In many circles, especially among those who opposed the previous administration, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is viewed unfavorably. While ICE has its supporters, it’s unexpected to find such support within the Kpop fandom. Lara Rajagopalan, a Texas https://thenerdstash.com/tag/texas/-born https://thenerdstash.com/tag/celebrity/ celebrity and member of the group KATSEYE, has become a topic of discussion online, but not for her artistic abilities. It has been reported that a Kpop fan reported Lara to ICE, labeling her as “an illegal alien” who “has not obtained the necessary visa or legal status required to remain in the US.”
Despite being of Indian descent, Lara is a US citizen, born in Dallas and raised in Los Angeles. Therefore, the report is based on incorrect speculation. The individual who filed the report is likely a troll, a hater, or someone who is prejudiced against Lara because of her skin color or ethnicity as a Kpop artist. Unfortunately, this wouldn’t be an isolated incident. Reddit users https://www.reddit.com/r/popculturechat/comments/1ldzvj5/a_kpop_fan_has_gone_viral_for_reporting_lara_from/ have reported that many have made disparaging remarks about her appearance, even resorting to offensive nicknames. Some have noted that KATSEYE is intended to be a diverse and inclusive group, raising questions about why someone who harbors such prejudices would be interested in the group.
Blocking everyone who justifies racism towards Lara over fanwars it’s ALWAYS
her who has to deal with such things because she’s Indian. Do people think
deportation jokes are funny? This happened to Hanni and now to Lara they’re
getting called “illegal alliens” over kpop fanwars pic.twitter.com/pLXjPaZaEB— 🧸 (@jentlelogy) June 16, 2025
Another Redditor commented that nothing Kpop fans do is surprising anymore and that many are incredibly racist. One comment stated, “Just regular racism, you know, the foundation of America,” acknowledging the long history of racism in the US. Some suggest that the current political climate and ICE policies contribute to a climate of intolerance, fostering animosity towards individuals who are perceived as “looking like an illegal immigrant.” The animosity directed towards Indian-Americans like Lara is not new, but the report to ICE was definitely unwarranted. Thankfully, many online users have voiced their support for Lara in response to the ICE report.
This type of behavior is likely to continue. As long as the current administration remains in power, issues like bigotry, racism, and transphobia will continue to be widespread. The protests taking place, despite criticisms, highlight the public’s desire for reform and their dissatisfaction with ICE’s treatment of people.
Despite any aspirations Lara had when she joined KATSEYE, she was likely aware of the potential for toxicity and racism within the Kpop community. This isn’t to suggest that she is responsible for the report to ICE or the hate she has received due to her skin color. However, it’s hoped that she was prepared for such incidents, especially in the current environment.
