aespa’s Karina finally broke her silence on the political controversy sparked by her wearing a red jacket with the number “2” this summer.
In a recent variety show, Karina explained why she wore the jacket and posted the photo on Instagram. She admitted she was ignorant for causing the scandal and viral speculation. She apologized to fans and anyone hurt by the incident. Karina also said she felt terrible for dragging the other three aespa members into the issue.
Karina’s explanation clip went viral instantly. A post on TheQoo hit over 85,000 views within an hour and got more than 2,000 comments. Some netizens accepted her apology and moved on.
“I admitted to feeling ignorant for causing the scandal and viral speculations, apologized to fans and everyone who was hurt once again, and even mentioned how terrible I felt when the other three aespa members were caught up in the issue as well.” – Karina
However, many remain disappointed. Criticism targets her late response and initial actions after the photo went viral. Some questioned why she only addressed it months later.
“Back then she didn’t even explain properly and showed up at the award show laughing and acting playful. Now she says all this?…”
“Why bring this up again now…?”
“If it really wasn’t what people thought, you should’ve clarified that then.”
Others defended her handling compared to other idols.
“Compared to other idols who get heat even for holding up one V-finger and explain themselves with full energy, she really handled it way differently lol.”
The controversy around Karina’s jacket post continues to divide fans and netizens alike.
