On February 16, a user sent Tzuyu a message through the fan communication app “Bubble,” writing, “Can’t you lose some leg weight? Your backup dancer is slimmer than you.”
In response, Tzuyu coolly replied, “Thanks. Save your money.” The platform requires a paid subscription of approximately 5,000 KRW per month, making her comeback even sharper.
Screenshots of the exchange quickly spread across online communities and social media, igniting controversy. Not only TWICE fans but also international K-pop fans criticized the original commenter.
The debate intensified following fancams from TWICE’s world tour concert held on February 15. In the videos, Tzuyu wore a short bodysuit paired with fur boots while performing powerful choreography. Some overseas fans used the moment to criticize Korea’s strict beauty standards.
One international fan commented, “I really hate Korea’s beauty standards. Skinny legs? That’s ridiculous. We need more female idols like Tzuyu.” The remark reignited ongoing discussions among global K-pop fans about what they perceive as excessive appearance-based criticism within the Korean entertainment industry.
Meanwhile, some Korean netizens pushed back against generalizations, saying, “Tzuyu has been known as a visual member since debut,” and “It’s unreasonable to generalize Korea’s beauty standards based on a minority opinion.”
As for Tzuyu’s response, many praised her wit and composure. Comments included, “Imagine paying money just to leave a hateful comment,” “Tzuyu’s response is so cool,” and “Tzuyu has a glamorous figure.”
Her calm yet cutting reply has since been widely shared, earning admiration for the way she handled body-shaming criticism with confidence.
Sources: Sports Kyunghyang