THE BLACK LABEL is facing backlash over cultural appropriation in its new co-ed group ALLDAY Project. The controversy centers on member Lee Chaewon, aka Tarzzan, known for sporting multiple braided hairstyles linked to Black culture.
The new group was announced on June 8, 2025, less than a year after MEOVV debuted. Fans were already intrigued by the rumored co-ed lineup featuring ex-ILLIT members Youngseo and Annie Moon. But Tarzzan’s styling has sparked immediate outrage online.
Tarzzan, who appeared in NJZ’s (NewJeans) “Supernatural” MV, posted Instagram photos showing braids in different styles. His latest group photo also features him with braids. Many fans called this cultural appropriation, saying it’s offensive and questioning the company’s cultural sensitivity.
“so disappointing we could’ve had a perfect lineup with all adults but he’s here just to ruin the group i hope we can get @THEBLACKLABEL attention about our concerns #TARZZAN_OUT”
— magical girl amze ✷ˎ-ˊ (@chaeizm)
“TARZZAN (@tarzzan_boy) is a pick from the group i SEVERELY DISLIKE. His excessive use of Black aesthetics and the concept of durags and scalped-up braids cannot be ignored. @THEBLACKLABEL You all should have known better.”
— qimme (kpop is NOT okay) (@qimmethatbeat)
“Very happy for Youngseo but like seriously what is going on with this dude like do they have no cultural sensitivity advisors at all at tbl #TARZZAN_OUT”
— ⚢ magical girl Jamie ྀི¹² (@runasspacebuns)
Fans are demanding THE BLACK LABEL address concerns about Tarzzan’s styling and cultural insensitivity. The situation is still developing as the group gears up for debut.
