Celebrities often venture into business to explore new opportunities and secure their financial future. However, some have faced backlash for selling products at seemingly exorbitant prices.
Take, for instance, Kang Min-kyung from Davichi, who sold a scrunchy for 59,000 won on her online shopping platform, Àvie muah. Despite her claims of using high-quality silk and intricate craftsmanship, many found the price unreasonable.
Gong Hyo-jin and her mobile phone case scandal
Similarly, Gong Hyo-jin offered a mobile phone case through an upcycling project for 89,000 won, drawing criticism for its steep price tag. More recently, singer Jeon So-mi launched her own beauty brand, GLYF, with a highlighter priced at 43,000 won. Compared to similar products from other Korean brands, this price point was considered too high by many consumers.
So-mi’s GLYF: Price so High, Shocking and Confusing Netizens Worldwide
Adding to the controversy, GLYF’s website initially stated that cancellations were not possible for pre-orders, sparking further outrage. Bubble Korea, the company behind GLYF, later apologized for the misinformation.
In response to the criticism, Jeon So-mi defended herself by explaining her involvement in the product development process. She claimed to have meticulously selected the colors and ensured the product’s durability, implying that the higher price was justified by the product’s quality and her personal involvement.
Celebrities and their Justifications: True or just excuses?
Despite celebrities’ efforts to justify their product prices by citing their involvement and the product’s quality, many consumers remain unconvinced. They argue that the prices are still too high compared to similar offerings in the market. Thus, while celebrities may bring their fame and expertise to their business ventures, they must also be mindful of consumer expectations and market standards to avoid public backlash.
