SM Entertainment is facing criticism after allegations surfaced that one of its trainees, Takagi Justin Jay, underwent plastic surgery. The controversy began after new photos of Justin Jay, a member of the trainee group SMTR25, surfaced from the recent SM Town concert in Los Angeles. Fans quickly noticed changes in his facial features, particularly a more pronounced nose bridge and a sculpted face.
Justin Jay, who was previously part of BigHit Music’s pre-debut project, Trainee A, has sparked a flurry of comments from fans regarding his appearance. In comparison to his earlier looks, his new photos revealed a noticeably altered face. Fans were quick to point out the differences and speculated that he may have undergone plastic surgery.
Many questioned why SM Entertainment would encourage such a change for someone who already had defined Western features. Some fans expressed their concerns about the pressures of adhering to Korean beauty standards, which they feel can be extreme at times. The speculation intensified, with many expressing disappointment that someone with already well-defined features would undergo surgery to fit a particular ideal.
SM Entertainment, a major player in the K-pop industry, is no stranger to criticism regarding beauty standards. The company has long been associated with promoting certain aesthetic ideals that are often seen as part of the K-pop industry’s rigorous image expectations. With many of their idols having undergone cosmetic procedures, these beauty standards have come under increasing scrutiny. The recent allegations about Justin Jay only add fuel to the fire.
While SM Entertainment has yet to confirm any details regarding Justin Jay’s appearance or the rumored procedures, fans are left questioning the ethics behind such decisions. As a Japanese-American trainee, Justin’s looks have sparked additional discussion on whether his natural features were being altered to fit a specific mold. Critics argue that imposing such standards on idols from diverse backgrounds may not always be beneficial.
Despite the controversy, some fans were impressed with Justin Jay’s transformed look, with many praising his makeover. The mixed reactions from fans highlight the tension between admiration for an idol’s appearance and concerns over the pressures of maintaining a certain image.
Justin Jay is one of several trainees introduced as part of SM Entertainment’s new project, SMTR25. The group, which was introduced during the SMTOWN Live 2025 concert as part of the company’s 30th anniversary celebrations, has already garnered attention for its talented members. At the concert, the trainees delivered captivating performances of popular songs such as SHINee’s Lucifer and EXO’s Growl.
The future of SMTR25 remains uncertain. While the group has yet to make its official debut, fans are eagerly awaiting news about the final lineup of trainees who will make it to the group. Among the other trainees being speculated to join the group are Charlie Mullis, Riku Kitazume, Chin Kachinthorn, Kassho, Haruta, Haru, and Krit.
As SM Entertainment continues to introduce new idols, the discussion surrounding beauty standards and the pressure to conform to a specific image in the K-pop industry is likely to continue. The controversy surrounding Justin Jay’s alleged plastic surgery only highlights the challenges faced by trainees trying to make their mark in the industry.
As SM Entertainment works on finalizing the members of SMTR25, the allegations surrounding Justin Jay’s appearance raise important questions about the industry’s beauty standards and the expectations placed on young idols. With both praise and criticism pouring in, it remains to be seen how SM Entertainment will address the issue moving forward.
