LE SSERAFIM Chaewon Draws Flak For Recent Styling — Is It Cultural Appropriation?

LE SSERAFIM Chaewon drew flak for her hairstyle in her latest music show appearance.

On February 19, 2024, LE SSERAFIM released their third mini-album, "EASY." Since then, they have been promoting the lead single, also titled "EASY," on several music shows.

Though fans have loved the release, the girls have been the center of negative attention after their live vocals were criticized during encore stages.

Now, however, Chaewon is being dragged for another reason.

LE SSERAFIM Chaewon Accused of Cultural Appropriation With Recent Styling

Earlier this month, LE SSERAFIM performed "EASY" on Mnet's "M! Countdown." Though the performance went under the radar when it was first released online, a TikTok edit of Chaewon during the encore stage has gone viral and garnered much attention.

In the video, Chaewon's hair is seen styled into a multipe braid and covered in a beanie. Her hairstyle has garnered massive backlash among international K-pop fans, with some saying the styling is believed to be copying the appearance of butterfly braids or locks.

This hairstyle is commonly worn by people of African descent. The braids usually cater to those with curly hair, and the beanie Chaewon wears is believed to be an alternative to a durag.

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These forms of braids have massive historical value for black people, who have faced criticism and backlash for their hair and have been victims of discrimination because of it.

These braids used to be slammed for being dirty and looking unkempt, but black people have fought to own the hairstyle with pride.

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Therefore, using this hairstyle as an aesthetic is seen as disregarding the hardships and efforts black people have gone through to retain their culture.

Chaewon happily performing while having this hairstyle earned her massive backlash.

However, some fans have defended Chaewon. Some believe the criticism should be aimed at LE SSERAFIM's stylists and that the idol may not have had a say in her styling. However, some believe Chaewon and LE SSERAFIM as a whole have the ability to speak up about what they wear.

What do you think of the situation? Tell us in the comments below!

LE SSERAFIM Recent Activities

On February 23, 2024, LE SSERAFIM released the English version of "EASY." An English version of "SMART" was released on March 22.

LE SSERAFIM released "Dresscode" on November 19, 2023. The song serves as the OST of the Japanese live-action television series of the manga series "Sexy Tanaka-san."

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Written by Alexa Lopez