Instagram has always been synonymous with its square grid layout; the 1:1 picture ratio has been a defining feature of the platform for years. However, the unexpected change that was rolled out this morning has brought forth controversy, especially in the K-Pop industry.
Instagram has suddenly changed its iconic 1:1 aspect ratio opting for a 4:5 one instead.
The new 4:5 aspect ratio introduces a taller, more cinematic frame to posts, offering the potential for fresh creative directions with the added space. However, it also disrupts existing grids meticulously crafted in the classic square format.
The unexpected change directly impacts one of the most visually captivating elements of K-Pop: Instagram grid teaser layouts. Since 2016, these grids have been a cornerstone of K-Pop comebacks, offering a creative and artistic way to build hype for new releases.
Oh My Girl and Red Velvet notably pioneered this approach. The latter first used it during their “Dumb Dumb” comeback, inspiring countless other artists and agencies to adopt the trend. These meticulously designed grids have since become synonymous with K-Pop promotions, grabbing fans’ attention and elevating the comeback experience. Even though back in the day the photos appeared quite spaced out from each other in the grid.
they deleted every posts, luvies thought they were hacked then boom pic.twitter.com/jfcl9uiT2Y
— knowles. (@ksgyonce) March 17, 2021
Many teaser layouts now appear misaligned or awkwardly cropped, leaving fans to chuckle—or cringe—at the unintended distortions. What was once a perfect artistic showcase now risks looking jumbled or unfinished.
kpop teasers will never be the same with the new instagram update 😭😭 pic.twitter.com/onX2zbjsKm
— klau (@kokokbop) January 18, 2025
While some argue the updated format allows for more vertical storytelling and experimentation, it also demands an overhaul of teaser strategies. Agencies must rethink their designs to ensure their concepts translate seamlessly into this new format. The taller posts might bring opportunities for dynamic visuals, but for now, they’ve also brought plenty of growing pains.
instagram will pay for their crimes oh my… they just ruined like every kpop groups account pic.twitter.com/ZW9zkcJ1dl
— ۟ (@ningvinyl) January 18, 2025
mememoo😭😭 pic.twitter.com/eTZyMw33C6
— roue 💙 (@rouwheein) January 18, 2025
One thing’s for sure: comeback teasers on Instagram will never be the same.
