Fashion magazine W Korea is subjected to careful scrutiny after its annual I love your W 2025 event, which was accused of downplaying breast cancer awareness in favor of a celebrity-filled “party.”
Held on October 15 to mark the campaign’s 20th anniversary, the event drew fierce criticism after being called a “breast cancer party”, sparking public outrage over its perceived insensitivity. Although originally promoted as a breast cancer awareness charity event, many netizens and media argued that it looked more like a glamorous celebrity gathering than a meaningful campaign.
“Just say it’s a party. Don’t disguise it as charity.” one commenter wrote below unrelated posts, as W Korea had blocked comments on its official apology post. This only fueled public anger.
In its belated statement on October 19, North Korea admitted: “There were concerns that the structure and delivery of the event was inappropriate in light of its intended purpose. We deeply apologize for any distress and distress this may have caused breast cancer patients and their families.”
“This is South Korea. Our “Love Your W” breast cancer awareness campaign began in 2006 and for the past 20 years has sought to raise awareness about the importance of early detection.
However, we recognize that the event held on October 15 was inappropriate in its planning and execution, considering the intent of the campaign. We accept criticism and are thinking deeply. We also apologize for not being more respectful of breast cancer patients and their families and for causing them pain and inconvenience. We are also truly sorry to have caused such scandal and distress to those who shared the purpose of the campaign and participated in it with good will.”
However, the apology lacked transparency, not answering questions about the alleged donation of KRW 11 billion ($8.1 million) over the past 20 years or revealing specific details of the donation.
Further exacerbating the reaction was the sudden deletion of Instagram posts by editor-in-chief Lee Hye-joo, who is also a board member of the Korea Breast Health Foundation, the same organization that receives W Koreais raising money. Netizens criticized his disappearance, stating: “Deleting posts one by one instead of taking responsibility? This is just comical cowardice.”
Unrelated posts, such as those featuring actress Hyeri, became collateral damage. Despite having no direct connection to the event, his painting received a wave of vitriolic comments: “Hyeri’s photos turned out great, but now the comments are ruined,” one user complained.
The controversy sheds light on the growing expectation that public figures and institutions handle sensitive topics like cancer awareness with the utmost sincerity. With the event now branded by many as a “hoax”, damage control by W Korea It seems far from finished.
As the scandal unfolds, many are watching to see if W Korea will provide a more transparent explanation or continue to remain silent behind blocked comments and deleted posts.
Sources: Star News, Instagram