BTS V sparks debate on cultural appropriation after wearing durag on livestream

K-Pop boy band BTS member V stirred up controversy during his recent Weverse livestream on October 8 when he donned a durag, leaving fans divided over whether it constituted cultural appropriation and disrespect to Black culture.

But is this truly the case? Let's delve into the matter to uncover the truth.

What happened during the livestream?

•   On October 8, V, a prominent member of the popular K-Pop boy band BTS, hosted a live session on Weverse. During the stream, he shared his afterparty experience with American rapper and singer Lil Uzi Vert.

• It was during this session that V drew attention by trying on a red durag that was hanging nearby on a piece of gym equipment.
• He mentioned that the durag was a gift.

Given BTS's vast global fanbase, many individuals from around the world expressed concerns during the livestream, interpreting V's actions as potentially culturally insensitive and disrespectful to Black culture.

This sparked debates regarding whether anyone can wear a durag, resulting in varying opinions on the idol's behaviour.

But what exactly is a durag, and what is its significance in Black culture? Let's explore.

• A durag is a type of headwear crafted from silky or velvet-like fabric, primarily utilized for hair protection and styling, especially for individuals with waves or braids.

• Durags originated as hairstyling tools during the 1930s, with their roots traced back to the Harlem Renaissance and the Great Depression.
• They subsequently evolved into a fashion statement during the 1960s and '70s, coinciding with the Black pride movement.
• Even before the fashion industry took notice, durags had already gained popularity as a staple of streetwear. In the 1990s, prominent rappers such as Jay-Z, Nelly, and 50 Cent further elevated their status.
• Today, durags are experiencing a resurgence, partly thanks to contemporary rappers like A$AP Ferg and the popularity of the waves hairstyle.

For Black individuals, durags serve both a practical function in caring for their hair and a means of celebrating cultural aesthetics while challenging stereotypes. As a result, they hold significant cultural and historical value within the Black community, symbolizing strength and cultural heritage.

While anyone can technically wear a durag, it is essential to be mindful of the intent behind wearing one to avoid cultural appropriation, given its strong association with African American culture.