THE BLACK LABEL’s Co-Ed Group ALLDAY Project Faces Cultural Appropriation Backlash Before Debut

On June 8, THE BLACK LABEL revealed their newly announced co-ed group ALLDAY Project‘s lineup, which had already stirred attention due to its mixed-gender concept and rumored members like former ILLIT trainee Youngseo and rising talent Annie Moon. However, instead of just anticipation, the debut is now shadowed by allegations of cultural appropriation.

The issue stems from one of the group’s confirmed members, model Lee Chaewon, who performs under the stage name Tarzzan. Known for his appearance in NewJeans’ “Supernatural” music video and his growing presence on Instagram, Tarzzan has shared multiple images featuring himself in various braided hairstyles — styles that many netizens point out are closely tied to Black culture.

One newly released promotional photo of ALLDAY Project also shows Tarzzan sporting braids, which has reignited criticism. Online communities have voiced their discomfort, labeling the hairstyle choice as inappropriate and insensitive, especially in the context of an idol group debuting on the global stage.

Some fans expressed their disappointment, “I was excited about the group, especially with Annie and Youngseo, but this makes it hard to support.” Others demanded a response from THE BLACK LABEL, urging the agency to address the issue proactively.

While cultural appropriation in K-pop remains a recurring controversy, the early backlash toward ALLDAY Project highlights the heightened sensitivity and global awareness surrounding cultural respect in the entertainment industry.