In a now-deleted post on Bubble, RIIZE’s Eunseok drew backlash after using the Korean term "kkamdungi" while referring to a childhood photo of himself. The image showed him in a yellow polo shirt and a black sun hat, looking tanned in the summer sun.
In the caption, he used the term while describing his appearance. While some fans argued that the word can be interpreted in a playful or casual way in certain Korean contexts, others took offence to it, comparing it to derogatory language used against people with dark skin. Some fans who used google translate to understand the Korean caption even found the word to be equivilant to a racial slur.
Fans voiced anger over the post, arguing that Eunseok should have been more aware of how the term could be received. Others stressed that regardless of intent, the word carries racially insensitive undertones. One netizen wrote, ‘Let’s not act like this isn’t a racial slur/he didn’t know what he was saying in the year of our Lord 2026. Approach ANY Korean here and they will tell you what that word means. He messed up. BIG TIME.’
As the backlash continues, the incident highlights the growing expectations for cultural awareness in the K-pop landscape. While interpretations of language may differ across contexts, fans are calling for greater sensitivity and accountability from artists whose words reach audiences worldwide. Moving forward, how Eunseok and his team respond will likely shape the conversation around responsibility, education, and respect within the industry.
Like what you read? Show our writer some love!
3