As of late, issues regarding racism in K-pop are rising. International fans are feeling disrespected amid growing concerns regarding K-Pop idols using racist slurs, inappropriate mannerisms, perpetuating stereotypes and culture appropriation.
After the debacle regarding KISS OF LIFE pretending to be “black” and throwing an old-school Hip Hop themed birthday party live stream that was met with backlash almost immediately, BM of KARD is now under the spotlight.
On April 7th, BM was live streaming on TikTok live and singing various songs while chatting with fans. In one song, BM was heard saying the “N” word, a racial slur towards black people, while singing a DMX song and was soon met with discontent from fans in the comments. Some fans felt that BM was merely performing the song and he didn’t offend anyone with his gestures or cover of the song. However, some fans felt that using song lyrics as a means to use the slur is not an excuse. Fans also noted that BM never cursed or said the “N” word before in other songs that utilized the slur and was born and raised in Los Angeles and should “know better” as an international idol.
@kpophistory8 On a scale of one to OVER IT, how fed up are we?! In light of all the BS w/ these Kpop artists, here’s live footage of me DOUBLE TAKING my comment in BM’s live. #Kpop #History #KissOfLife #GDragon #Joke #fyp #Kpopfyp #BM
After the incident, BM took to TikTok Live to apologize again and actually have a discussion with fans about the situation before it could escalate into something worse. BM invited fans onto his live stream to discuss his mistake. While some fans felt “proud” that BM owned up to his mistake and tried to correct it, other fans scolded or belittled him and even said “You’re done now. You’re cancelled,” which left certain fans watching with a bitter reaction. While BM is being applauded for not going the generic route and issuing a written apology, it doesn’t excuse him from his actions. Fans also reshared video clips on Twitter (X) and began a heated debate on whether he should be cancelled or forgiven. Netizens also wondered if other fans took it too far when giving criticism.
im sorry but like 😭😭😭 https://t.co/FTMLhpCQQL pic.twitter.com/OYQLIk4vIO
— naeya ꩜ .ᐟ (@aejikunn) April 8, 2025
Lately, more and more content is resurfacing of K-Pop idols either culture appropriating black culture or cursing and using black vernacular and ebonics. Videos of BLACK PINK members using the “N” word while rapping hip hop songs during their trainee days sparked backlash alongside 2NE1 member CL doing the same singing lyrics like “Ma N***** pull triggahs,” etc.
Will K-Pop still continue to see issues regarding racism and misunderstandings of other people’s cultures? Is an intervention needed, and should idols be provided with proper education of cultures if they plan on becoming international stars? Is the pressure merely being enforced more so on K-pop idols rather than other celebrities from other countries? These questions have continued to become a hot topic in the world of K-pop as of late.
What do you think of the situation? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
>> KISS OF LIFE Criticized For Racist + Culture Appropriating Behavior During Hip Hop Live Stream
