OMEGA X’s Sebin Accused Of Making “Anti-Black” And “Colorist” Remarks
Boy group OMEGA X‘s Sebin has recently been accused of making “anti-black and colorist” remarks. Fans have stepped up to address the issue and seek an apology from the star.
IPQ, please see this letter from For X regarding the words of Omega X member Jang Sebin. @IPQ_Inc #Omega_X #For_X #장세빈 #오메가엑스 #프엑기 pic.twitter.com/Ln2X8CtT2i
— ness (@plantedherb) May 24, 2024
According to fans, he had made “anti-black, colorist remarks to For X (fans) that were subscribed to his 1:1 Fromm messages.” The messages are part of a private messaging subscription service.
The messages that have been deemed problematic are as follows. The auto-translation tool was not fully accurate, leading to even greater misunderstanding. A more accurate translation can be found after the picture.
- “For X babies are pretty even if they get tanned! Not me though!”
- “What should I do if I get tan?”
- “You’re saying men are pretty even if they are tan? I refute.”
As summer approaches in South Korea, many are naturally worried about sun exposure and turning tan. It is likely that a fan mentioned their worries about the hot season, leading to Sebin trying to comfort them. Later on, he indicated his own personal preference for his own skin tone. The words for “tan” in Korean are the same as the words for “burn” and “black,” leading to an even greater misunderstanding with auto-translation tools. Nevertheless, Sebin’s indication of his preference through a public platform could lead to some fans feeling hurt and excluded.
A fan gave their two cents on the issue, claiming that it was his personal preference, rather than colorism.
I love OX but I'm also against any kind of prejudice, BUT sometimes we really NEED to see the context… so that's what I'm doing
I'm a poc too, and of course I would be offended if that was the case, but as I did the research and also asked my korean teacher, this is my take: pic.twitter.com/9s13bjroyH
— dylan | 💚 Ωx¹¹ (@takeemall96) May 24, 2024
They further supplemented their point that Sebin’s remarks should not be taken literally. Some other fans have indicated their agreement.
With K-Pop becoming global, it is important for artists to be aware of such sensitive topics and to conduct themselves in the best way possible. Some entertainment agencies are already pushing classes on global issues to their trainees to avoid such mishaps. You can read more about them below.
HYBE Is Educating Its Trainees On Cultural Diversity & Social Topics
