Australian Influencer Faces Backlash for Cultural Misstep
Australian social media influencer Sophia Begg, known online as Sopha Dopha, recently found herself in the spotlight for a controversial choice of music during her vacation in Japan. The 21-year-old shared an Instagram carousel documenting her first day in Tokyo, accompanied by a track from Mandarin rapper SKAI ISYOURGOD titled “Blueprint Supreme.” This decision sparked a wave of criticism from fans and followers who felt the selection was culturally insensitive.
Many users took to the comments section to express their concerns. One user wrote, “Girl I love you but please the song isn’t even in Japanese.” Others suggested that Begg’s choice reflected a broader issue where Westerners often misrepresent Eastern cultures. The conversation quickly escalated, with some users highlighting what they saw as a form of white privilege.
“I honestly think this reflects white privilege on another level… being able to pick and choose parts of someone else’s culture for aesthetic without needing to understand or respect it,” one Instagram user named Dayannee wrote. She emphasized that for many Asians, these cultural elements are not just trends but part of their lived experience. “It’s not just a song or a vibe, it’s a lived culture, and treating it like a trend is harmful.”
Dayannee pushed back against a theory that Begg might have simply chosen a trending song. “The song she used is currently trending, but it’s a Chinese audio. If she actually knew it was Chinese, why use it in a post about Japan?” she questioned. She argued that mixing up Chinese and Japanese cultures for aesthetic purposes came off as superficial and trendy, which could be perceived as racist.
The backlash extended beyond just the song choice. Some users described the mix-up as “casual racism.” Despite the criticism, Begg has only subtly acknowledged the controversy so far. In a subsequent vlog, she danced on the street with the caption: “When the trip makes it out of the groupchat {there’s three of us).”
Begg continues to document her Tokyo trip, sharing experiences such as attending a sumo match, taking a ride on the subway, and participating in a taste-testing tour of the famous Tsukiji Outer Market. However, the incident has raised questions about cultural awareness and sensitivity among influencers who travel internationally.
This is not the first time Begg has faced controversy. In 2023, she sparked a minor scandal when she announced plans to dress as a stingray for a costume party. A follower referenced the 2006 death of Steve Irwin, a renowned Australian wildlife expert, leading Begg to make light of the tragedy. Her response led to backlash on TikTok, prompting her to issue a public apology to the Irwin family.
In her apology, Begg expressed her deep respect for Steve Irwin and clarified that her intention was never to cause disrespect. “I love Steve Irwin and would never want to cause disrespect to his family or legacy,” she stated. She also mentioned that she had reflected on her costume and decided not to wear it, offering a sincere apology to those who were offended.
As the conversation around cultural appropriation and sensitivity continues to evolve, incidents like Begg’s serve as reminders of the importance of understanding and respecting different cultures. For influencers, whose platforms can shape perceptions and behaviors, the responsibility to engage thoughtfully with cultural elements is more critical than ever.
