Karina wears a jacket that stirs controversy over political symbolism

Karina wore a jacket that sparked widespread debate about political symbolism during South Korea’s election season. Online communities split between support and criticism, interpreting her outfit as a political statement. Some defended her, citing past abuse, while others questioned the timing and message of the post.

Karina wears a jacket that triggers debate on political symbolism

Karina from the girl group aespa posted a photo on Instagram on May 27. She appeared in a street scene in Japan, wearing a red-and-black jacket with the number “2” in red. She also added a rose emoji to the post. Coincidentally, South Korea is in the midst of a presidential election season. The vote will take place on June 3, 2025. The jacket’s color and the number led to speculation that she might support the People Power Party. That party’s official color is red, and its ballot number is 2.

Online communities respond with mixed views on Karina post

The post quickly spread online with the title “Karina’s Recent Photo.” Some netizens speculated that she supports the People Power Party. Online reactions were sharply divided. In FMKorea, a mostly male community, comments praised Karina. Users called her an “admirable conservative” and said they had become her fans. In contrast, the women-centered community theqoo responded negatively. Over 1,700 comments criticized her. Many claimed her outfit clearly showed support for the People Power Party. theqoo is known for its strong opposition to that party, especially from radical feminists.

Karina becomes a symbol as her jacket suggests political meaning

Despite the backlash, some voices on theqoo defended Karina. They argued she is the real victim and shouldn’t be attacked. This defense links to a past incident of verbal sexual abuse against her. Lee Dong-ho, son of opposition candidate Lee Jae-myung, once made sexually explicit and abusive comments online about Karina. Her defenders say supporting the rival People Power Party is understandable. They view her outfit not as a political statement, but as a reaction to personal harm.

The Timing of the Post Fuels Speculation

Some users on MLBPARK highlighted the timing of Karina’s post. On May 27, a live presidential debate aired on Korean TV. During the debate, candidate Lee Jun-seok mentioned the verbal abuse against Karina. Shortly afterward, she posted the controversial photo. This led some to believe the post was a subtle response. The caption, “Wale The Sage – Don’t Remind Me,” added to the theory. Supporters say Karina was expressing discomfort with the renewed attention and her distaste for the abuser.

Karina faces pressure as political symbolism clouds public reaction

In South Korea, idols are expected to remain publicly neutral in politics. Expressing support for any side usually leads to severe backlash from the other. For idols, staying quiet is often the safest choice. Yet Karina’s situation may be different. As a victim of online abuse, she may have felt the need to respond, even indirectly. Now, some believe society must shift focus to protecting victims like Karina instead of punishing them for their reactions.

A Life-Size Cutout Featuring Karina Was Stolen from an MLB Store

A life-size cutout of Karina was stolen from a Malaysian MLB store, prompting an official response. The thief’s bold act and the staff’s delayed pursuit stirred humorous and critical reactions online.

Here’s a link to theqoo. Here’s a link to MLBPARK.

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