‘SNL Korea’ Faces Backlash Over Alleged Racism in NewJeans’ Hanni Parody; Fans Call for Apology

The recent episode of ‘SNL Korea Season 6′ on Coupang Play, which aired on the 19th, has ignited controversy following a parody featuring Hanni from NewJeans. In this episode, actor Kim Eui-sung performed a comedy sketch alongside Ji Ye-eun, who played the role of Hanni, depicting a character that recently attended a National Assembly hearing.

Kim Eui-sung portrayed the CEO of Hanwha Ocean, who was shown taking a selfie with Hanni during the assembly event, adding a comedic flair to the situation.

However, following the release of this sketch, several netizens voiced their disapproval, labeling it as “racist” and “mocking the victim,” with some questioning the need for such a parody. Conversely, others defended the sketch as merely comedic, leading to extensive discussions across social media platforms.

On October 15, Hanni and ADOR CEO Kim Joo-young participated as a witness and reference, respectively, in a National Assembly Environment and Labor Committee hearing, where topics including idol bullying and the inadequate handling of such matters were addressed.

This marked a significant moment, as it was the first instance of an active idol appearing before the National Assembly, with Hanni receiving considerable support from both fans and the public for her voluntary attendance on behalf of NewJeans.

Despite this, the depiction of Hanni on ‘SNL,’ especially with the exaggerated portrayal of her foreign accent and overly dramatized emotional scenes, led many viewers to feel that the show was ridiculing her. Consequently, numerous fans have taken to online platforms to demand an apology from ‘SNL.’ While artistic freedom is a fundamental right, the reaction to this particular sketch has left many fans feeling disheartened.

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