Eunha (Jung Eun-bi), born in 1997 and currently a member of the K-pop group VIVIZ, was once known during her GFRIEND days as the epitome of purity and innocence, often described as Korea’s princess-like idol. However, since re-debuting with VIVIZ, she has boldly transformed her image, embracing a more mature, modern, and alluring style.
From spaghetti-strap dresses and crop tops to daring stage costumes that stirred heated debates, Eunha has marked a dramatic shift from her once sweet, youthful image to that of a confident and captivating artist.
A Shift in Style
Since VIVIZ’s debut in early 2022, Eunha has deliberately transitioned from the innocent, girlish concepts of her past toward a more sophisticated and sensual presentation.
In the music video for Bop Bop! (2022), she showcased her versatility by embodying two distinct styles: from a playful, youthful look in a gradient white-and-purple Chet Lo top paired with a bandage skirt by Gauntlett Cheng (priced between 297 to 555 USD), to a chic all-black ensemble featuring The Attico’s pointed leather belt and 3D-printed earrings by Roussey (priced between 75 to 349 USD).
This evolution in style reflects a broader trend among female K-pop idols: as they reach a more mature stage in their careers, they often assert greater control over their artistic identity and public image. A similar case is Yujin (IVE), who sparked debate in December 2021 when she wore a bra top layered over a T-shirt on stage at Show! Music Core at the age of 18, or Lisa (BLACKPINK), who transitioned from the cute debut concept to a confident, sensual style in her solo releases like LALISA and Money.
The Outfit Controversy
Just months after VIVIZ’s debut, Eunha sparked her first major controversy in July 2022 when she performed on stage in a particularly revealing outfit. Many fans likened the costume to “lingerie” due to its bold and skin-baring design, a stark departure from the wholesome image she had maintained during her GFRIEND years.
The incident quickly became a hot topic across online forums and social media platforms such as X (Twitter) and Nate Pann (판네이트). Longtime fans expressed surprise and concern, criticizing the drastic nature of the change and accusing the stylist of pushing the transformation too far. Some argued that the outfit was inappropriate for a music show stage and could negatively impact Eunha’s public image.
On the other hand, international fans highlighted that all three members of VIVIZ are grown women in their late 20s, with nearly a decade of experience in the industry, and fully capable of making their own choices about how they present themselves. They argued that imposing restrictions on the wardrobe of mature female artists is an outdated and unnecessary form of control.
Supporters further emphasized that since VIVIZ parted ways with Source Music and now operates more independently under BPM Entertainment, the members should have the freedom to explore and express their artistic identities without being bound by their past images.
The debate underscores a deeper cultural divide between Korean and international audiences when it comes to the perception and acceptance of female idols’ self-expression.
