Red Velvet leader Irene has ignited a lively discussion online after an unedited photograph of her surfaced, showcasing her skin in its natural state. The image, which has gained significant traction on the South Korean online community platform Pann, features Irene’s face in high resolution without any visible retouching. This has led to a mix of admiration and criticism from netizens regarding beauty standards in the entertainment industry.
Unfiltered Image Gains Attention
The now-viral photo presents Irene with smooth skin and no apparent blemishes, prompting many fans to celebrate her natural beauty. As the photo circulated, comments praising her appearance flooded in, with many expressing admiration for her skin quality. One user remarked, “Even when I was in high school, I saw posts like ‘Irene will be 30 next year.’ Back then or now, she’s always been consistently beautiful.”
Despite the overwhelming praise, opinions quickly became polarized. Some users began to comment on her age, which they claimed made her appear “aged” in the photo. The original poster (OP) suggested that Irene is 36 years old, a claim that has drawn backlash since Irene was born in 1991 and is set to turn 35 in March 2026. Critics accused the OP of attempting to provoke negative comments about the idol.
Divided Reactions Reflect Ongoing Beauty Standards
Responses to the post have highlighted the ongoing tension surrounding beauty standards in the K-pop industry. While many expressed admiration for Irene’s timeless appeal, others made remarks that were less flattering. Comments such as “She looks old” and “She looks aged” contrasted sharply with others that celebrated her beauty, with one user stating, “Honestly, she’s really freaking pretty.” The discord among commenters illustrates the complex expectations placed on female idols.
Despite the mixed reviews, the post has continued to gain views, solidifying Irene’s status as a significant figure within the idol scene. Her ability to generate discussion surrounding beauty and age may reflect broader societal attitudes, particularly in a culture where aging is often viewed negatively.
This incident serves as a reminder of the scrutiny faced by public figures and the impact of social media on perceptions of beauty. As the discourse continues, it will be interesting to observe how this affects Irene’s image and the broader conversation around aging in the entertainment industry.