As the photo posted by aespa member Karina on social media sparked controversy over political implications, she deleted it.
On the 27th, Karina shared a photo taken in Japan on her Instagram along with a rose emoji.
In the photo, Karina was wearing a white dress and a black jumper with a red number 2 printed on it.
Some netizens, upon seeing the photo, linked Karina's outfit to the presidential election and commented, 'Patriotic conservative Karina' and 'Karina is number 2.'
As the photo and comments spread across online communities, there were reactions suggesting that Karina was not careful regarding the presidential election. Some netizens criticized her, noting, 'She should have been more cautious during such a sensitive time' and 'Celebrities usually tread carefully during elections.' On the other hand, some responses indicated, 'It's tiring to interpret everything politically.'
As the post became controversial, Karina deleted it.
Celebrities often exercise caution regarding their clothing, hairstyle colors, hand gestures, and backgrounds when taking pictures for voting certification or during elections to avoid political interpretations.
Earlier on the 26th, ZEROBASEONE member Kim Tae-rae made a V pose ahead of the presidential election but noted, 'Because of the (election) season, the agency said I shouldn't do the V sign. I will neutralize it with the blue color of my phone,' while holding up a blue phone as he reposted a photo making the V sign. However, the photo was later deleted.