[Sportschosun Reporter Kim Jun-seok] Mark, a singer and former member of NCT, has issued a formal apology over controversy surrounding his wearing of a T-shirt featuring a Confederate flag design.
Upper Room, Mark's agency, released a lengthy statement on its official social media account on the 23rd, bowing its head over the recent racism controversy.
Upper Room said, "We sincerely apologize for causing concern and disappointment to many people over the vintage T-shirt seen in the recently released photo." It added, "The outfit was chosen as a vintage fashion item, but we later came to understand the historical meaning and sensitivity of the symbol on the shirt."
It continued, "We took steps to ensure that the design would not appear in official content, but the symbol was exposed after the related image was shared externally." The agency acknowledged, "Regardless of intent, this was an issue that should have been reviewed more carefully."
The design at the center of the controversy is a flag that symbolized the Confederacy during the American Civil War. The Confederate States of America advocated the preservation of slavery and declared independence from the United States. Today, the symbol is widely regarded in American society as a sign of white supremacy and racism. As a result, entertainers and public figures who have worn clothing featuring the design have faced criticism on multiple occasions in the past.
The agency emphasized, "Responsibility for this mistake lies entirely with the company and the artist." It added, "Mark and Upper Room oppose racism, hate, discrimination, and any form of intolerance."
It also promised, "We are taking the concerns raised by the community and fans seriously, and we will strengthen our procedures for selecting outfits and reviewing content to prevent the same problem from happening again."
Finally, it said, "We once again sincerely apologize to everyone who was hurt or offended." It added, "We will act with greater responsibility and awareness."
Meanwhile, Mark debuted as a member of NCT in 2016 and gained global popularity through activities with NCT 127 and NCT Dream. After recently completing his exclusive contract with SM Entertainment, he founded the independent label Upper Room and has begun solo activities.
narusi@sportschosun.com
