In K-pop, sexy isn’t just about skin. It’s a marketing weapon, a statement of power, and a controversy magnet — and for some idols, it’s why fans are paying double for front-row concert seats.
1. Lisa (BLACKPINK)
From 2023 to 2025, Lisa went full throttle into a bold, hyper-sexualized image that took over social media. Her performances, clips, and TikToks—tight outfits, high-slit dresses, and seductive choreography—spread like wildfire.
The hashtag #LisaSexy trended repeatedly, but so did the backlash. Critics accused her of crossing the fine line between artistic and tacky. Even longtime fans started voicing discomfort, saying the focus on sex appeal was drowning out her actual talent.
2. Jennie (BLACKPINK)
Jennie used to be all about the elegant “it-girl” vibe in BLACKPINK. In the 2023 MV You & Me, she served vintage glam with corsets and fur coats—Vogue Runway even called it a “modern sensual redefinition of classic beauty.”
But 2024–2025 marked a clear pivot. Suddenly Jennie was leaning into body-hugging fits, sultry dance moves, and a stage presence that screamed sex appeal. Fans who preferred her classy image were… not thrilled.
3. HyunA
HyunA didn’t just push the boundaries—she lit a match and danced over them. Her MVs Red (2014) and Lip & Hip (2017) got slapped with 18+ warnings right out the gate.
In Waterbomb Seoul 2023, she hit the stage in a metallic bikini, grinding through a borderline NSFW set that set Korean media ablaze. According to Korea JoongAng Daily, HyunA has never backed down from her “rebel goddess” status, even under the industry’s intense censorship.
4. Yunjin (LE SSERAFIM)
Huh Yunjin’s brand of sexy isn’t just sexy—it’s curated rebellion. Think feminist edge with corporate gloss. In the 2024 MV Easy, she’s decked out in leather, filmed from low angles, staring down the camera like a K-drama villain with perfect timing.
Her 2023 MAMA stage earned her the title “most addictive stage presence,” according to Dispatch—though whether that’s thanks to her acting or her company’s timing is up for debate. It’s sexy, but pre-packaged.
5. Yuna (ITZY)
During a “Music Bank” performance in 2021, Yuna appeared in a daring and form-fitting outfit, sparking a wave of criticism from the online community. At just 17, fans believed that JYP Entertainment had failed to protect her image, instead exploiting her appearance to attract attention.
6. NewJeans
NewJeans isn’t traditionally sexy, but they’ve sparked constant debate over “prematurely grown-up” visuals. From Cookie to ETA, the group faced criticism for dressing members aged 15–17 in crop tops, ultra-mini skirts, and hip-focused choreography paired with flirtatious expressions.
The phrase too grown, too fast has stuck to them—not by their choice, but through how their agency built the concept. Still, their Y2K styling, viral fancams, and TikTok-friendly choreography made them a Gen Z obsession. Sexy or not, they’ve mastered the art of selling teen appeal under a nostalgic retro filter.
7. Hwasa (MAMAMOO)
Hwasa’s sexiness comes from power, not packaging. After facing heat for wearing a bodysuit at Waterbomb Busan 2023, she told Harper’s Bazaar Korea: “I wear what makes me feel strong.”
That confidence turned her into a feminist symbol who didn’t fit into K-pop’s usual dainty mold. She’s never been everyone’s cup of tea, but she’s always been in control of her image—and that’s hot, period.
8. Hayun (Girl Crush)
Hayun might be underground, but her sexy stage presence hits mainstream like a truck. She performs at clubs and outdoor festivals wearing bikinis, fishnets, and sheer mesh that leave nothing to the imagination.
Known on Korean YouTube as the “sexy idol underground queen,” Hayun’s fancams have blown past 100 million views as of June 2025, according to KpopRadar. Straight up: she’s a baddie doing it her way.
9. Jessi
Jessi doesn’t play by idol rules—she torches the whole playbook. With a swagger-heavy hip-hop image and zero-filter lyrics, she’s always gone full-send with sex appeal.
In her Down (2018) MV, she wore bikinis on a California beach like she was filming a Miami rap video. As she told GQ Korea, “I’m not trying to be an idol—I’m Jessi.” No pretense. No sugar-coating. Just raw confidence.
10. Seolhyun (AOA)
Back in AOA’s prime (2014–2016), Seolhyun was the gold standard of “sexy but brand-safe.” Her hourglass figure and signature hip moves in MVs like Miniskirt and Heart Attack made her the face of K-pop’s clean-cut sex appeal.
In 2016, she topped the list of Korea’s most in-demand female endorsers (per Korea Broadcast Advertising Corp)—all thanks to her ability to look seductive without ever crossing into scandal. Basically, she was the safe bet for brands looking to cash in.
