Why Blackpink’s Cultural Appropriation is Problematic and Needs to Stop

Introduction

Cultural appropriation is a widespread issue in the entertainment industry and has been present for a long time. The K-pop industry is no exception, with multiple controversies arising in recent years regarding the appropriation of various cultures. The latest in this string of controversies involves the popular K-pop girl band, Blackpink, who have been accused of cultural appropriation in their performances. In this blog article, we will explore why Blackpink’s cultural appropriation is problematic and needs to stop.

What is Cultural Appropriation?

Cultural appropriation is the act of taking elements of a culture that is not one’s own, without proper understanding or respect for that culture. It can take many forms – from wearing traditional attire as a fashion statement to using cultural elements in performances. However, cultural appropriation becomes a problem when it perpetuates harmful stereotypes or ignores the historical and cultural significance of what is being appropriated.

The Issue with Blackpink’s Cultural Appropriation

Blackpink has been accused of cultural appropriation on multiple occasions, with some of their music videos and performances being heavily criticized for their cultural insensitivity. One example is their music video “How You Like That,” in which the members can be seen wearing traditional Indian jewelry and clothing. While some fans of the group may argue that it’s just an aesthetic choice, the reality is that it ignores the cultural significance of the attire.

Furthermore, Blackpink has also been criticized for their performances that include Native American headdresses and other culturally significant items. These items hold deep meaning for those cultures, and it is inappropriate to use them as mere props in performances.

Why Cultural Appropriation is Problematic

Cultural appropriation reinforces harmful stereotypes and diminishes the significance of cultural traditions. When certain cultures are taken and used by others for the sake of aesthetics or entertainment, it can perpetuate damaging stereotypes and lead to cultural erasure. This, in turn, contributes to the marginalization of minority cultures.

Additionally, cultural appropriation is often linked to profit motives, with cultural elements being commodified and sold without any acknowledgement or respect for the culture they come from. When cultural elements are taken without permission and used for personal gain, it is an act of exploitation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Blackpink’s cultural appropriation is a problem that needs to be addressed. While these instances may seem harmless or purely for aesthetics, they can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and contribute to cultural erasure. It’s important to remember that cultures are not costumes that can be used for entertainment purposes, but rather complex and meaningful traditions that deserve respect and understanding. As fans, we must hold our favorite artists accountable for their actions and demand that they educate themselves on the cultural significance of what they are using in their performances.