A life-size cutout featuring Karina was taken from an MLB store in Malaysia, shocking both staff and onlookers. CCTV footage captured the thief confidently grabbing the cutout and fleeing as employees gave chase. The incident spread online, prompting official statements and sparking amusement, debate, and curiosity from fans.
Life-Size Cutout of Karina Stolen from Malaysia Store
In Malaysia, a surprising theft took place at an MLB clothing store. A man stole a life-size cutout of Karina, a member of the K-pop group aespa. The incident occurred on May 23, and CCTV footage soon spread online through X (formerly Twitter) and other platforms. In the video, the man enters the store with a hood over his head and walks confidently inside. After spotting the cutout, he grabs it without hesitation and runs off. The footage also shows store employees reacting in disbelief and quickly chasing after him.
Viral Spread and Reactions to the Cutout Theft
The video quickly went viral, not just in Malaysia but also across Korean social media platforms. Viewers responded with a mix of shock and amusement at the thief’s confidence. Many commented, “This is both absurd and funny,” and “He just grabbed it and bolted, even with staff watching.” The moment when employees belatedly chased the man added to the comedy. Their frantic movements and the sheer unexpectedness of the act turned the scene into an internet sensation.
MLB Responds to Incident Involving Karina and Life-Size Cutout
As the footage gained attention, MLB Malaysia released an official statement addressing the situation. The company acknowledged that the Karina life-size cutout had been removed without permission from their store. They thanked the public for their interest and stated that all displays within the store are the property of MLB. These materials are placed for customers to enjoy responsibly. MLB added that they are currently reviewing the incident internally and urged people to respect store property.
Karina’s Role in MLB Promotions Across Southeast Asia
Karina of aespa has been serving as MLB’s official ambassador since May 8. The brand praised her influence in fashion and culture, calling her a perfect match for their vintage streetwear theme. MLB opened its first offline store in Malaysia in January 2023 and has continued expanding across Southeast Asia. Promotional materials featuring Karina, including life-size cutouts and advertising displays, have been used in campaigns throughout Asia, especially in Korea and Malaysia.
Legal Concerns Over Theft of Life-Size Cutout
Removing the cutout without permission could be treated as a theft under Malaysian law. Since the life-size cutout is store property, the man’s actions may qualify as a violation of criminal code. Section 379 of the Malaysian Penal Code states that theft from a public place can result in up to seven years of imprisonment or a fine. Although it is difficult to assign a precise value to the cutout, its status as store-owned promotional material makes legal consequences likely if the suspect is caught.
theqoo Users Share Reactions and Thoughts on Karina and Life-Size Cutout
News of the incident reached the Korean online community theqoo, where users reacted with both laughter and intrigue. Many found it hilarious that the man ran off with the cutout in full view of the employees. One user joked, “He acted like it was his,” while others laughed at how uncoordinated the staff seemed in chasing him. Some questioned whether the man had been caught. Others pointed out that because idol cutouts are hard to appraise, even if caught, the penalty might be minimal. Several users mentioned that stores often don’t report these cases for that reason.
Interestingly, many theqoo users admitted they had once wished to take a life-size cutout of their favorite idols. While few would actually act on it, some confessed they would love to receive such items after a campaign ended. Others shared stories of successfully acquiring banners or cutouts after events. One person had turned an old idol concert banner into a tote bag and even a dog cushion. Many agreed that the man in the video should have waited and chosen a wiser, legal option.

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Wait, Koreans can actually legally get Karina life-size cutouts in stores?! That’s so jelly.