For a couple of months, it seemed like the domination of girl groups in K-pop was slowing down. But as it turned out, it was only a short-lived illusion. Starting in April, with 4minute and Secret heading the pack, T-ARA N4, Hello Venus, Nine Muses, Rainbow, Sistar, After School, Sunny Hill, Dal Shabet, Girl's Day have all returned and filled the stage.

With a few exceptions, the common denominator among these girl groups is 'sexy.' Naturally, off came the clothes from their outfits in order to push the 'sexy code.' The competition among numerous girl groups has only fanned the flame in the last month.

The current trend in promiscuous outfits among girl groups is related to promoting the objectification of sex and women, especially among teenagers who are not only impressionable but the largest following of these idol stars.

The reason behind more exposure of the legs and body lines is simple. It grabs the attention of the viewers like no other. The sensual route has become the official road of marketing strategies among girl groups because it plays on human nature and is therefore highly effective.

But the biggest pitfall of sensual clothing may lie in exactly that: easy. Girl groups often spend several months to a year in preparation for their album-related practice and training. Of course, they do not invest all the time brainstorming how to look sexier and create more noise for marketing purposes. Through tremendous amount of practice sessions, they definitely develop as musicians and performers during their breaks. But when their risqué outfits become the focal point of all the talk, their effort off the stage never gets the credit it is due.

A staff member from a music show commented, "Sometimes, it gets confusing whether the waiting room for artists is a workplace or a swimming pool. I often have trouble because I don't know where to look. The competition among girl groups is fierce. Some groups even analyze how other groups exposed what body parts in what fashion."

He added, "But it is difficult to just go conservative because you will be overshadowed by other groups no matter how good you are. Receiving more press is critical for any artists and management companies."

It goes without saying that artists live off of the public's attention, both literally and figuratively. But the ends do not justify the means in an industry that exerts such a heavy influence on the country's future generations. The homework for artists and their management companies as they prepare for a new album should be on how to best portray their improved vocals, choreography, passion, etc. Without a doubt, it is a hard task, definitely harder than cutting a few holes in outfits. However, their steps toward the noble task and its manifestation through quality music will certainly be rewarded with applause, respect and a title as true musicians, rather than ogling eyes that will shift to the next 'sexy' that comes around the block.