‘I’m Born Nxde, and You Are the Pervert’

Abstract This paper analyses the music video Nxde by ( G ) I - DLE , exploring its portrayal of femininity in the Korean music industry. It addresses the perpetuation of the beauty myth and objectification, symbolised by Marilyn Monroe as the ideal of beauty and innocence. Despite little change in media practices, the video challenges narrow perceptions of women beyond pure or vulgar binaries. It partially compares Nxde to the empowering video Tomboy emphasising the critique of the music industry’s perpetuation of beauty myths and sexualisation of artists. The video also highlights the impact on employment and education of discrimination based on appearance, contributing to societal inequality. Nxde confronts media audiences, exposing their objectifying tendencies and the commodification of desires. It acknowledges the need for systemic change and questions the authenticity of feminist voices within a commercialised industry that reproduces criticised symbols. While navigating the complexities of the Korean music industry, the video aims to shed light on social and gender issues within its constraints.