A BTS fan raises her “Army Bomb” light stick amongst the crowd. Photo courtesy of SibRapid/Shutterstock
By Melanie Pullins
Howard University News Service
WASHINGTON — Many Black girls have found a sense of belonging and empowerment in Asian pop culture, engaging through music, concerts, fan art and dance covers to connect with a global community.
Reinah McNeil, a longtime K-pop fan, said immersing herself in the genre helped her discover her true self.
“As I have gotten older, my relationship with K-pop has gotten more nuanced,” said McNeil.”I have found self-expression in K-pop. That’s something I will never regret.”
McNeil’s experience echoes that of many Black girls who have found a sense of belonging and empowerment in Asian pop culture. This trend is not without its complexities. Black fans often navigate a delicate balance between appreciation and appropriation, particularly given K-pop’s history of borrowing from Black culture.
Some face criticism from within their communities for embracing a culture perceived as foreign or distant.
Despite these challenges, many Black girls find that their involvement in K-pop and J-pop spaces allows them to explore aspects of their identity that may not be fully expressed in mainstream American culture.
The emphasis on fashion, self-expression and tight-knit fan communities resonates strongly with many young Black women.
The impact of this cultural cross-pollination extends beyond firsthand experiences. As Black fans become more visible, they challenge industry norms and push for better representation overall.
Some K-pop and J-pop acts have begun to acknowledge their Black fan base more explicitly, featuring Black choreographers such as Kany Diabaté Ahn and Latrice Kabamba.
As the Korean wave continues to increase, it raises important questions about the future of popular culture globally and the role of Black women in shaping it. For many Black girls, their journey into K-pop and J-pop is more than just a passing interest — it’s a form of self-discovery and empowerment that challenges cultural norms.
This fusion isn’t complete without Black women while navigating a line between appropriation and appreciation.
Melanie Pullins is a Reporter for HUNewsService.com
