Hearts2Hearts members apologize following criticism over Afro-style wigs on Japanese variety show

Members of Hearts2Hearts have apologized after a segment on a Japanese variety program featuring Afro-style wigs drew criticism for racial insensitivity.

On August 14 KST, Jiwoo addressed the controversy through the fan community platform Weverse, acknowledging that she had not fully considered how her actions could be perceived by others.

“When I wore the wig during filming, I did not think deeply enough about what my actions could mean or that they could hurt someone,” Jiwoo wrote.

She added that she had been listening to the concerns raised following the broadcast and had come to understand why her actions were considered inappropriate.

“I am learning from what many people have said, and I now understand why what I did was wrong. I am sincerely sorry,” she said. “From now on, both I and our members will think more carefully and act with greater consideration.”

Juun also issued an apology, saying she had reflected on her behavior during filming and realized she should have been more thoughtful in the moment.

“I never intended to hurt or disrespect anyone, but I understand that my actions may have hurt people, and I am sincerely sorry,” she wrote, adding that she would learn from the experience and be more mindful going forward.

Ye-on similarly reflected on the impact an action can have regardless of the intention behind it.

“Through this experience, I have reflected and learned a lot about how my actions can affect others regardless of my intentions,” she said. “In the future, I will think more deeply about how my actions may be received and act with greater care and responsibility. I sincerely apologize to everyone who was hurt or disappointed because of me.”

The controversy stems from Hearts2Hearts’ appearance on the August 12 broadcast of Japanese streaming platform ABEMA’s special program celebrating the group’s Japanese debut, Celebration! Hearts2Hearts’ Owarai Dojo.

The program featured the members taking on various challenges inspired by Japanese variety comedy. During a “monoboke” segment, in which participants use provided props to improvise jokes, some members put on Afro-style wigs and performed an impromptu Michael Jackson-inspired routine.

After clips of the segment circulated online, some international viewers criticized the scene as racially insensitive, prompting Jiwoo, Juun, and Ye-on to personally address the backlash and apologize.