Aespa Karina’s Recent Emotional Revelation Ignites Discussion on Misogyny

aespa’s Karina is facing controversy after a surprising comment on a recent variety show with Jang Do Yeon.

When asked what she would want to be reincarnated as, Karina didn’t hesitate. She said she’d want to be reborn as a man because “it’s such a different life.”

This comment quickly went viral and sparked heavy discussion online. Many fans found the statement sad, especially since Karina has often been targeted by misogyny herself.

Q. what if you’re reincarnated?
i’d like to live as a man. it’s such a different life
— (@krnlovesyu), January 3, 2026

Some pointed out that Karina’s answer highlights the harsh double standards female idols face in the industry.

thinking about how karina said she wants to be reborn as a man because it’s will be different just pains me…sadly we live in a society with double standards and misogyny and she’s a victim of them
— (@icurina), January 3, 2026

Broader reactions blamed South Korea’s misogynistic culture for the tough life women live, especially in entertainment.

if i were living in a counry as misogynistic as south korea i’d want to live as a man as well
— remy (@remyje), January 3, 2026

we don’t deserve aespa, they spent so much time training and working their asses off to achieve their dreams, only to find out something so stupid like gender dictates how everything works in the industry, may the world be kinder to our girls
— (@whoreplash), January 3, 2026

Karina’s lighthearted remark opened up serious conversations about the inequality and hardships female idols continue to face in K-pop. The controversy shows the sharp divide in how gender is viewed in the industry and society.