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Global eyewear and fashion brand Gentle Monster has publicly apologized after facing mounting controversy over allegations that its design and creative staff were subjected to excessive work hours and unpaid labor, a scandal that has reverberated through both the fashion industry and Korean entertainment communities.
The apology, issued by Gentle Monster’s parent company IICOMBINED in early February 2026, acknowledges “significant shortcomings in workplace practices” after reports surfaced that some employees, particularly designers, regularly worked more than 70 hours per week without proper overtime compensation or adequate breaks. The controversy gained traction on social media and industry forums, with critics pointing to the contrast between the brand’s high-profile collaborations and alleged internal labor practices.
According to company statements and subsequent public remarks, Gentle Monster will immediately abolish its existing “discretionary labor system,” under which employees were reportedly exempt from standard overtime protections, and transition to a selective working hours system designed to better align with labor standards and individual work schedules. The brand also pledged a comprehensive overhaul of its personnel, attendance and compensation systems.
The apology marks an effort to address not only internal concerns but also public distrust, as Gentle Monster has become a notable presence in entertainment fashion through high-profile partnerships with celebrities like BLACKPINK’s Jennie and aespa’s Karina — faces that helped elevate the brand’s global visibility. These endorsements intensified public scrutiny when allegations about working conditions began circulating.
In the apology, CEO Kim Han-guk stated that the company “recognizes its responsibility and will work closely with labor authorities and external experts to implement necessary reforms,” including better compensation for overtime and fairer scheduling policies. The brand also said it plans to expand training for managers and adopt stricter internal audits to prevent similar issues in the future.
The Gentle Monster case highlights growing concerns in creative industries about workplace culture, employee welfare and the balance between global brand prestige and ethical labor practices.
Source:(entertain)
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