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In recent years, the MET Gala has expanded its reach to include K-pop superstars among its esteemed guests. While some notable names were conspicuously absent from this year’s event, it also marked the debut of several stars. Among them were Stray Kids, the sensational idol group, who were poised to make a splash on the grand stage of art and fashion.
However, what should have been a memorable night for Stray Kids turned sour due to a series of unfortunate incidents. Despite their role as global ambassadors for Tommy Hilfiger, the eight-member group encountered challenges that marred their experience on the prestigious red carpet of the New York City Metropolitan Museum of Art.
In particular, the group faced unsettling comments from photographers at the event, casting a shadow over their appearance. This treatment sparked understandable outrage and disappointment among fans and observers, irrespective of their allegiance to Stray Kids’ fandom. The incident raises a troubling question: was the treatment of Stray Kids at the MET Gala a manifestation of racism against its members?
As Stray Kids finds itself at the center of speculation regarding a potential comeback, the events of the MET Gala underscore the challenges and obstacles that K-pop artists may encounter as they navigate international platforms. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing and confronting issues of discrimination and bias, even within the glamorous world of entertainment and fashion.
Was Stray Kids subject to racism at the MET Gala?
The paparazzi HIGHLY disrespected #Stray_Kids at the #MetGala2024…Meantime, @AboutMusicYT stated #StrayKids was the most mentioned celebrity during the Met Gala on Twitter! AND on top of that, #StrayKids announced their comeback July 19th!#StrayKids_MetGala #StrayKidsComeback pic.twitter.com/rBPJzCtPMO
— That Kpop Talk (@ThatKpopTalk) May 9, 2024
The disregard for K-pop culture within the industry is unfortunately nothing new, as even globally renowned acts like BTS have faced their share of racism and discrimination in the West. The recent incident involving Stray Kids sheds light on the pervasive issue, revealing a disturbing lack of respect and empathy among certain photographers towards foreign artists.
The disrespect shown towards Stray Kids was evident from the moment they arrived on the red carpet. As the group removed their coats to reveal their outfits, photographers expressed dissatisfaction at the prospect of taking additional pictures, displaying an unprofessional demeanor unbefitting of their role at such a prestigious event. Some even made derogatory remarks, suggesting that the group should start performing or making inappropriate comments about their ethnicity.
The use of racially insensitive language further exacerbated the situation. When Bangchan, the leader of Stray Kids, signaled for the group to leave amidst the chaos, a photographer made a racially charged comment, asking how to say “RUN!” in Korean followed by a misplaced “Arigato,” a Japanese term. This linguistic blunder perpetuated the harmful stereotype that all Asians are interchangeable, highlighting the deeply ingrained racism at play.
Despite the blatant disrespect, Bang Chan maintained composure during a subsequent interview, choosing to focus on the positive aspects of the experience rather than dwelling on the unfortunate incident.
The backlash from fans was swift and resounding, with many taking to social media to condemn the racist behavior exhibited by the photographers. Comments expressing outrage and solidarity flooded online platforms, underscoring the importance of standing up against discrimination in all its forms. The incident also prompted broader discussions within the K-pop community and beyond, drawing attention to the systemic issues of racism and xenophobia that persist in society.
While the organizers of the MET Gala have remained silent on the matter, the controversy has sparked widespread awareness and dialogue surrounding the treatment of foreign artists in the entertainment industry.