Rosato Racial discrimination and breast cancer mockery: Fashion magazines face global backlash for irresponsible conduct

“We sincerely apologize that the rosé was cropped due to size limitations. No offense was intended.” — ELLE UK

What started as a routine fashion week post sparked a firestorm of criticism around the world. From racial discrimination allegations involving BLACKPINK ‘s Rosé to W KoreaThe fashion industry’s controversial handling of a breast cancer awareness event, lack of sensitivity and responsibility has been fiercely condemned by netizens around the world.

The controversy began when ELLE UK images shared by San Lorenzo fashion show during Paris Fashion Week. The photos featured Hailey Bieber, Charli XCX and Zoë Kravitz. However, Rosé—San Lorenzois the only global ambassador featured—he was completely cut out, despite appearing in Charli XCX’s original post.

Instead of acknowledging the problem, ELLE UK doubled down, later releasing a 24-hour Instagram Story “apology” blaming the omission “image size constraints” . To many, the gesture seemed hollow, especially considering Rosé’s central role in the event. The apology, lacking permanence or sincerity, only intensified the criticism, with many branding the magazine as racially insensitive and professionally negligent.

At the same time, W Koreaone of South Korea’s most prominent fashion magazines, is under fire for its annual edition “I love your W” campaign, intended to raise awareness about breast cancer. This year, the event was criticized as a “celebrity drinking party” trivializing a serious health cause. The most controversial moment came when the magazine referred to the event as a “breast cancer celebration” igniting fury for mocking a disease that affects millions of people around the world.

Despite widespread criticism, W Korea‘s response was equally tone deaf. Their belated apology avoided addressing crucial concerns – such as where the KRW 11 billion in donations over 20 years actually went – ​​and disabled comments on Instagram, further damaging public trust. Even more damning is the silence of editor-in-chief Lee Hye-joo, who also sits on the board of directors of the Korea Breast Health Foundation, the alleged beneficiary of the campaign.

These incidents, both from ELLE UK AND W Koreahave highlighted a deeper issue: the immaturity and lack of responsibility in the fashion industry when dealing with sensitive social issues. As public outcry continues to grow, these events serve as a stark reminder that prestige and platform come with responsibility, a responsibility that both magazines have failed to uphold.

The question remains: can the fashion world move beyond performative activism and truly embrace the social causes it claims to champion?

Sources: Star News, ELLE UK, W Korea, Instagram

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