aespa’s Karina draws debate over ultra-short pleated skirt at Japan fan meeting

aespa member Karina (카리나) has become a talking point again over her striking figure. At a recent fan meeting in Japan, she appeared in an ultra-short pleated skirt that showed off her toned, balanced legs. Videos from the event quickly spread online, reigniting discussion about body standards for idols.

aespa held its “MY CLASSMaeTE” fan meeting in Japan from the 18th to the 20th. The event had a school-themed concept, with the members taking the stage in student uniform-inspired looks. Karina wore a white shirt with a cropped blazer and an ultra-short pleated skirt. Although she wore safety shorts underneath, the skirt’s very short length stood out during the performance, drawing attention to her toned, muscular thighs.

Many fans said the outfit highlighted Karina’s healthy, well-proportioned physique, contrasting with the “extremely thin” beauty standard often discussed in K-pop in recent years. The look drew considerable praise.

Some online users, however, focused on the styling and said the skirt was too short. Comments included, “That skirt is really too short,” “Their skirts should be a bit longer,” “Why do they keep putting her in clothes this short?” and “What is going on with this skirt?”

More fans, meanwhile, praised Karina’s proportions, writing, “This is what a truly healthy body looks like,” “Karina is trending again because she’s so beautiful and charming,” “One of K-pop’s best figures,” and “Those legs are really so healthy and beautiful.”