BABYMONSTER Ahyeon Faces Controversy Ahead of Debut for Using 'N-word' in Past Clip

Ahead of her official debut, BABYMONSTER Ahyeon is in hot water after using the "n-word" in a past video.

Here's the full story.

BAEMON Ahyeon Criticized for Using the 'N-word' in Pre-Debut Performance

Ahyeon, one of the most-anticipated BABYMONSTER members, is receiving flak for her pre-debut school performance.

The issue started when internet users shared online the soon-to-debut idol's past performance video in Hanlim Multi Art School. There, Ahyeon is doing a cover of Nicki Minaj's "Feeling Myself," as well as Bruno Mars's "Finesse" (feat. Cardi B).

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The performance showed the then-trainee's rapping and singing skills. Unfortunately, her singing the explicit content of the song earned the viewers' ire, especially that Ahyeon repeatedly used the "n-word."

The "n-word" is commonly used by African Americans and black people, in general, to greet the same race in a friendly or in an insulting fashion.

Other races using it is a big NO. It could be seen as derogatory, discriminatory, and inappropriate. 

International K-pop fans are sensitive when it comes to this subject matter.

In fact, prior to Ahyeon, numerous K-pop idols and trainees had been canceled for using this n-word, such as aespa Giselle, Stray Kids Jisung, MAMAMOO Hwasa, BTS RM, TWICE Momo, BLACKPINK Jennie and more.

BABYMONSTER Ahyeon Urged To Apologize for Using the 'N-word'

Following this issue, fans expressed their frustration to YG Entertainment, and urged the company to have Ahyeon apologize. They demand the up-and-coming idol to speak up now to avoid repercussions that might affect BABYMONSTER.

Meanwhile, some still defended the trainee by explaining that she was young when it happened and didn't know what it means.

Others, however, were skeptic since Ahyeon has been learning English since she was five years old. People implied that although she might not be aware of its discriminatory background, she might've come across the word already since she's an aspiring rapper and singer as well.

K-pop fans are taking the issue on BABYMONSTER's official Instagram and since then have been commenting on Ahyeon's photos to get an explanation.

  • "Once you decided to become an idol, there's no such place called 'young,' you must be sorry for what you did or you are such a racist yourself."
  • "Ahyeon, you have disappointed fans by saying a racial slur, that was extremely disrespectful. Please apologize to the people you have disrespected."
  • "Where is the apology?"
  • "We know something we hold you accountable but we're not gonna defend you so please do apologize."
  • "We would like to tell you some concerns about the recent performance at Hanlim. We found out that Ahyeon used racist remarks during the performance. This choice of language is very inappropriate and offensive to the community. We sincerely hope to reflect on the influence of language and the importance of cultural sensitivity. It is important to understand the historical and social meanings behind such language and the adverse effects it can cause.
  • We sincerely hope that you will publicly apologize to the black community for choosing the word. Apologizing and taking responsibility for one's actions will demonstrate growth, maturity, and commitment to creating a more inclusive environment for all. We believe that through genuine regret and educational efforts, we can learn from mistakes and contribute to a more harmonious society."

READ MORE: THIS BABYMONSTER Member Might Be Group's 'Ace' – Here's Why

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KpopStarz owns this article.
Written by Eunice Dawson.

Tags
YG Entertainment
racial slur
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