Singer BIBI's bold performance at the 'Waterbomb Seoul 2026' stage has ignited a heated debate online. Critics, particularly from female communities, have expressed concerns that the performance crossed the line, while others argue that it aligns with the event's nature.
BIBI took the stage on July 25 at the outdoor global stage of KINTEX in Goyang, South Korea.
The released performance video shows BIBI kneeling and slowly unzipping her top. The footage also includes scenes of her surrounded by male dancers continuing the choreography.
As the video circulated online, negative reactions emerged from female communities.
Internet users commented, "This reminds me of Sabrina Carpenter, who faced backlash for similar reasons in the West," "This has crossed the line," "Isn't this just a strip show?" "It looks vulgar," "There’s no sense of moderation," "This is a strip show, what does it have to do with Waterbomb?" "Must it be so degrading?" "Is this the only way to get attention?" "What is she doing?" "This is disgusting," "Her expression and actions resemble those of an adult film star," and "Shouldn't this be subject to obscenity laws? She should be arrested immediately."
Others voiced concerns about the decline of women's rights, stating, "This sounds like a drop in women's rights," "How is this different from female streamers?" "There’s no need to defend female celebrities," "It’s always too excessive," "She’s already impressive with her talent, why lower herself like this?" "This seems to be her idea of beauty," "I like her, but I get annoyed every time she does something like this," and "This is a complete violation of women's rights."
Conversely, some defended the performance, arguing that it was not a sudden change.
Supporters pointed out that BIBI has been showcasing similar concepts in her performances for about four years, sharing past performance videos that included similar scenes of her removing her top during shows.
In response, other users remarked, "This is what she has always done at Waterbomb, yet now it’s labeled a strip show," "She did well and received recognition," "It’s funny to say that wearing a bikini at Waterbomb undermines women's rights," and "Male artists perform even more provocative acts, yet that doesn’t spark controversy."
This debate not only centers on BIBI's recent Waterbomb performance but also brings past performance videos into the spotlight, raising discussions about the boundaries of performance and freedom of expression.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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