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Lee Hye-young Faces ‘Animal Abuse’ Backlash Over Dog Makeup

A pet's skin can be more sensitive than a human's

Lee Hye-young, pet dog, makeup, cosmetics, pet, health
사진: 이혜영 인스타그램

Former singer-turned-TV personality Lee Hye-young is under fire after sharing a seemingly playful moment with her dog that many found disturbing.

On March 25, Lee posted photos and videos on Instagram with the caption, "You made my day," showing her cuddling her pet on a bed. But the post quickly drew controversy when viewers noticed drawings on the dog's face that looked like eyeliner and fake eyelashes, along with doodles that appeared to mimic wounds.

Reactions were split. Some fans commented, "So cute" and "You can feel the love," while others expressed concern that she may have used human cosmetics on the dog's face. Critics warned, "This could harm the animal."

Experts caution that applying products containing chemical ingredients near a pet's eyes can affect their health. A dog's cornea is highly sensitive to irritation, which can lead to conjunctivitis or corneal damage, and there is also a risk of the substance being ingested if the animal licks it. Items used around the eye area require extra care, they stress.

Lee Hye-young rose to fame in the 1990s as a singer, then expanded into variety shows and dramas, and she is currently active as a painter.