Hunter Schafer photos spark whitewashing backlash after Seoul event appearance in Korean media
Courtesy: Anthony Behar / Sipa USA via AP file
American actor Hunter Schafer recently became the subject of an online debate after photos of her appearance at a Gentle Monster event in Seoul circulated in South Korean media. According to a report by Koreaboo, fans noticed that Schafer’s images appeared significantly lighter than her natural skin tone, leading to accusations of “whitewashing.”
hunter schafer at the gentle monster event! pic.twitter.com/cSVyLXrOEY
— hunter schafer gallery. (@schaferfiles) September 3, 2025
how did they managed to whitewash a white person? 😭 pic.twitter.com/3y56y27qGn
The controversy highlights a recurring issue in South Korea’s entertainment industry, where whitening filters and photo edits have long been used on K-pop idols and other celebrities. While some argue it reflects cultural preferences for pale skin, critics say the practice erases natural beauty and promotes unrealistic beauty standards.
no one is safe from korean idol cam whitewashing. not even a white woman 😭 https://t.co/k5TGnrNVX8
Schafer, who attended the event in a striking white dress, was praised for her look in person, but the published photos quickly drew backlash. On social media, fans voiced their frustration. One user pointed out the implications for diversity, writing, “If they’re photographing white people like this imagine how it would look on a Black celebrity.” Another commented that the edits made Schafer appear as though she had “never seen daylight,” questioning why editors felt the need to alter her already fair complexion.
This is not the first time international stars have faced such treatment. Zendaya’s promotional appearances for Dune 2 in Seoul also stirred similar criticism after her photos were edited to lighten her skin tone. Fans at the time condemned the practice, urging photographers and media outlets to represent celebrities authentically.
Despite ongoing conversations about representation, the issue continues to resurface. Fans say it is time for Korean media to stop relying on whitening edits and instead embrace authenticity, allowing celebrities to be celebrated for their natural appearances rather than forced to conform to outdated beauty ideals.