Both embroiled in controversies due to “obscenity”, but BLACKPINK Jennie and MAMAMOO Hwasa have different endings.
There is a difference in reactions regarding two stars who have been embroiled in controversies due to explicit and sexual depictions. In particular, the perception towards BLACKPINK Jennie and MAMAMOO Hwasa, who are both under the spotlight for “obscenity”, seems to be different, to the point it poses an ironic “double standard”.
On June 22nd, the 5th episode of tvN’s “Dancing Queens on the Road” featured its fixed cast members, including singers Kim Wan Sun, Uhm Jung Hwa, Lee Hyori, Hwasa, and BoA, performing at University Festivals.
In particular, Hwasa took the stage at Sungkyunkwan University’s festival, where she performed a medley of MAMAMOO’s hit songs. However, due to Hwasa making an “obscene” gesture during the stage of her solo song, “Don’t”, the performance was edited and that particular scene was not broadcasted.
Hwasa’s performance of “Don’t” was actually pre-released through platforms like YouTube, capturing public attention. Here, the female idol spread her legs, licked her fingers, and used them to touch a certain part of her body, evoking sexual imagery.
As a result, the public criticized Hwasa’s performance as excessively provocative and raised concerns about the negative influence it could have on underage fans. Although Hwasa expressed herself freely on stage as an idol, the public questioned whether she should have crossed the line of explicitness, considering her influence.
Hwasa has not made any specific statements regarding the controversy and appears to be unconcerned. In fact, at a recent concert of MAMAMOO’s World Tour, Hwasa continues to showcase her “unique artistry” by wearing provocative outfits and exposing herself.
On the other hand, BLACKPINK Jennie made her acting debut in the HBO drama “The Idol”, and received criticism due to having somewhat explicit scenes. In the series, Jennie wore revealing costumes, one of which exposed a significant part of her chest, and performed choreography that evoked sexual images while being in close contact with male dancers. Additionally, there was a scene where the female idol asked the male lead, “Is she a better f*ck than me?”, drawing attention.
Some fans complained about why Jennie, who has built a luxurious image called “Human Chanel,” made her acting debut in such a role. Some pointed out that this performance could instill a poorly curated, sexual image of Jennie into global fans.
However, there seems to be a shift in perspective concerning the controversy over Jennie’s sensationalism, as the foreign media are focusing on elevating the significance of her acting debut. A column from Forbes remarked that Jennie should continue pursuing acting and push for a role in the silver screen thanks to “versatile” acting skills and “captivating presence.” In addition, the article also expressed that Jennie’s performance on “The idol” could bring her a nomination at the Emmys.
The New York Times also highlighted Jennie’s presence and said that Dyanne, Jennie’s role, outshone other characters and stole the limelight. In response, the Korean media is going along with what international media is saying and starting to praise Jennie. At the moment, it seems Jennie’s case of “sensational controversy” is fading, unlike that of Hwasa.
Therefore, on social media, netizens begin to question whether there is an unrecognized prejudice in the double standards for the two female artists.
Source: Daum
