Getty Images, known as the world’s largest online image service, has long been the silent nemesis of celebrities, especially at major events. Unlike photos taken by fans or retouched by the press, Getty’s shots are raw, brutally high-resolution and often merciless. Over the years, numerous stars have found their unfiltered images under intense public scrutiny due to Getty’s no-edit policy.
The latest celebrity to fall under what netizens are calling the “destroyer’s lens” is none other than Irene, the leader of Red Velvet and one of South Korea’s most celebrated images. On the evening of December 19, Koreaboo reported that Irene had become the center of a heated online debate after a Getty image of her taken at a public event went viral on Korean forums.
In the photo, Irene dazzled with her signature clear, glowing skin, but her overall look drew mixed reactions. Some fans praised his gorgeous aura and insisted that he had “conquered the demon lens.” Others, however, said the image revealed signs of aging and tiredness, arguing that she no longer embodied the flawless look she was once known for.
“I’ve seen posts about her turning 30 since I was in high school, and she’s still beautiful,” one fan wrote. “She looks older now,” another commented. “Honestly, she’s so beautiful I can’t even speak,” said another, while skeptics chimed in: “You can clearly see the signs of aging.”
This is one of the rare occasions where Irene has faced criticism regarding her appearance, something she has long been celebrated for. For years, audiences have showered her with praise, often calling her one of the most beautiful idols in K-pop history. Her elegance and poise have made her a favorite on red carpets, in fashion editorials and in brand campaigns.
Born in 1991 and known by her real name Bae Joo-hyun, Irene debuted as the leader of Red Velvet in 2014 under SM Entertainment. She quickly rose to stardom, becoming an icon of third-generation K-pop imagery. Aside from music, Irene has also ventured into acting, gaining attention for her performances in indie and drama projects, cementing her multifaceted presence in the world of entertainment.
Despite recent debate, Irene remains a mainstay of K-pop visual culture, and her career, spanning over a decade, continues to thrive in both performance and public recognition.
