South Korean Residents Call Police Over Anime Figure
Learn about the controversy surrounding the “Dongtan Figures” that has sparked major backlash in South Korea, particularly among residents of Dongtan city, located in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province.
The controversy revolves around figures being sold online that, according to complaints, promote the sexualization and objectification of women from the region. This is why residents called the police over an anime figure.
South Korean Residents Call Police Over Anime Figure
The figures, available since January on Korean and Japanese online stores, depict women wearing tight dresses with plunging necklines that highlight their bust and curves. The products have names like “Dongtan Figures,” “Misaiden,” and “Mi-Rook,” reportedly inspired by what is known as the “Dongtan Missy Look.”
The term originally began as an online meme, referring to the fashion style of young, modern women living in planned cities like Dongtan. Initially linked to a chic and elegant look, the concept gradually shifted to imply more revealing and provocative clothing often worn by female celebrities — leading to the creation of these figures, which are now the subject of heated debate.
Reactions and Complaints Surrounding the Dongtan Figure Controversy
According to Yonhap News Agency, the Dongtan figure controversy has resulted in hundreds of online complaints. Residents have submitted formal reports to the Hwaseong city government and local police stations, requesting a ban on the sale of the figures.
The main argument is that the products go beyond freedom of expression and contribute to the sexual commercialization of women’s images, while also tarnishing Dongtan’s reputation.
Hwaseong officials confirmed they received over 100 formal complaints and have begun a legal review of the case. However, the city stated that it’s difficult to impose penalties, arguing that defamation and insult cases require a clearly identifiable target.
According to the local government:
“Under Supreme Court guidelines, the crime of insult requires the presence of a specific individual whose social reputation is harmed. Since the figures do not reference a particular person, it’s difficult to take legal action.”
Controversy Pushes Shops to Remove “Dongtan” from Product Names
Some sellers have started removing the word “Dongtan” from the product titles in response to the backlash. Still, the Dongtan figure controversy continues, as many stores continue selling the items under the original branding despite the complaints.
If you’re interested in purchasing the figure, you can do so here.
via Você Sabia Anime
