Actress Kim Yoo-jung sparked intense online debates with her red carpet appearance at the 2025 Busan International Film Festival on September 17. She wore a navy gown with an extremely high slit and black boots, a dramatic departure from her previous styles. While some praised her bold fashion choice, many netizens criticized the outfit for being overly mature and mismatched with her youthful public image.
The Red Carpet Moment
Kim Yoo-jung attended the festival’s opening ceremony in a long, draped navy dress made from a thin, flowing material. The dress featured a dramatic slit that extended up to her waistline, revealing the side of her hips. She paired it with rugged black heeled boots and opted for a wet hair look with bangs and heavy makeup. The overall ensemble aimed to make a strong statement but received mixed responses from viewers and fashion critics.
Netizens’ Mixed Reactions
Online communities like TheQoo were flooded with comments shortly after her appearance. Many expressed disappointment, noting that the outfit seemed better suited for an older actress. Some compared her styling to veteran actress Kim Hye Soo, suggesting that the mature look didn’t align with Kim Yoo-jung’s age or typical style. One netizen remarked:
“It looks like a kid wearing her mom’s clothes with makeup to look older.”
Others criticized her hair and boots, calling them unflattering and poorly coordinated. However, a minority defended her choice, applauding her confidence and willingness to experiment with new styles.
Styling Choices and Public Image
Kim Yoo-jung began her career as a child actress and has been gradually transitioning into more mature roles. This red carpet look was seen by some as an attempt to shed her “nation’s little sister” image. However, the outfit’s boldness—particularly the high slit and sheer fabric—raised questions about whether the styling aligned with her natural charm and public persona.
Comparisons to Other Celebrities
Other actresses at the event, including Han So-hee and Son Ye-jin, also chose bold outfits, but Kim Yoo-jung’s look stood out as the most controversial. Some netizens pointed out that male celebrities wore traditional suits, while female stars opted for more revealing attire, leading to discussions about double standards in red carpet fashion.
Industry Perspectives
Fashion critics noted that the combination of a sleek dress with bulky boots created a jarring effect. The dress itself was designed with a draped top and long sleeves, which contrasted sharply with the aggressive slit and heavy footwear. While the intent might have been to blend elegance with edge, the execution divided opinions.
Kim Yoo-jung’s Recent Work
The actress recently starred in the drama Dear X, where she plays a complex celebrity character. Her red carpet appearance coincided with promotions for this new role, which marks a significant shift from her previous innocent and sweet on-screen personas.
Social Media Response
On social media platforms, fans and critics alike shared screenshots and opinions about her look. Some appreciated her daring approach, while others expressed concern that the outfit overshadowed her natural beauty. The hashtag #KimYooJungBIFF trended briefly, with users debating whether the style was a fashion risk or a misstep.
Background on the Event
The Busan International Film Festival is one of Asia’s most significant film events, showcasing movies from around the world. The 2025 edition featured 328 films from 64 countries, with screenings taking place until September 26. The red carpet is a highlight of the festival, where celebrities often showcase high-fashion looks.
Past Fashion Choices
Kim Yoo-jung has previously been praised for her red carpet appearances, often choosing elegant and age-appropriate outfits. Her shift to a more daring style at this event surprised many, leading to speculation about her evolving fashion preferences and career direction.
Public and Media Expectations
The strong reactions to her outfit reflect broader public and media expectations regarding how young female stars should present themselves. While fashion is a form of self-expression, celebrities like Kim Yoo-jung often face scrutiny when their choices deviate from traditional norms.
The Role of Stylists
Many comments online questioned the decisions of her styling team, asking who was responsible for the look. Netizens wondered if the outfit was a deliberate attempt to generate buzz or if it was a misjudgment. Stylists play a crucial role in curating celebrity images, and their choices are often dissected publicly.
Kim Yoo-jung’s Silence
As of now, Kim Yoo-jung has not publicly addressed the backlash or comments about her red carpet appearance. She has continued to engage in festival activities and promote her upcoming projects without directly referencing the controversy.
Global Fashion Trends
The outfit aligns with global trends that mix elegant dresses with edgy elements like boots. However, the execution at high-profile events can polarize audiences, especially when the celebrity’s existing image doesn’t seamlessly match the new style.
The Impact on Her Career
While the look sparked controversy, it also kept Kim Yoo-jung in the headlines, highlighting the often fine line between criticism and visibility in the entertainment industry. Fashion risks can sometimes enhance a star’s relevance, even if the immediate feedback is mixed.
Fan Support
Despite the criticism, many fans expressed support for Kim Yoo-jung, emphasizing that her talent and personality matter more than any single outfit. They praised her for taking risks and reminded others that fashion is subjective.
Also Read: Son Ye-jin, Han So-hee, Kim Yoo-jung and More Turn Heads in Bold Outfits on BIFF 2025 Red Carpet
Credits: Netizenbuzz
