“Members Are Minors” PSY’s Label Faces Sexualization Controversy, Deletes Condom-Like Scene
P Nation’s newly debuted girl group Baby DONT Cry has found itself at the center of controversy following the release of their debut MV teaser for “F Girl.” Critics are calling out the video’s suggestive imagery, particularly because the group consists entirely of underage members.
The teaser features one member approaching a cashier and placing a small, wrapped package on the counter—one that visually resembles a condom brand. When the male cashier gives her a disapproving look, she opens the package to reveal a candy, which she then places in her mouth. Though intended to be cheeky or ironic, the scene drew immediate backlash online for its inappropriateness, especially given that three out of the four group members are under 20.
Viewers expressed concern over the group’s debut being tied to provocative symbolism, accusing PNATION of “marketing shock value” at the expense of minors’ images. The controversy intensified as it became known that Jeon Soyeon of i-DLE, a respected idol and producer, is credited as the main producer for Baby DONT Cry‘s debut and composed their title track.
Comments on theqoo:
- “Jeon [So-yeon] is seriously… disgusting. Do you really want to act like that toward underage girls who aren’t even 19 yet? F**.”*
- “So trashy. Targeting girls in preppy looks—ugh, gross.”
- “Please, just don’t act like that toward minors.”
- “Ugh.”
- “Even adult stores don’t advertise condoms that blatantly. He’s clearly aiming for something, and yet acts like others are the perverts—seriously?”
- “I was already shocked when he put his fingers in his mouth and pretended to throw up in the MV… I guess this is the concept they’re going with now. I liked Jo Yi-hyun in The Wicked and had hopes, but this is disappointing… the other members seemed pretty too.”
On June 22, through Baby DONT Cry’s official account, P Nation stated, “We are aware that the teaser video for the debut title track ‘F Girl’ has raised concerns among certain members of the public and fan community. We deeply regret any discomfort or concern this may have caused, and we offer our heartfelt apologies to those affected.”
P Nation explained, “‘F Girl’ contains the message of embracing one’s authentic self and moving beyond externally imposed standards, such as A-F letter grades or labels. The opening scene of ‘F Girl’ teaser 1 was intended to convey a playful and rebellious tone through imagery such as chewing gum and holding a lollipop. We express with the utmost clarity that there was never any intent to sexualize this scene. Furthermore, we affirm that the full music video contains no provocative or sexualized content of any kind.”
P Nation continued, “Nevertheless, in order to avoid further misunderstanding or concern, and with full respect for the feedback received from our audience, we have made the decision to remove the scene in question from the ‘F Girl’ music video, reflecting our commitment to safeguarding the members of Baby DONT Cry and to embracing the voice of the fan community.”
The agency also clarified the use of cherry imagery, which had come under scrutiny, “We would also like to address the use of the cherry as a symbol for Baby DONT Cry. The cherry was chosen to embody vibrancy, boldness, and youthful energy—qualities that reflect the group’s identity. As it is widely embraced as a positive and lively symbol across global brands and creative content, we approached its use with the same intention. At no point did we consider or reference any interpretations beyond this positive spirit.”
Meanwhile, Baby DONT Cry is scheduled to officially debut with their first single “F Girl” on June 23 at 6 PM KST.
