HYBE is facing serious backlash and accusations of “normalizing pєdσphílíα” after releasing new concept photos for ILLIT’s upcoming mini album MAMIHLAPINATAPAI.

The controversy erupted following the release of the “It’s Me” concept film and photos for the group’s new comeback. In one of the images, member Moka appears in an edgy look with a short pixie-cut hairstyle, paired with white bloomer-style shorts and a white veil on her head. While many praised Moka’s visual transformation, a large number of netizens were disturbed by the styling, claiming the shorts strongly resemble diapers.

Critics quickly took to social media, accusing HYBE of deliberately infantilizing the members and pushing problematic aesthetics. Comments such as “age regressing is this group’s whole aesthetic now… like why is a 22 years old wearing a diaper” and “hybe trying to make diapers a trend” spread rapidly. Some users went further, linking the concept to broader accusations of “pedobaiting” and claiming HYBE is contributing to the normalization of pedophilic imagery in K-pop.

age regressing is this group’s whole aesthetic now… like why is a 22 years old wearing a diaper https://t.co/6NsrAm03vF

— ۟ (@hybendings) April 25, 2026

The backlash intensified when netizens pointed out similar styling in the past, particularly during ILLIT’s “Magnetic” era when member Iroha wore shorts that some also interpreted as diaper-like underneath a skirt. This has led to renewed scrutiny of HYBE’s creative direction for their girl groups, especially following previous controversies involving other acts under the company.

Not everyone agrees with the harsh criticism. Many fans defended the concept, arguing that bloomer shorts are a legitimate fashion trend and have been used in various styles for years. They pointed out that the outfit was simply an unflattering but common retro-inspired look, not an intentional attempt to sexualize or infantilize the members. Comments like “bloomers and bubble skirts are a legit fashion trend” and “acting as if this is something new” appeared in response to the accusations.

Despite the defense from supporters, the negative reactions have dominated online discussions. The incident has sparked wider conversations about how female idols are styled in K-pop and the fine line between cute, youthful concepts and imagery that some find inappropriate. HYBE has not issued an official statement addressing the accusations as of now.

This is not the first time HYBE and its groups have faced similar criticism. The company has previously come under fire for concept choices perceived as overly childish or sexualized, particularly with younger-looking members. ILLIT, as a relatively new girl group under HYBE, has already dealt with multiple controversies since debut, including plagiarism accusations and comparisons to other acts.

The latest scandal arrives at a sensitive time for HYBE, which continues to navigate internal challenges and public scrutiny. For ILLIT, the controversy could impact the perception of their new comeback, even before the full album is released. While some fans remain excited about the music and visuals, the online discourse has shifted heavily toward discomfort with the styling.

As the debate continues to rage across platforms like X (Twitter) and Korean online communities, many are calling for greater responsibility from entertainment companies when designing concepts for young female artists. Others argue that the accusations are overblown and that fashion choices are being unfairly sexualized or misinterpreted.

For now, ILLIT continues preparations for their comeback. Whether the controversy will affect the reception of MAMIHLAPINATAPAI remains to be seen, but the strong reactions show how quickly concept photos can spark intense discussion — and division — in the K-pop world.

The incident once again highlights the challenges idol groups face in balancing creative expression, commercial appeal, and public sensitivity. As HYBE’s girl groups continue to grow in popularity, the expectations and scrutiny placed on their visuals are only likely to increase.