Super Junior Leeteuk Addresses Outfit Reuse at SMTOWN LIVE 2025 in Seoul Concert
Super Junior’s leader Leeteuk has openly discussed the controversy surrounding outfit reuse at SM Entertainment’s 30th anniversary concert, SMTOWN LIVE 2025. In a live broadcast on January 12, 2025, Leeteuk provided insights into the financial considerations behind costume choices for major K-pop events.
Financial Constraints and Sustainability in K-pop Performances
Leeteuk explained that the concert’s production budget was limited, affecting costume decisions. He revealed that producing new outfits for each performance can cost millions of won, with expenses often coming from the artists’ activity budgets. This financial reality has led to the strategic reuse of costumes for certain events.
Artist Perspective on Costume Reuse
The Super Junior member emphasized the practicality of reusing outfits, stating, “It would be a waste to make expensive outfits that we only wear once.” He assured fans that the group is mindful of excessive reuse and communicates with stylists when they feel an outfit has been overused.
Previous article about SMTOWN > [Setlist] SMTOWN LIVE 2025 in Seoul version
Knetz Reactions and criticism on Leeteuk
While some fans initially expressed disappointment, many have shown understanding following Leeteuk’s explanation. This incident has sparked discussions about sustainability in K-pop and the balance between fan expectations and practical considerations in the industry.
Leeteuk’s transparency has shed light on the behind-the-scenes aspects of K-pop productions, offering fans a deeper understanding of the industry’s challenges and decision-making processes.
@ilove1031too
“It’s not even a free concert, and honestly, SM idols make a ton of money, yet they’re asking fans to understand… Isn’t this taking advantage of fans too much? It’s irritating…”
@ihyunjeans
LEETEUK, you don’t have to come out to the SM concert.
@SO3UG
“F***, he earns so much money and already have a ton, yet he is acting all ridiculous hahaha. Don’t just say you love us, spend some money.”
@apeumii
“You guys could just take less money, right?👍”
@kokokomini
“What the hell, they’re not rookie idols and probably have at least 10 billion won. It’s really pathetic when people like that say these things. Did the fans who attended get in for free? They don’t seem to have even a shred of gratitude for the people who spent money and time to see them.”
@iillang_i
“If he had explained it differently, without mentioning money – like saying they couldn’t produce new outfits in time to look nice, or that the styling team would be overworked compared to their pay, or that making too many outfits is bad for the environment – I think the reaction would have been less negative. When they said it costs a lot of money, even I thought for a moment, ‘Then just pay for it.’ That’s how it comes across.”
