aespa Karina is facing backlash after her 2025 WATERBOMB festival outfit leaked online—well before the show. The preview, leaked by an official source (possibly the event organizers or the outfit maker), quickly spread on Nate Pann.
Fans immediately recognized the outfit. It’s the same look Karina wore in her Sprite commercials. Since Sprite sponsors the festival, it’s no surprise she’ll reuse the outfit. Still, netizens slammed both the leak and the recycled costume choice.
Critics pointed out odd styling choices:
“Why did they cover her belly? Makes it look stuffy.”
“Are they recycling the outfit she wore in the commercial?”
“It’s the same outfit as in the Sprite commercial.”
“I don’t understand that pocket-like thingy on stage costumes, maybe it was added because the shorts were too short.”
This isn’t the first time WATERBOMB organizers have been criticized over Karina. Earlier, netizens expressed horror after the festival used a deepfake of aespa Karina in promos.
The controversy is gaining traction as fans and observers keep a close eye on the festival’s handling of Karina’s image and styling. No official comment yet from the event or SM Entertainment.
