BLACKSWAN’s Fatou Calls Out KISS OF LIFE Over Cultural Appropriation Controversy?

BLACKSWAN‘s Fatou, who is well-known as black K-pop idol, has recently addressed the controversy surrounding fellow K-pop group KISS OF LIFE, who faced backlash for alleged cultural appropriation during a birthday livestream. 

Particularly, in the livestream, KISS OF LIFE members were criticized for depicting racial stereotypes, leading to apologies from both their agency and the group members themselves. However, these apologies received mixed reactions from the public. 

Since then, Fatou seems to have taken to social media to express her views on the situation. Without directly naming KISS OF LIFE, she emphasized the importance of addressing and respecting Black culture, stating, “If u wanna apologize to us black people, make sure you address us. Don’t use everything we’ve created, run with it, and then try and acting clueless.” 

She also further emphasized the importance of black/afro music, asking people to conduct thorough research to genuinely understand and respect the cultures they draw inspiration from.

Fatou’s comments have sparked varied reactions online. Some individuals questioned her stance, pointing out her Senegalese background and suggesting that her perspective might differ from that of African Americans, with some even accusing the female idol of trying to get “clout”.

Conversely, many defended her, highlighting Fatou’s position as a Black artist within the K-pop industry and supporting her call for cultural sensitivity and respect.