Social networking platform Instagram recently changed the aspect ratio of feed photos displayed in user profiles. Previously set to a 1:1 square frame, photos now display at a 4:3 aspect ratio.
This update was not applied universally but only to select accounts, leading to unintended consequences.
In particular, the update has changed the layout of the profiles of idol accounts and brands that rely heavily on Instagram for promotional purposes. It has become a popular trend to arrange photos in a mosaic format on profiles, creating one large unified image when clicked.
However, due to the update, these profiles now appear distorted, with images stretched or cropped strangely.
As a result, K-pop stars such as aespa, NCT WISH, BLACKPINK, EXO’s IVE and Chanyeol, (G)I-DLE, VIVIZ and others have encountered problems. In some cases, members’ faces or body parts appear cut off, creating unwanted comical effects.
Singer Bae Jin-young, formerly of Wanna One, also ran into problems after fixing a mosaic-style profile photo, which now appears distorted, with his arms missing. This incident even turned into a meme among netizens, drawing sympathy for the social media managers tasked with maintaining these accounts.
Currently, many accounts have started to change their profile feeds to align with the new aspect ratio or have deleted old photos altogether. However, some accounts remain in their distorted state.
In a recent live broadcast, Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri explained the reasoning behind the update, stating: “Most content is now created vertically and square cropping reduces its appeal.”
Despite this logic, negative user reaction is growing. Debates about the need and impact of the upgrade are likely to continue for the foreseeable future.
