Lara Raj, a 19-year-old member of KATSEYE, has publicly come out as queer, marking a significant moment in the K-pop industry. In a heartfelt voice message shared with fans on the artist-to-fan communication platform Weverse on March 24, 2025, she opened up about her sexual identity and the challenges associated with it. "I think also being a girl who likes girls is such a different experience because a lot of people don’t think it’s like a real thing," she said. "Or, on the other hand, people fetishize it, which is also super annoying."
Raj, who is of Indian-American heritage, expressed her gratitude for the support she has received from her family, friends, and fans. Reflecting on her journey, she revealed that she has known about her identity since she was eight years old. "I knew I was half a fruitcake when I was like eight, so I really was wanting everybody. Honestly, probably before eight. Isn’t ‘half a fruitcake’ such a good way to explain it without saying it?" she shared, using a playful term to describe her queer identity.
The announcement has resonated deeply within the K-pop community, where openly queer idols are rare due to conservative societal norms. KATSEYE's fans, known as Eyekons, have flooded social media with messages of support, celebrating Raj for her bravery and the representation she brings as a queer woman of color. Holland, South Korea’s first openly gay K-pop idol, also expressed his support for Raj on social media, stating, "Lara, I just want to say how incredibly proud and happy I am for you. Coming out is never an easy journey, especially in this industry, but your courage and authenticity will inspire so many people who look up to you."
Raj's journey to becoming a member of KATSEYE began on the reality show The Debut: Dream Academy, where she initially worried that her sexuality might hinder her chances of debuting. "You know in Dream Academy, when it came out I was really really scared, to be honest. I didn’t know if people would accept me and I really thought it might ruin my chances of getting in," she admitted. Her fears underscore the pressures faced by aspiring K-pop idols, where personal revelations can be perceived as risks to their careers.
KATSEYE debuted in August 2024, co-produced by HYBE and Geffen Records, with their album “SIS (Soft Is Strong)”, which features hit tracks like “Touch” and “My Way.” The group has gained significant popularity not only in the U.S. but also in the global music market, even being included in the “Artists to Watch This Year” list by the UK-based music magazine NME. Furthermore, KATSEYE is set to perform at Lollapalooza, the largest music festival in the U.S., which will take place from July 31 to August 3, 2025, at Grant Park in Chicago, Illinois.
Industry observers have characterized Raj's coming out as “shocking and groundbreaking” within the K-pop context, emphasizing the longstanding conservatism toward artists’ identities in the genre. Music critic Lim Hee-yun noted that while overseas pop artists have often come out publicly, K-pop has maintained strict and conservative standards for its performers. “Even with the changing times, it’s surprising to see something like this happen in K-pop,” Lim stated.
Raj's openness may signify a potential evolution within the K-pop industry. As K-pop continues to gain popularity in diverse global markets, including LGBTQ+ communities, her announcement could strengthen the bond between K-pop and its varied international fanbase. Lim further explained that K-pop's appeal to queer communities is rooted in its underdog narrative, resonating with fans who relate to the struggles of being part of a minority culture.
Despite the fears she initially faced, Raj expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support from her fans. "And then you all were so so nice about it and gave me so much love and support, and it made me feel so confident in who I am, so I love you for that," she said, highlighting the importance of acceptance in her journey.
In a world where the K-pop industry is often scrutinized for its rigid standards, Lara Raj's coming out represents a hopeful shift towards greater authenticity and acceptance. Her story not only inspires other aspiring artists but also encourages fans to embrace their true selves, fostering a culture of inclusivity that has long been needed in the entertainment industry.
