Recently, a resurfaced video allegedly featuring BLACKPINK members Jennie, Lisa, and Rosé during their trainee days at YG Entertainment has caused significant controversy, In the footage, the members are reportedly seen singing along to songs that include the N-word without censoring it. This has led to widespread disappointment among fans and netizens, particularly because Jennie and Rosé are fluent in English, which suggests an understanding of the term's offensive nature. As a result, many fans are calling for accountability and education on cultural sensitivity within the K-pop industry.
Lisa (6) surpasses Jennie (5) as Blackpink member with most N word count. pic.twitter.com/FzBt20Xj4B
— Flop Kpop (@TheFlopKpop) March 31, 2025
The N-word is a racial slur with a painful history rooted in the oppression of Black individuals. Its usage by non-Black individuals is widely considered offensive and inappropriate. The emergence of this video has reignited discussions about cultural awareness within the K-pop community. Many fans and critics have expressed their frustration, questioning why young trainees were allowed or encouraged to engage in such behavior without correction from their management.
Some argue that this points to a broader issue of cultural insensitivity in the entertainment industry, particularly in South Korea, where awareness of racial issues has historically been less prominent than in Western countries.
This controversy is not an isolated case in the K-pop world. Over the years, multiple idols have faced criticism for racially insensitive actions. For example, rapper Lee Young Ji recently received backlash after a video surfaced showing her using the N-word during a rehearsal. She later issued a public apology, acknowledging her mistake and expressing deep regret.
Youngji qui dit le nword dans good girl pourquoi ca me surprend elle est en duo avec wasabi pic.twitter.com/wPGpeiKy5v
— ☥ (@leeho3_) May 29, 2020
Similarly, BLACKPINK's Lisa has previously been accused of cultural appropriation for wearing box braids in the "Kill This Love" music video, sparking debates about the industry's approach to borrowing elements from Black culture without proper understanding or respect.
Fans of BLACKPINK are divided in their responses to the controversy. Some believe that the members were young and likely unaware of the weight of the word at the time. They argue that the blame should be placed on YG Entertainment for failing to educate their trainees about cultural sensitivity. Others, however, insist that age and ignorance are not valid excuses, especially for individuals fluent in English. Many international fans, particularly Black fans, have voiced their disappointment, stating that incidents like these make it harder for them to support their favorite artists unconditionally.
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This situation has reignited calls for K-pop agencies to implement better cultural education programs for their idols. Many fans and activists argue that companies should take responsibility for ensuring that their artists understand the historical and social implications of their words and actions.
With K-pop's increasing global influence, including a massive following in Western countries, cultural sensitivity has become more important than ever. As the genre continues to expand internationally, many believe that idols and entertainment companies must take proactive steps to educate themselves and prevent similar controversies in the future.
The resurfacing of this video serves as an important reminder of the need for accountability in the entertainment industry. While BLACKPINK has not officially addressed the controversy, the discussion surrounding it highlights the ongoing struggle for greater cultural awareness in K-pop. Fans hope that incidents like this will encourage idols and agencies to take a more thoughtful approach to cultural sensitivity and prevent similar issues from arising in the future.
