Global superstar BLACKPINK’s Rosé has been at the center of heated racism accusations after Elle UK cropped her out of a group photo from Paris Fashion Week. Now, a former UK staff member who once worked with Rosé has come forward to defend her, revealing heartwarming anecdotes about the singer’s personality and professionalism.

Rosé Elle UK controversy
Rosé Elle UK controversy

On October 3, a post titled “A Heartwarming Story About Chaeyoung (Rosé) During the UK Tour” surfaced on an online community. The writer, who claimed to be a local staff member from Rosé’s UK tour, shared: “She always practiced singing in her hotel room even after exhausting schedules. Once she started, she would go for two to three hours straight. It felt like listening to a private concert—I wondered if I even deserved such luxury.”

The staff member also noted her down-to-earth habits: “When shopping, she always asked for receipts to get tax refunds, saying her mom told her to bring them back. She gave off the vibe of a sweet, obedient daughter. She preferred street fashion over luxury brands, often buying clothes that cost just 10,000 to 20,000 won.”

The writer added that Rosé’s humility and politeness left a strong impression:
“Her endless humility and greetings made me a fan. Even at the airport, before heading to her next schedule, she gave me a 90-degree bow and thanked me.” Concluding firmly, they wrote: “The world is on Chaeyoung’s side for a reason. Elle was in the wrong!!!”

The controversy erupted after Elle UK uploaded a group photo from Saint Laurent’s 2026 S/S Collection show in Paris on September 30, where Rosé attended as the brand’s global ambassador. In the group photo, Rosé—despite being the actual face of the brand—was cropped out, sparking accusations of racism and deliberate exclusion.

rose paris fashion week nightwear controversy

Though Elle UK later deleted the photo, issued a vague apology blaming “photo formatting,” and posted Rosé’s solo shot, global fans denounced the response as insincere and continued to demand accountability.

The situation escalated when Charli XCX, also present at the show, posted another photo where Rosé appeared deliberately darkened. This fueled international outrage, with netizens flooding Charli XCX’s account with harsh criticism:

  • “How can you, of mixed Indian descent, openly engage in racism?”
  • “Rosé is a global star—who even are you compared to her?”
  • “This is blatant racism; your character is disappointing.”
Rosé Saint Laurent controversywomen' '' '' 'fashion' '' '' 'style' '' '' 'glamour.

Rosé attended the show sitting front row alongside Hailey Bieber, Zoë Kravitz, and Charli XCX. Yet both Elle UK and Charli XCX are now under fire for acts perceived as discriminatory and disrespectful toward her.

Sources: Daum