
K-Pop Singer from20 Faces Backlash for Cultural Appropriation Amid New Teaser Release
2025-04-05
Author: Ming
K-Pop sensation from20, known offstage as Raehwan, is in hot water following the unveiling of teaser images for his highly anticipated single, "Eye Candy," which is scheduled to debut on April 11. Released on April 3, these promotional visuals have ignited a firestorm of criticism on social media platforms.
The backlash primarily centers around the styling choices showcased in these teasers. In the images, from20 sports a white tank top paired with a durag, posing against a vibrant pink backdrop. As soon as these images were shared on his agency's official social media, fans and netizens around the globe reacted strongly, labeling the look as culturally insensitive.
Durags, originally worn by Black individuals for hair protection, have evolved into an essential component of Black culture and fashion, representing a form of self-expression. When people outside the community adopt these items without recognizing their cultural significance, it often results in accusations of cultural appropriation. This is precisely the situation at hand for from20, who is facing intense scrutiny and backlash from fans and critics alike.
This incident isn't an isolated one; it adds to a troubling trend in the K-Pop industry. Just recently, the girl group XG faced criticism for incorporating durags into their merchandise line. Similarly, the group KISS OF LIFE has been criticized for their use of hairstyles and fashion items associated with racial stereotypes, including cornrows and oversized gold chains.
As the world of K-Pop continues to navigate the complexities of cultural representation, from20 has yet to publicly address the controversy surrounding his upcoming release. With the single's launch drawing near, fans are eagerly waiting to see how the situation will evolve and whether from20 will respond to the mounting criticism. This incident highlights the ongoing dialogue about cultural appropriation within the entertainment industry, raising questions about respect, representation, and the responsibilities of artists in a globalized world. Stay tuned to see how this saga unfolds!