The global success of K-pop has brought with it growing scrutiny over how the industry engages with Black culture—both in influence and representation.

A recent teaser video tied to BTS’ latest project has reignited that conversation. The video features scenes set at Howard University, one of the nation’s most prominent historically Black colleges and universities. While intended to highlight a historical connection between Korean musicians and the United States, the portrayal has drawn criticism for what many viewers say is a lack of authentic representation of the campus and its legacy.

In the animated scenes, the university appears populated largely by non-Black figures, with only a few Black individuals visible. For many viewers, that depiction felt like a missed opportunity to reflect the true identity of Howard University and the cultural significance it holds within the Black community.

The backlash has once again placed a spotlight on a broader issue: the K-pop industry’s long-standing reliance on elements of Black culture (particularly in music, fashion and style) without always fully acknowledging or respecting their origins.

From hip-hop and R&B influences to fashion trends rooted in Black communities, K-pop has drawn heavily from cultural expressions that originated in the United States. Critics argue that while these elements are widely embraced, the people and communities behind them are often underrepresented or misunderstood in the final product.

Concerns have also been raised over instances of cultural appropriation involving hairstyles and imagery. Some K-pop artists have faced criticism for adopting looks associated with Black culture, including braids and styles meant to mimic Afro-textured hair, as well as fashion tied to 1990s and early 2000s hip-hop culture.

Another recurring issue involves the use of racially sensitive language. Multiple artists across the industry have been criticized for using or singing along to the ‘n-word’ in songs or online content—incidents that continue to spark frustration among Black audiences.

Despite these concerns, K-pop maintains a strong and loyal following among Black fans, many of whom are drawn to the genre’s creativity, performance and global reach. That dynamic has created a complicated relationship, where admiration for the music exists alongside ongoing calls for accountability.

The recent video involving Howard University underscores that tension. While the project had the potential to celebrate the institution’s history and cultural importance, critics say it ultimately centers a different narrative—focusing more on the presence of Korean musicians than on the legacy of a historically Black campus.

At the same time, some observers note that Howard has historically served as a place of opportunity for marginalized communities, including international artists who may not have been welcomed elsewhere. That spirit of inclusion is an important part of the university’s story, even as debates continue about how it is represented today.

Industry observers say responsibility for these issues often lies less with individual artists and more with entertainment companies and creative teams shaping the content. As K-pop expands into a global market, including partnerships with U.S. labels and the creation of multinational groups, expectations around cultural awareness are also increasing.

Recent developments, including the formation of global groups under major labels, signal that the industry is attempting to evolve. However, controversies surrounding representation and treatment of Black artists and audiences suggest that deeper challenges remain.

For many critics, the path forward requires more than surface-level changes. It calls for a more intentional recognition of the cultural roots that have helped shape K-pop’s global appeal, along with a commitment to more accurate and respectful representation.

As the industry continues to grow, the conversation is unlikely to fade. Instead, it reflects a broader question facing global entertainment: how to celebrate cultural exchange without erasing the communities that made it possible.

(Editor’s note: This story is based on reporting by Taylor Swinton of <HUNewsService.com>.)