The K-pop industry, celebrated for its worldwide appeal and meticulously crafted image, has faced a wave of controversies in 2025. From accusations of cultural insensitivity to serious concerns regarding exploitation, these incidents have ignited fervent discussions among fans, critics, and industry professionals alike.
Here, we delve into some of the most significant controversies that have recently emerged within the K-pop scene.
Cultural Appropriation Concerns: The Case of Kiss of Life
Among the most notable controversies this year is the backlash directed at the girl group Kiss of Life. The group’s hip-hop-themed livestream event on April 2 drew heavy criticism for the members’ exaggerated hip-hop attire and the use of pseudo-Black accents. Many critics accused the group of trivializing and mocking Black culture, further perpetuating negative stereotypes.
In response to the outrage, both their management, S2 Entertainment, and the members issued apologies. Despite these efforts, the incident resulted in a staggering loss of over 200, 000 Instagram followers and amplified calls for enhanced cultural sensitivity training across the K-pop industry.
Blackpink’s Controversy Over the N-Word
Another significant controversy revolved around Blackpink when archival audition footage surfaced showing members Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa using the N-word while singing along to song lyrics. These incidents occurred prior to their official debut, yet they sparked a demand for accountability from both the girl group and their agency, YG Entertainment.
Concerns Over Child Exploitation in “Under15”
Fierce scrutiny arose regarding the audition show “Under15”, which featured contestants as young as eight years old performing suggestive routines. Promotional content depicting minors in heavy makeup and revealing clothing triggered outrage and raised alarms about the sexualization of children. The backlash was so severe that the show was subsequently cancelled, mere days before its planned premiere on March 31. Critics condemned the concept for viewing these young contestants as merely “products”for entertainment.
Allegations of Poaching in the Industry
The year has also seen a rise in disputes surrounding poaching allegations. SM Entertainment has accused rapper MC Mong and Cha Ga-won of interfering with the contractual relations of EXO-CBX members during an ongoing legal dispute. These types of accusations have spread to other groups like Omega X and Fifty Fifty, highlighting the competitive nature of the K-pop scene.
The Ongoing Legal Challenge of NewJeans
Currently, the dispute involving NewJeans and their agency, Ador—a subsidiary of HYBE—remains a major issue. The group announced their intention to leave Ador in late 2024, citing allegations of contract breaches and mistreatment. Furthermore, member Hanni’s testimony before the National Assembly regarding workplace harassment has sparked significant public debate concerning artists’ rights, contract validity, and the inherent power dynamics between talent agencies and their idols. This situation has led to accusations of “tampering, ”with claims that artists are being encouraged to breach existing contracts in favor of new arrangements.
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