Racial Discrimination in K-pop: Rosé’s Recent Controversy

Rosé’s Attendance at the Saint Laurent Show

On October 1, 2025, Rosé, a member of the globally renowned K-pop group BLACKPINK, attended the Saint Laurent 2026 Spring/Summer Women’s Collection Show in Paris, France. As a global ambassador for the brand, she shared captivating photos from the event on social media, showcasing her style and connection to the fashion industry.

Controversy Over Group Photo Exclusion

However, the day prior, on September 29, 2025, Rosé faced a significant backlash when she was notably excluded from a group photo published by Elle UK. This incident sparked discussions about racial discrimination within the fashion industry, particularly affecting Asian artists like Rosé. The exclusion raised eyebrows and led to widespread criticism, highlighting the ongoing challenges that K-pop idols encounter in Western fashion circles.

Previous Incidents of Racial Discrimination

This is not an isolated incident. In May 2024, Yoona from Girls’ Generation (SNSD) experienced racial discrimination during the 77th Cannes Film Festival, while Stray Kids faced similar issues at the 2024 Met Gala in New York. These events reflect a troubling trend of discrimination that continues to affect K-pop artists despite the genre’s rising global popularity.

BLACKPINK’s Jennie and Industry Challenges

In addition to Rosé’s recent experience, BLACKPINK’s Jennie has also faced criticism during her attendance at the Chanel Cruise Fashion Show in 2024. Her interactions with actress Margaret Qualley led to public scrutiny, further underscoring the complex dynamics that K-pop artists navigate in the entertainment and fashion industries.

Ongoing Conversations on Racism in Fashion

The incidents involving Rosé, Yoona, and Jennie have ignited discussions about the treatment of K-pop idols and the broader implications of racism within the fashion world. As K-pop continues to gain traction globally, it is crucial for the industry to address these issues head-on.

The Impact of K-pop on Korean Culture

The rise of K-pop has significantly impacted Korean culture, introducing diverse artistic expressions to a global audience. However, the continual challenges faced by artists highlight the need for a more inclusive and equitable approach within the industry.

As the spotlight remains on K-pop, it is vital to advocate for change and support artists who confront discrimination. The recent events involving Rosé serve as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done to ensure fairness and equality within the world of fashion and entertainment.

This brief was automatically generated from official updates. For in-depth coverage, visit our Trends section.