Multiple K-Pop Stars Accused Of Appropriating Black Culture In Just One Week, Fans Outraged

“Being a Black K-Pop stan is exhausting.”
Lists
Koreaboo

In the span of just one week, three different K-Pop acts have come under fire for cultural appropriation, sparking massive backlash and reigniting conversations about the industry’s ongoing issues with respecting other cultures.

jennierubyjane_1704768081_3276154577550774333_7140177628
Videos of BLACKPINK members, including Jennie, saying the N-Word recently leaked online. | @jennierubyjane/Instagram

1. BLACKPINK

The string of controversies first began when old videos from their pre-debut era featuring BLACKPINK surfaced online. On March 30, a YouTube channel called Kim Mi Hyun Productions uploaded several clips that appeared to be pre-debut evaluation footage from YG Entertainment.

In some of the videos, BLACKPINK members Jennie, Lisa, and Rosé are seen covering rap songs that contain the N-word.

Fans were quick to criticize the group — especially its fluent English speakers—for using the word and not taking responsibility. Jennie, Lisa, Rosé, their respective agencies, and YG Entertainment have yet to respond to the backlash.

2. KISS OF LIFE

Not long after, rookie girl group KISS OF LIFE found themselves at the center of another controversy. During a livestream for member Julie’s birthday, the group appeared in what they described as “old-school hip hop” outfits.

Fans pointed out that the members were dressed in stereotypical depictions of Black culture — wearing large gold chains, hats, and hairstyles such as cornrows. Viewers also called out the exaggerated mannerisms and freestyle rapping, which many felt crossed the line into offensive caricature.

The group’s agency, S2 Entertainment, issued an apology shortly after the backlash.

3. from20

The most recent incident involves soloist from20, who is preparing to release a new single on April 11.

from20 durag
| @WAYBETTER_GB/X (formerly known as Twitter)

Teasers released on April 3 showed the singer wearing a white tank top and a durag, a look many netizens criticized for being culturally insensitive. Durags hold cultural significance within the Black community, often seen as symbols of identity. The use of such items by non-Black individuals without context or acknowledgment has repeatedly been called out as appropriation.

With three incidents surfacing so close together, fans have expressed growing frustration — not just at the actions themselves but also at the lack of accountability.

Many are once again urging the K-pop industry to properly educate its artists and staff on cultural sensitivity and respect.

Next Page
. . .
Scroll to top