Several prominent K-pop idols have recently spoken out about experiencing racial discrimination during international travels, reigniting concerns about persistent prejudice against Asian celebrities despite the global success of Korean entertainment. The incidents involving BLACKPINK's Rosé, SEVENTEEN's Seungkwan, actress Hyeri, and singer Soyou have sparked widespread outrage among fans who are demanding accountability and more respectful treatment of Korean artists abroad.
Soyou revealed on Sunday that she faced humiliating treatment during a 15-hour international flight after simply requesting a Korean-speaking flight attendant to help her check the meal schedule. According to the singer, the flight purser reacted negatively to her reasonable request, called security, and left her feeling deeply embarrassed throughout the entire journey without being served food. "The experience left me deeply hurt by racial bias," Soyou stated. "No one should ever be doubted or insulted because of their race."
The incident became more controversial when an anonymous passenger claimed online that Soyou had been drunk and disruptive during the flight. However, the accuser later deleted both their post and entire social media account after Soyou provided a detailed rebuttal, leading public opinion to shift strongly in her favor. Notably, the airline involved was later identified as the same carrier that previously faced racism accusations from actress Hyeri in 2023, when her first-class seat was allegedly downgraded to economy class. The airline eventually apologized to Hyeri, citing an aircraft change as the reason for the downgrade.
Earlier this month, SEVENTEEN's Seungkwan shared his own experience with subtle discrimination during a visit to the United States. When he ordered an iced Americano at a café, staff members failed to understand him on two separate occasions. When they finally processed his order, the drink was prepared with almond milk, an ingredient he never requested. Fans expressed significant outrage online, pointing out the potential danger this could have posed if Seungkwan had suffered from a nut allergy.
Meanwhile, BLACKPINK's Rosé faced a different type of discrimination at Paris Fashion Week on September 29. When British fashion magazine Elle UK posted a group photo featuring Rosé alongside Hailey Bieber, Zoë Kravitz, and Charli XCX, she was the only person cropped out of the frame despite being the only global ambassador for Saint Laurent among the four celebrities. The editorial decision drew widespread criticism over apparent racial bias, with fans noting that Vogue and other major outlets had shared the complete, uncropped image.
Elle UK later attempted to address the controversy by claiming the edit was made due to photo size adjustments and subsequently uploaded a separate solo image of Rosé. However, many felt the damage had already been done. While Rosé eventually received an apology from the publication, the incident added to growing concerns about how Asian artists are treated in Western media and fashion circles.
These recent incidents have highlighted a troubling pattern that many K-pop fans say demonstrates how racism against Asian artists persists even as they achieve unprecedented global stardom. The Korean entertainment industry has become a major cultural export, with K-pop groups selling out stadiums worldwide and Korean dramas dominating international streaming platforms. Despite this massive cultural influence and success, Korean celebrities continue to face discrimination that their Western counterparts rarely experience.
Online users have flooded social media platforms with messages calling for greater accountability and demanding more respectful treatment of Korean entertainers during international appearances. Many fans are organizing campaigns to raise awareness about these issues and pressure companies and institutions to address discriminatory practices. The incidents have sparked broader conversations about racism in the entertainment industry and the challenges faced by Asian celebrities working in predominantly Western markets.
