5th-Gen Boy Group’s Post After “Cultural Appropriation” Controversy Triggers Scathing Backlash

ALL(H)OURS is facing a fresh round of criticism just days after being called out for cultural appropriation.

A recent post on the group’s X account has sparked major backlash among fans.

We’re tired. Let’s call it a day.

— ALL(H)OURS official (@ALL_H_OURS) August 20, 2026

While it may have been related to a “one truth, two lies” game the group had previously been playing on their account, many are reading the post as dismissive given ALL(H)OURS’ recent controversy.

yeah cultural appropriation must be exhausting. thoughts and prayers

— dani || still missing ateez || (@oreo_woo) August 20, 2026

that scalp must still be hurting from them cornrows pic.twitter.com/6X6A4745N1

— kan (@nikicuIture) August 20, 2026

thoughts and prayers i guess pic.twitter.com/54u2F41dIu

— lix ❇️¹²⁷ (@haniglows) August 20, 2026

Earlier this week, the group came under fire for teasers from their sixth mini album, UNBOUND, where member Hyunbin was seen styled with cornrows. Cornrows have deep roots in Black culture and history, and many Black people have faced stigma for wearing the hairstyle. As such, fans quickly called out the styling as cultural appropriation.

Shortly afterwards, EDEN Entertainment responded with an official statement addressing the criticism directly, asking fans for understanding regarding the already-completed concept photos and music video as they did not have the means to reshoot.

We understand that hairstyles such as cornrows carry important cultural and historical significance, and we recognize why the styling used in the promotional content caused concern and discomfort for the audience. It was never our intention to disrespect, appropriate, or diminish the cultural meaning associated with this hairstyle.

We take the concerns raised by the audience seriously and will use what we have learned to be more thoughtful and responsible in our decision-making moving forward.

— EDEN Entertainment

However, many remain disappointed that the teasers remain live on the group’s social media. Since the controversy erupted, Hyunbin has not addressed the matter personally.