"Yes, I'm Nude”: Deconstructing Body Image Stereotypes in Nxde by (G)I-DLE

 The evolution of the Korean music industry, or K-Pop, has now become a global phenomenon. K-Pop has
transcended boundaries, not only as a genre of music but also as a medium capable of conveying messages and
critiques on societal issues. (G)I-DLE’s 2022 song “Nxde” stands out in this regard, addressing body image and
challenging stereotypes related to women’s representation. This study investigates how “Nxde” deconstructs body
image stereotypes and critiques the objectification of women within K-Pop and broader media cultures. Using
Charles Morris's semiotic analysis, this research examines syntactic, semantic, and pragmatic aspects of the song's
lyrics and imagery, positioning "nude" as a symbol of self-authenticity that opposes superficial standards often
imposed on female idols. Findings indicate that “Nxde” aims to empower women by redefining nudity as an
expression of authenticity. As seen in society, the meaning of nudity is often only considered as sexualized and
inappropriate norms. While this also raises questions about the potential contradictions between feminist messages
that may still conform to patriarchal standards. In conclusion, “Nxde” exemplifies K-Pop's dual role as both a
platform for progressive social commentary and a potential reinforcer of traditional beauty norms. The study
suggests that songs like “Nxde” can stimulate discourse on body image and foster more nuanced representations of
women. However, the findings also underscore the complexities of using provocative imagery to convey messages
of empowerment, highlighting the need for further research into media’s influence on gender perceptions.