Handong of Dreamcatcher faced online criticism for sharing a photo with a Baby Natasha doll linked to a controversial social media trend. The post, made on June 21, was later removed following an apology.
On June 21, Handong posted an Instagram photo showing her holding a Baby Natasha doll by the head while laughing. The doll, a stress toy available in multiple skin tones, had become part of a trend on Chinese social media where it was shown being hit or punctured, often with the black version specifically targeted.
Backlash emerged quickly on platforms like Twitter, with fans expressing disappointment and questioning her awareness of the trend's anti-Black elements. Some users shared the image and stated they were done supporting the idol.
Handong subsequently deleted the photo and issued an apology for her actions. Several fans voiced skepticism about the apology, arguing she should have recognized the context given the doll's viral association with harmful videos.
The incident drew attention to the doll's use in videos that some described as dehumanizing toward Black children.
