Even in periods without group promotions, aespa’s Karina remains one of K-pop’s most talked-about idols.
Recently, she found herself at the center of an online debate after photos and clips from her Weverse livestreams, showing her with little to no makeup, began circulating — igniting discussions about her natural appearance.
The Viral Post That Sparked Controversy
A trending post on Pann, a popular South Korean online forum, accused Karina of looking “ordinary” without her signature stage makeup.
The post read,
“Karina really needs full stage makeup. She looks stunning when she’s fully glammed up, but when her makeup is lighter, she just looks like a regular person.”
The statement quickly gained traction, sparking mixed reactions among Korean netizens.
While some agreed, many others condemned the post as unnecessarily harsh and rooted in unrealistic beauty standards — especially for female idols who are constantly under public scrutiny.
aespa’s Karina (Credit: YouTube)
Netizens Rush to Karina’s Defence
Fans and netizens alike rallied to defend Karina, emphasizing her natural beauty and effortless charm.
They reminded others of her famous SM Entertainment audition story, where she reportedly passed after being asked to wash off all her makeup — a testament to her raw visuals. One top comment on Pann stated,
“Even barefaced, Karina’s still pretty. Her delicate and balanced features make her natural look quietly beautiful.”
Another added,
“FYI: Some Pann girls didn’t even pass the SM audition after sending heavily edited photos, but Karina got in after showing her bare face.”
Many pointed out that Karina’s softer, unfiltered appearance revealed a different type of beauty — one that feels more relatable, gentle, and elegant.
Timing Raises Questions About Envy
Several commenters questioned the timing of the hate post, which appeared shortly after Karina’s appointment as Chanel Beauty’s newest ambassador. Some netizens speculated that jealousy might have motivated the sudden criticism.
As one fan sarcastically put it,
“Of course they’re mad… Karina’s repping Prada and Chanel while their fave is probably doing burger joint sponsorships. Keep winning, Karina!”
Her growing list of luxury brand partnerships — including Prada and Chanel — has solidified her reputation as one of the most sought-after fashion icons among fourth-generation idols, making her a frequent target of envy-fueled discussions online.
A Testimony to Natural Beauty and Grace
Despite the negativity, the debate only further highlighted Karina’s versatility and grace. Whether performing on stage in full glam or casually chatting with fans barefaced, she continues to exude confidence and poise.
Fans praised her for maintaining humility and authenticity in an industry often obsessed with perfection.
Her calm response — simply continuing with her livestreams without addressing the hate — has been interpreted as a quiet yet powerful statement of self-assurance.
As one netizen summed it up perfectly:
“Karina doesn’t need heavy makeup to shine — she’s already radiant without it.”
In the end, the controversy proved that true beauty isn’t defined by layers of makeup but by confidence and authenticity, something Karina embodies effortlessly.
After years of anticipation, BLACKPINK has finally set a date for their long-awaited group comeback.
According to an exclusive report by Maeil Business Star Today on November 6, the group is reportedly preparing to make their return in January 2026.
The comeback was initially expected to arrive in late 2025, but sources close to the group revealed that the decision to push it into the new year was made to improve the overall quality of the music and to better align with BLACKPINK’s upcoming 2026 world tour schedule.
While the delay disappointed some fans, it also renewed excitement that the group is aiming for a large-scale, carefully crafted comeback to mark a new chapter in their career.
From December Rumors to Official Confirmation
Earlier this year, rumors began circulating that BLACKPINK was preparing for a December 2025 comeback after Jisoo dropped subtle hints during a public appearance.
However, YG Entertainment quickly clarified that no official date had been set at that time.
In October 2025, the company confirmed that the group was in the process of filming their new music video, signaling that the comeback preparations were indeed underway.
This latest report is the first to specify an official timeframe, putting to rest months of speculation and uncertainty among fans.
BLACKPINK (Credit: YouTube)
BLACKPINK’s First Comeback in Four Years
If released as planned, BLACKPINK’s upcoming album will be their first full-group comeback in nearly four years since the release of their critically acclaimed second studio album, “ BORN PINK, ” which dropped in September 2022.
The group’s most recent music release was the single “ JUMP ,” revealed in July 2025, but it was a special track rather than a part of a full album.
Fans have long awaited a new project showcasing the group’s signature sound and fierce charisma as a unit.
Solo Success and Global Expansion
While group activities have been limited, all four members—Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa—have continued to make waves individually through solo music releases, acting projects, fashion campaigns, and brand endorsements.
Despite their solo focus, BLACKPINK has maintained their global dominance as performers.
The group launched their “Deadline” world tour in July 2025 with a powerful opening show in Goyang, amazing audiences across Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
In August, BLACKPINK made history by becoming the first K-pop girl group to headline a solo concert at London’s legendary Wembley Stadium, solidifying their position as one of the biggest musical acts in the world.
A Milestone Year Ahead
The timing of the upcoming release couldn’t be more significant. BLACKPINK is set to celebrate their 10th anniversary since their debut in August 2016, marking a decade of groundbreaking achievements and record-setting milestones in K-pop history.
Fans around the world are eagerly anticipating what the group has in store, with many hoping that this long-awaited comeback will showcase a fresh concept, innovative visuals, and music that reflects BLACKPINK’s evolution over the past nine years.
As of now, YG Entertainment has yet to issue an official statement confirming the report, but excitement is already surging across global fan communities.
If all goes according to plan, January 2026 could mark the grand return of BLACKPINK — and the beginning of a powerful new era for the world’s most iconic girl group.
