ILLIT has directly addressed the controversy surrounding the costumes for their new title track “You’re Under Arrest,” speaking about the issue at the media showcase for their 5th mini-album BREAK EVEN on October 26 at Blue Square Woori WON Banking Hall in Seoul.
ILLIT (Credits: Koreaboo)
The group first revealed the “You’re Under Arrest” stage at their encore concert PRESS START, held at Incheon Inspire Arena on October 17 and 18. The electro-pop track, built around a catchy hook and a recurring whistle sound, quickly drew attention — but so did the outfits, which some critics said sexualized female police officers by pairing police-style uniforms with knee socks and miniskirts.
ILLIT’s Yunah Responds to Costume Controversy
Asked about the criticism at the showcase, member Yunah said the group was happy and surprised by the strong interest after first revealing the stage during their tour. “We are grateful for any kind of attention to our performance,” she said.
Yunah added that, as seen in the music video, the “You’re Under Arrest” stage is based on a black agent concept, and the group plans to show various styles in their remaining performances. She asked fans to keep watching what comes next.
The response stops short of a detailed rebuttal, instead reframing the stage concept and pointing to the variety still to come. It is a measured answer to a debate that has split online reaction since the encore concert reveal, with the group’s showcase appearance giving them their first direct chance to address it in person.
With BREAK EVEN now officially launched, attention shifts to how the remaining “You’re Under Arrest” stages present the concept — and whether the promised variety of styles changes the conversation around the costumes.
Also Read: ILLIT’s Encore Concert Empty Seats Spark Debate Over Group’s Domestic Popularity and ILLIT’s Wonhee Performs Through Bleeding Knee at Encore Concert, Fans Split Between Praise and Concern
Source: Koreaboo — read the full story there.
