The reaction she got was unexpected for her too.
In 2019, MOM MOM member Hwasa made news with her “without a bra” watch as he walked through Incheon International Airport after attending the SBSThe Hong Kong “Super Concert”.
While Korean women showered Hwasa with overwhelming support, the Korean media scandalized her fashion choice and made it into a major event. “problem” for the idol. Thrown into the spotlight, Hwasa received some criticism, as bralessness was (and still is to some extent) frowned upon in Korean culture.
Hwasa Shows Up At Airport Without Bra, K-Netizens Show Their Support
Years later, in the last episode of YouTube channel Studio SuzeThe series is hosted by a television personality Jang Sung KyuHwasa addressed the airport as “the most unexpected problem” that happened in his career.
Referring to the idol as a trendsetter, Jang first praised Hwasa for her undeniable ability to make anything go viral. When Jang asked if Hwasa had ever found herself in the middle of a scandal she didn’t see coming, Hwasa didn’t hesitate to refer to her airport look as her “no bra problem.”
Jang Sung Kyu: You are a natural entertainer. Everything you do becomes a hot topic… So, what is an unexpected issue that has come up?
Hwasa:The biggest was… You know.
January: What was it?
Hwasa: The bra issue no.
Hwasa explained that she doesn’t prefer to wear bras, and has never liked them, because they are uncomfortable and give her indigestion.
It gets really uncomfortable for me. When I wear a bra, I always feel so bloated after eating. I’ve had indigestion every day since I was little.
— Hwasa
Even when referring to her current appearance in 2024, Hwasa mentions that it is “Bad,” which provides broader context on how Korean culture and public opinion perceive bralessness.
Hwasa: The members used to freak out. They were like, “Hyejin, no! You can’t [go out without a bra]!” But I was wondering… How long should I keep wearing it? So, I decided to start not wearing it in more casual settings, where it’s okay. But… I didn’t know it was such a big problem. I didn’t know it was this serious.
January: It’s not bad!
Hwasa: But it was, then. Given the public perception at the time?
January: Ah, I see.
Hwasa:People are much more tolerant now.
As Hwasa explained, her classmates initially tried to stop her from going out without a bra, knowing the reaction it would cause. But when her airport look became a “problem,” members came forward and defended his choice 100%.
MAMAMOO defends Hwasa’s ‘no bra’ issue and ultimately protects her from unnecessary controversy
Watch the full episode below.
MOM MOM
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