(G)I-DLE Almost Fined 10 Million Won Over Stage Costumes

Unauthorized Use of Red Cross Logo on 'Lifeguard' Shirts
Using Red Cross Emblem Without Approval Violates Current Law

Girl group (G)I-DLE, currently promoting their new song "Klaxon," is facing controversy for wearing stage costumes featuring the Korean Red Cross logo. Unauthorized use of the Red Cross emblem is a violation of current law.

On the 19th, (G)I-DLE appeared on KBS2's "Music Bank" performing "Klaxon" dressed in lifeguard-themed outfits. The short crop tops they wore prominently displayed the phrase "LIFE GUARD" along with the Red Cross emblem. The members also posted group photos wearing the same outfits on the social networking service X (formerly Twitter).

(G)I-DLE is facing controversy over stage costumes that used the Red Cross emblem without permission. [Image source=(G)I-DLE social media (SNS) capture]

According to Article 25 of the Korean Red Cross Organization Act (Prohibition on Use of Red Cross Emblems), only the Red Cross, military medical institutions, or those authorized by the Red Cross may use the Red Cross emblem for business or promotional purposes. Violations can result in fines of up to 10 million KRW. Netizens also criticized (G)I-DLE's unauthorized use of the emblem on online communities, commenting, "Hospitals and pharmacies use green crosses instead of red ones," "Even if the members didn’t know, it’s problematic that the agency was unaware," "How can they wear revealing outfits with such a mark?" and "Beyond the emblem, it seems like they are sexualizing a specific profession (lifeguards), which is unpleasant to see."

Regarding this matter, a Korean Red Cross official stated, "We have not received any approval inquiries from the agency regarding the use of the emblem," adding, "It seems they used it unknowingly without intent." The official further explained, "If used intentionally, deliberately, or repeatedly, the Ministry of Justice or Ministry of Health and Welfare can impose fines or penalties," and said, "We will verify the details and contact the agency to request measures to prevent recurrence."

(G)I-DLE’s agency, Cube Entertainment, has not made any significant statement so far, only saying they are "checking the situation with relevant internal departments." (G)I-DLE is a five-member multinational girl group that debuted in May 2018.