David Choe, a prolific graffiti artist and actor, is no stranger to controversy. But his past comments and behavior are now drawing backlash online, with many calling for Choe to be held accountable for his words and actions. From derogatory remarks about women to boasting about sexual assaults, Choe’s comments have resurfaced in recent days, prompting a heated debate about cancel culture, accountability, and the responsibility of public figures. In this article, we will explore the growing backlash against Choe and the implications of his past comments in the current cultural landscape.
Warning: The following content describes graphic sexual violence and may be triggering for some readers.
In recent weeks, the internet has been abuzz with controversy surrounding graffiti artist David Choe after a resurfaced video of him speaking on the DVDASA podcast in 2014 went viral on Twitter. In the video, Choe graphically describes raping a woman named “Rose” during a massage. The footage was quickly removed due to copyright claims made by Choe and the artist’s non-profit foundation, but the conversation has sparked a heated debate about rape culture, artistic freedom, and accountability.
Choe gained fame in 2005 after he painted murals for the headquarters of Meta (then-Facebook) and chose to receive his compensation in stock. When the company went public in 2012, Choe’s shares were worth an estimated $200 million. He has since become a prominent figure in the art world, known for his controversial and provocative work.
Choe’s recent controversy began when he was featured on Beef, a high-profile Netflix show starring Steven Yeun and Ali Wong, and was invited to audition for the role of Isaac after consulting with the show’s executive producers and friends of Choe. The show debuted on April 6 and quickly became one of Netflix’s most popular titles.
Sometime around the premiere of Beef, Reveal reporter Aura Bogado posted the resurfaced DVDASA video on Twitter. The video quickly went viral, and Choe’s comments received additional attention in Hannah Bae’s April 5 review of the show for the San Francisco Chronicle.
During the podcast, Choe tells co-host and porn actress Asa Akira about a massage with a masseuse he called “Rose.” He describes getting an erection during the massage, starting to masturbate in front of Rose without asking or telling her, and how the situation became “dangerous” and “super self-destructive.” Choe admits that he grabbed Rose’s hand, placed it on his genitals, asked if she would spit on it and kiss it (which she declined), and then proceeded to force her to perform oral sex on him. Choe tells Akira that he continued the sex act until he ejaculated into Rose’s mouth.
At one point during the podcast, Akira says, “You raped her.” Later in the episode, Choe appears to jokingly call himself a “successful rapist.” A conversation during the podcast about “rapey behavior” vs “rape” ends with Choe stating, “I just want to make it clear that I admit that that’s rapey behavior, but I am not a rapist.”
Choe’s comments have understandably sparked outrage and dismay among many, especially given the current cultural climate in which discussions of consent, sexual violence, and abuse are at the forefront of public discourse.
Some have argued that Choe’s comments are a classic example of rape culture, in which sexual violence is normalized and even glorified, and that his behavior should be condemned and punished. Others have defended Choe’s comments as an example of artistic expression and free speech, arguing that his words were taken out of context and that he was simply sharing a fictional story in the context of a podcast that was meant to be provocative and controversial.
The debate surrounding Choe’s comments raises important questions about the role of art and artists in society, and the need for accountability and responsibility when it comes to issues of sexual violence and abuse. While some may argue that artists should have the freedom to express themselves in any way they see fit, others argue that there is a clear line between art and harm, and that it is the responsibility of artists to be mindful of the impact their words and actions can have.
Regardless of how one feels about Choe’s comments, it is clear that his words have caused significant pain and distress to many, and that there is a need for greater awareness and education about the harmful effects of rape culture, sexual violence, and abuse. As we grapple with these complex and difficult issues, it is important to continue having open and honest conversations about consent, respect, and the importance of treating all people with dignity and compassion.
As online activism continues to gain momentum, more and more people are speaking out against problematic behavior and statements made by public figures. David Choe, a prominent graffiti artist and actor, is the latest to face backlash over past comments that are now being re-examined in the context of today’s social climate. While some may argue that Choe’s comments were made in the past and should be forgiven, others believe that he must take responsibility for his words and use his platform to promote positive change. As this conversation continues, it is clear that accountability and transparency are more important than ever – and that we must all strive to be better allies, advocates, and community members.
