Korean Media Faces Backlash

Hollywood superstars Zendaya, Timothée Chalamet, and Austin Butler are currently on a promotional tour for their upcoming film Dune 2, traveling overseas to engage with fans and promote the film. Their recent arrival in Korea for event promotions was met with considerable excitement. However, enthusiasm turned to scrutiny when people noticed something unusual in Zendaya's picture afterward.

The renowned star who identifies as African American met with a warm welcome as she arrived at the airport rocking the long black trenchcoat. Alongside, both Chalamet and Zendaya embraced the local culture, donning outfits crafted by Korean designer Juun.J. However, fans were taken aback when they noticed Zendaya's complexion appeared washed out in several photos from the Dune: Part 2 promotions in Korea, nearly blending with Chalamet's, contrary to non-whitewashed photos.

Over time, fans have consistently spoken out against the practice of whitewashing idols with deeper skin tones. This involves editing photos and videos to make their skin appear lighter, aligning with industry beauty standards. So, this time it happened again during the viral ‘aegyo’ moment of the stars, the internet failed to maintain calm.

“Not even Zendaya is safe from Korean's weird obsession with whitewashing”, a user wrote on the internet displeased with the whitewashed treatment. Others said, The Korean media whitewashing ZENDAYA!! They will whitewash anyone and everyone…, “ZENDAYA NOT ESCAPING THE WHITEWASHING????????”, “YALL WHITEWASHING ZENDAYA I CANT”, “zendaya being a victim of whitewashing too.”

Denis Villeneuve's highly anticipated Dune: Part Two is scheduled to hit the theatres on March 1, 2024. The film has received thrilling first reactions and impressive reviews. Read here. Apart from the leading members, the film also stars Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin, Dave Bautista, Stellan Skarsgård, Charlotte Rampling, and Javier Bardem with Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, Christopher Walken, and Léa Seydoux in key roles.