BLACKPINK's ongoing DEADLINE world tour has been making headlines for reasons beyond their music, with the latest stir involving group member Rosé. During a recent Jakarta concert, a video surfaced that shows Rosé performing on stage when she appears to pull her hand back after reaching towards a Black male backup dancer. This brief interaction has ignited a social media debate, with some fans accusing Rosé of racial insensitivity.
The clip quickly circulated on platforms like X, where users dissected the moment, noting the dancer's surprised expression. Opinions are split: some argue it was a matter of awkward timing or choreography, while others believe the gesture was intentional, hinting at racial bias. "It seems more to me like she was just trying to fix the way she holds his hand," one supporter commented, defending the singer.
"If it were a white person, she wouldn’t have done this," claimed one social media user, highlighting the heated nature of the discussion.
As the video continues to gain traction, a mix of criticism and defense has emerged online. Detractors argue that Rosé's actions were deliberate, with one user lamenting, "I feel so bad for him; he felt embarrassed." Criticism extended to the group as a whole, suggesting that BLACKPINK members are "only friendly with certain people when it's convenient."
Conversely, loyal fans have rallied to Rosé's defense, suggesting the incident was a simple misunderstanding. "She is holding a mic; there is barely space for holding his hands," one fan reasoned, pointing out the practical challenges faced during live performances.
This isn't the first time BLACKPINK has faced allegations of insensitivity. Old videos have resurfaced showing members Jennie, Lisa, and Rosé allegedly using racial slurs while singing during their trainee days, further fueling debates around racial sensitivity in the K-pop industry. These clips, reportedly leaked by a former YG Entertainment employee, have drawn criticism from both fans and critics, particularly given the members' backgrounds in English-speaking countries.
As BLACKPINK navigates these controversies, their global success continues, with concerts selling out worldwide. However, the ongoing discussions remind us of the scrutiny that comes with international fame, especially when cultural differences are at play.