The global K-pop sensation BLACKPINK has recently found itself in the middle of a heated controversy after pre-debut videos allegedly containing racial slurs resurfaced online. The controversy was started by an anonymous individual claiming to be a former employee of YG Entertainment, who took to Discord to leak sensitive information about BLACKPINK members Jennie, Lisa, Rosé, and Jisoo, as well as other South Korean celebrities associated with the entertainment giant.
Where everything started
Over the past weekend, the K-pop industry was shocked when an unidentified individual known as "YG Leaker" came on Discord, threatening to reveal confidential information from the entertainment sector. This self-proclaimed former employee of YG Entertainment claimed they had been wrongfully removed from the company and now aimed to expose the inner workings of the industry.
In a series of messages, "YG Leaker" accused YG Entertainment of cultivating a toxic work environment, giving examples of harassment, racial discrimination, and gender bias. These allegations quickly gained traction, leaving fans and industry insiders divided.
One of the heated controversies erupted when the individual uploaded a series of old videos featuring BLACKPINK's Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa. These recordings, which have since gone viral, allegedly capture the idols uttering the offensive term multiple times during the pre-debut performance.
The whistleblower further stated that they had several terabytes of accusing data, including private conversations, videos, and internal company documents. Although the primary focus was on YG Entertainment, the leaker also hinted at exposing dark secrets from other major K-pop agencies, such as SM Entertainment, HYBE Labels, JYP Entertainment, RBW, Blockberry Creative, WM Entertainment, and Starship Entertainment.
Divided fan reactions
Despite these accusations, many K-pop fans remain sceptical. Some believe the alleged leaks to be exaggerated, pointing out that online fan communities often engage in speculative discussions that turn into baseless rumours. Others argue that if the claims hold any truth, it could lead to significant consequences for the entertainment industry.
However, neither YG Entertainment nor BLACKPINK members have reacted to these rumours.
