Controversy Erupts as Baby DONT Cry's Teaser Raises Concerns

In a move that has sparked widespread backlash, Baby DONT Cry, a girl group produced by Soyeon of (G)I-DLE, has faced significant criticism following the release of their debut music video teaser for the single "F Girl." Released on June 20, 2025, the teaser features a scene where a member approaches a store clerk and reveals a candy packet that resembles a condom wrapper, raising alarms among netizens who expressed concern over the appropriateness of the imagery given that three of the group's four members are minors.

The teaser's provocative elements have led to a divisive response online, with some viewers appreciating the intended tongue-in-cheek messaging, while others have condemned it as inappropriate for a group primarily composed of underage performers. Notably, the title of the song, "F Girl," has been highlighted as particularly troubling given the young ages of the members.

According to Dr. Emily Chen, a sociologist specializing in media and youth culture at Stanford University, the portrayal of minors in sexualized contexts raises ethical questions. "Media representations of young individuals warrant careful consideration, particularly when they intersect with sexual themes," Dr. Chen stated. “The potential impact on young audiences must be a primary concern for producers and labels alike.”

The reactions on social media have been swift and intense, with many users questioning the decision-making process behind the group's concept. One user noted, "3 minors, condom wrapper, song called 'F Girl'… it’s a troubling combination." Others have expressed disbelief that such a concept would be allowed, given the age of the performers.

Soyeon, who has been instrumental in the group's production, faces scrutiny as well. Critics argue that regardless of her artistic intentions, the imagery in the teaser is inappropriate. A tweet from a concerned fan read, "What disgusts me the most is how her fans are still making feminist theories, do you realize that there is nothing wrong with holding your fav accountable?" Despite the backlash, some fans defended Soyeon, suggesting that her role may not encompass the creative direction of the teaser.

In a broader context, the incident highlights ongoing debates in the K-pop industry regarding the sexualization of young idols. According to a 2023 report by the Korea Creative Content Agency, there has been a noted increase in public discourse surrounding the treatment of underage performers in the entertainment industry, particularly in relation to their portrayal in music videos and promotional materials.

This controversy comes at a time when the K-pop industry is under heightened scrutiny regarding the welfare of its young stars. As such, a statement from the Korean Ministry of Gender Equality and Family emphasized the importance of protecting minors in the entertainment sector, stating, "We are committed to ensuring that minors are not subjected to harmful content that could negatively influence their development."

The impact of this controversy could have lasting implications for Baby DONT Cry and the involved parties. As the group prepares for their official debut, the backlash may influence public perception and their success in an already competitive industry. Moving forward, industry experts advocate for a reevaluation of how young performers are marketed and portrayed in order to foster a healthier environment for all artists.

As the debate continues, the K-pop community remains divided. Whether Baby DONT Cry can recover from this backlash remains uncertain, but it serves as a critical moment for the industry to reflect on its practices and responsibilities towards its youngest artists.