'Black' Kani bows head amid racial discrimination controversy: "I sincerely regret it" [Star Issue]

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

Dancer Kani directly apologized for the racial discrimination controversy.

On the 10th, Kani posted on their personal account, "First of all, I sincerely apologize to everyone who has been hurt or felt discomfort due to my words."

Kani stated, "In the video, I mentioned watermelon, chicken, and Fanta while making an impromptu joke. I understand that this combination, particularly watermelon and fried chicken, carries a painful history of racial stereotypes in the United States. I sincerely regret that my words may have caused hurt."

Kani, who revealed that they were born and raised in France and are a Senegalese Black person, said, "In my experience with Senegalese culture, watermelon is a fruit we commonly enjoy, and chicken is an important part of our cuisine. Also, Fanta is a familiar beverage in many African households." They added, "When I made that joke, I was recalling familiar cultural elements, not consciously referencing American racial stereotypes."

Additionally, Kani explained, "During the filming, I never used the term 'soul food.' It was added as subtitles during the editing process. I believe this may have caused misunderstanding."

They then apologized again, saying, "Through this incident, I have once again realized that I must be more careful about how my words are received in different cultural contexts. Going forward, I will accept that responsibility with sincerity and seriousness."

Previously, on the 4th, Kani uploaded a video to their YouTube channel showing them visiting a fruit wholesale market with their husband.

At the time, when asked what kind of fruit they liked, Kani answered, "Honestly, Black people probably all like watermelon. Black people like watermelon, chicken, and Fanta."

Subsequently, controversy erupted as it was pointed out that these foods could be linked to racial stereotypes directed at Black people in the United States.

Meanwhile, Kani is a choreographer and dancer born in 1986 from France, who married a Korean person three years older than them in 2022.

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original