Gucci calls off fashion show at Gyeongbok Palace due to controversy

Luxury fashion brand Gucci is calling off its fashion show that was been scheduled to take place at a royal palace, Gyeongbok Palace, in Seoul.

The move comes as criticism emerged over Vogue Korea taking photos of models in sensual possess and flamboyant dresses within the compound. According to media reports, following the release of the images, many have taken to criticise the Korean Cultural Heritage Administration (CHA) for undermining “national dignity” by allowing a historical place for fashion magazine shoots.

According to CHA, before the controversy emerged it had been preparing for the Gucci event. However, at this point it is “not easy to go ahead with it in this situation”. In fact, CHA had seen the Gucci event as an opportunity to showcase and promote the palace’s beauty to global viewers.

Cheong Wa Dae was the site of the presidential office and residence for over seven decades, but it has now been made open to the public.

Meanwhile a spokesperson from Gucci also told Yonghap, that the event would have increased the world’s awareness of the cultural and academic value of Gyeongbok Palace. Nonetheless with the recent controversy, talks are on-going regarding the cancellation.

Meanwhile, Vogue has also been involved in other headline making controversies around the world. Approximately a month ago, it put Olena Zelenska, the Ukrainian first lady on its magazine with an in-depth interview and some behind the scenes footage of the couple. This raised eyebrows as many questioned the timing of the interview, as the country remained amidst a war. Others found the interview to be of poor taste given the tough reality for Ukrainians on ground.