Maxim criticized for cover

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Maxim criticized for cover

Men’s fashion magazine Maxim has released a statement regarding the recent controversy over its September issue cover page.

On the cover of the issue released Friday, actor Kim Byung-ok is described as a “bad guy.” In the photo, Kim poses in front of a sedan with a half-open trunk and a woman’s bare legs, bound with tape, sticking out.

The cover image was severely criticized upon its release, as the image evoked images of sexual assault.

In response to such criticism, the men’s fashion magazine responded by claiming that “September’s publication represents actor Kim Byung-ok, who has peaked in his career for his villain character. He has been purposefully set to be portrayed as a bad guy in a noir film by the editorial department.”

“Even though the cover shot has been directed to exude the ambiance of a noir movie, there is not a single element related to sexual assault,” the magazine continued.

Meanwhile, model Jung Doo-ri, who won the Maxim Girl contest in 2014, also responded negatively to the photo. According to her, she had been scheduled to be featured in the magazine this year but has changed her mind after seeing the latest cover.

BY JIN MIN-JI
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