IVE’s Jang Wonyoung Gets Wrapped Up In “The Devil Wears Prada 2” Racism Controversy

A controversy over racial discrimination has emerged regarding the Asian character in the movie The Devil Wears Prada 2, and IVE‘s Jang Wonyoung unexpectedly gets stuck in the middle of it all.

On the 17th (local time), a video was released on the official YouTube channel of 20th Century Studios showing Andy (played by Anne Hathaway) meeting a new assistant in the office.

The assistant character, played by Chinese American actor Helen J. Shen, appears to be Chinese American and introduces herself as “Chin Chou.” However, this name’s pronunciation has been criticized for sounding similar to the racist expression “Ching Chong,” which mocks East Asian people.

Not only the name but also the tacky hairstyle, glasses, and checkered shirt and skirt sharply contrast with the other characters in this film, which portrays the fashion industry. This has led to criticism that the character is intentionally depicted as a fashion-challenged “nerd.”

In particular, the character listing her academic background and grades reinforces the stereotype of Asians as “overachievers,” promoting the perception that they are highly intelligent but lack social skills.

Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway of The Devil Wears Prada 2 conducted promotional schedules in Seoul, Korea, and Shanghai, China, earlier this month. Chinese netizens especially noted that Jang Wonyoung, a member of the group IVE, took center stage during the Korea promotions.

Chinese netizens criticized the double standard, saying, “While putting Jang Wonyoung, who is called a ‘human doll’ and enjoys great popularity across Asia, at the forefront of promotions, the movie features an understated, stereotypical Asian character.“