[Focus+] Who Is Stirring Controversy Over Song Ji-hyo's Short Hair 'Transformation'?

Photo by 2021AAA

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Isul] A farcical situation is unfolding where some fans are demanding explanations from the agency over actress Song Ji-hyo's short haircut transformation, using their fandom as a pretext for 'gapjil' (abuse of power).

Song Ji-hyo appeared with short hair on the SBS variety show 'Running Man' aired on the 28th of last month. She had recently surprised fans by revealing photos of her short haircut transformation on her social network service (SNS), drawing attention. The new style was first unveiled on the broadcast.

The 'Running Man' members also showed interest in Song Ji-hyo's transformation during the opening. One member asked, "Did you cut it for a project?" Another member responded, "Your face is not affected by the hairstyle at all," and "It suits you well." Some members even mentioned celebrities she resembled, turning it into a source of humor on the show, but overall, the reactions were fairly moderate.

The most important thing is Song Ji-hyo's attitude toward this. She clearly stated that she changed her style by her own will, not out of regret or because she had no choice due to a project.

Everyone has the right to change their style as they wish. Except for unavoidable cases due to characters in works, celebrities are no different. No matter how much they live off public popularity, no one can force a specific image on them.

However, the DC Inside gallery for Song Ji-hyo posted a statement on the 29th of last month, the day after the 'Running Man' broadcast. In the statement, fans urged improvements in Song Ji-hyo's styling (hair, makeup, clothing), saying, "Since last year, negative articles about Song Ji-hyo's styling have frequently appeared on portals, and she has been repeatedly mentioned as a celebrity with disappointing styling in online communities," and "We have reached the conclusion that we can no longer stand by," demanding a statement from the agency.

Debates continue over these extreme demands from fans. Some call it a 'controversy,' seemingly fueling the dispute. The term 'controversy' can be used when conflicting claims are based on reasonable logic. However, since these are merely claims related to some fans' preferences, the prevailing view is that calling it a controversy is not justified.

Whether it's a short haircut or a shaved head, does anyone have the right or qualification to throw stones at a style they don't like? Even if they have been fans for a long time.

Of course, the desire for a beloved actor to look cooler and shine brighter is understandable. It can be seen as support and encouragement for the actor's growth. But this time is different. The unilateral criticism without reasonably presenting why the short haircut is a problem or providing evidence for the ongoing styling issues claimed before is problematic. Excessive fandom is a form of 'gapjil' (abuse of power).

Recently, some have shown immature attitudes by applying extreme frames to female actors' short haircuts and criticizing them. There is also a perspective that this overlaps with the 'strange behavior' of immediately suspecting some female actors who transformed to short haircuts of holding certain beliefs and demanding proof that they do not.

Have fans ever issued statements about male actors' long hair? It is regrettable that there is a particularly strict standard applied to female actors' appearances.

At the '2021 AAA' held on the 2nd, host Leeteuk applauded Song Ji-hyo's hairstyle, saying, "It suits you well." Song Ji-hyo's short haircut, revealing her forehead that day, shone exceptionally stylishly. Some may feel disappointed, but to others, it can appear as "it suits you well." It is simply a matter of 'taste.'

I want to ask Song Ji-hyo and her agency to 'remain silent.' I hope they listen to the voices of fans who cheer that the short haircut is very stylish. Do not be bothered by a controversy that is not really a controversy, and there are many voices wishing for her to spread her wings as an even more wonderful actress.