Jung Haein Squeezed Between 'Manspreading' Western Men... "Treated Like He's Invisible" Sparks Racial Discrimination Controversy

Jung Haein Seen Hunched Between Western Men
Luxury Fashion Show Video Sparks Racial Discrimination Controversy on Social Media

Actor Jung Haein (37) is at the center of controversy over alleged racial discrimination at an overseas fashion show. Criticism has arisen over inappropriate behavior after footage showed Western men sitting on either side of Jung Haein with their legs spread wide, seemingly encroaching on his personal space.

At the Dolce & Gabbana fashion show held in Milan, Italy, actor Jung Haein was alleged to have experienced racial discrimination. Online community

In a video spreading on social media on February 2, Jung Haein is seen sitting hunched between two Western men. The video was filmed at the Dolce & Gabbana fashion show held in Milan, Italy, on January 17.

In the footage, Jung Haein appears uncomfortable as the men on either side sit with their legs widely spread. The two men conversed with each other across Jung Haein, who at times looked visibly awkward.

As the video circulated online, some criticized the behavior of the Western men as racially discriminatory. Online commenters reacted by saying, "They are treating him like he is invisible; this is racism," and "It is rude and disrespectful."

The controversy escalated further when fashion magazine GQ, which posted the footage from the event, tagged every attendee except Jung Haein in their social media post.

Jaein Jung and American singer Benson are seen interviewing. YouTube ELLIE.

However, some argued that it is premature to label the incident as racial discrimination, noting that American singer Benson Boone, who was seated to Jung Haein's left, conducted an interview with him. One commenter defended the singer, saying, "Benson Boone has worked in Korea and has always expressed his love for the country."

Controversies over domestic celebrities experiencing racial discrimination at overseas fashion shows have been recurring. Last year, Rose of the group Blackpink faced similar issues at the Saint Laurent 2026 Spring/Summer collection in Paris, France. At the time, the British fashion magazine Elle UK caused a stir by posting a group photo in which only Rose was cropped out. In particular, British singer Charli XCX faced backlash after posting a photo where only Rose appeared as a shadow.