BTS Faces Massive Backlash For “Whitewashing” Black Students In Arirang Animation Trailer!

Recently, BTS released an animation trailer for their new album, ARIRANG, and it created a massive buzz online.

Recently, BTS released an animation trailer for their new album, ARIRANG, and it created a massive buzz online. Fans loved the meaning and the visuals. However, a massive part of the video left many disappointed. In the video, almost everyone in the classroom and crowd looks non-Black, with just one or two Black characters shown.

Lots of people felt this characterisation was wrong. They said it felt like the video erased the actual Black students who studied there and made the place what it was. Some called it whitewashing because it changed who was really in the room back then. Fans shared their disappointment online, saying it disrespected Black history.

Documenting: BTS ARIRANG animation trailer inaccurate depiction of Howard University which is a HBCU (Historically black colleges and universities) as the place where ARIRANG was recorded by 7 Korean Men. pic.twitter.com/PnYetrQjjz

— Oliv⁷ 🍉🐋🏴‍☠️ #SpeakYourselfBTS (@N_P_E_A) March 15, 2026

One user, @RebeccaKwanga, wrote, “@bts_bighit This animation is historically inaccurate. Howard University is a Historically Black University, founded to provide educational opportunities for Black students. In 1896, during segregation, the majority of students were Black, yet the animation shows mostly white.”

Another user, @13_Gems_17, wrote, “Howard University is a historically black university, yet I only see two black people. The support (& influence) black people have provided them in their musical history and yet they still can’t be accurate and pay proper homage to the people who welcomed & supported them, smh.”

However, not everyone saw it the same way. Some fans defended the team and explained that the trailer is only an artistic story, not a history lesson. They reminded people about the disclaimer saying it’s not fully accurate. A few pointed out that Howard had white teachers and students in those early days too, including people who helped record Arirang.

Also Read: Here’s Why BTS’ Arirang Animation Trailer, Album Cover Feels Emotional And Already Legendary!

The debate is still going strong on social media platforms. Many ARMYs care deeply about these things because BTS has always talked about respect, culture, and understanding different backgrounds. Even with the criticism, the trailer got people excited for the full album coming out on March 20.

What are your thoughts? Let us know all about it!

Also Read: BTS Drop ARIRANG Tracklist, Diplo And Ryan Tedder Producer Credits Divide Fans

First Published: March 16, 2026 6:04 PM