Girls' Generation's Yoona, attending the 2024 Cannes Film Festival as the only Korean ambassador for a jewelry brand, faced racially discriminatory treatment from a security guard. International media, including the Times of India, reported the incident on May 26.
Appearing in a stunning pink dress, Yoona shone on the red carpet. However, as she attempted to pose for photographs while ascending the stairs, a female security guard blocked her with her hand.
Despite Yoona's calm reaction, the guard prevented her from posing, gesturing for her to move quickly into the venue.
"Yoona's reaction appeared calm, but she clearly looked uncomfortable," noted the media.
Yoona entered the venue with a disappointed look, highlighting the incident's emotional impact. IN CASE YOU MISSED THIS: Did SNSD YoonA Serve Looks at Cannes? K-Netz Show Mixed Reactions for THIS Reason The incident involving Yoona is not isolated. Reports indicate that the same security guard displayed similar behavior towards other women of color, while white women faced no such interference.
Finding out that security racist woman at Cannes did the same thing to yoona on the red carpet??? Like why is she still there and not fired after Kelly rowland’s situation ???? pic.twitter.com/X3JnpLUXAd
— Rockville⁷🇬🇭🇬🇧 (@4lynnie_NY) May 25, 2024
African-American singer Kelly Rowland and Dominican actress Massiel Taveras also experienced discriminatory treatment at the festival.
Videos circulating on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) show Kelly Rowland pushing the security guard and protesting vigorously. In another video, Massiel Taveras is seen arguing with a guard after being pushed and verbally abused.
Dominican actress Massiel Taveras was moved out of the carpet as she posed for photos at the Cannes Film Festival.
— sorinnicola9698380606 (@alocin969873912) May 26, 2024
The same security guard was involved in an incident with Kelly Rowland.
-> LiveLeak pic.twitter.com/8vAkxC3UQz
Taveras took to Instagram to express her frustration, stating,
"I was racially discriminated against at the Cannes Film Festival. A security guard pushed me and used abusive language."
As these incidents have come to light, netizens are demanding immediate action against the security guard involved. The public outcry calls for her dismissal and an investigation into the festival's handling of security and racial bias.
The Cannes Film Festival, renowned for its celebration of global cinema, now faces scrutiny over its commitment to diversity and inclusion. The treatment of Yoona, Kelly Rowland, and Massiel Taveras underscores the urgent need for addressing racial discrimination at high-profile events.
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Written by Cassidy Jones.
