▲ Mark of NCT DREAM speaks during a production presentation for the group's fifth album, "Go Back To The Future," at Lotte Cinema World Tower in Seoul's Songpa district on July 14, 2025. (Yonhap)

 

SEOUL, June 24 (Yonhap) -- Mark, formerly of K-pop group NCT, has apologized after drawing criticism for wearing a T-shirt featuring the Confederate flag, a symbol widely associated with racism in the United States.

 

His agency, Upper Room, said Tuesday, "We sincerely apologize to everyone who may have felt uncomfortable or disappointed by the outfit Mark recently wore," adding, "We promise to act with greater responsibility, awareness and caution going forward."

 

The Confederate flag was used by the Confederate States during the American Civil War and is widely regarded as a symbol of racism, white supremacy and slavery.

 

Criticism emerged online after photos of Mark wearing the T-shirt were shared on social media.

 

The agency explained that the item had been selected as a vintage clothing piece but that measures were taken to conceal the symbol after its historical significance and sensitivity were recognized.

 

"Nevertheless, the image was later shared publicly, exposing the symbol and causing concern among the public," the agency said.

 

It added that it plans to strengthen its review process for wardrobe selection and content approval to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

 

The apology statement was also released in English in consideration of Mark's international fan base.

 

Mark left NCT after his exclusive contract with SM Entertainment expired in April and subsequently established his own one-person agency, Upper Room.

[ⓒ K-VIBE. 무단전재-재배포 금지]