Mark, 'an incident'…Got into an accident right after leaving SM… Wears far-right symbol T-shirt 'controversy'

[MyDaily = Reporter Kim Jin-seok] Mark, formerly of NCT, apologized after causing controversy for wearing a T-shirt symbolizing the far right.

Mark's agency, Upper Room, uploaded a lengthy apology statement on its official SNS on the 23rd.

The agency said, "We sincerely apologize for the concern, discomfort, and disappointment caused by the vintage T-shirt seen in the recently shared photo," and explained that after recognizing the historical significance and sensitivity of the symbol displayed on the shirt, it took steps to ensure the symbol would not be visible in official content. However, it added that despite those efforts, the image was still shared and caused concern.

It continued, "Regardless of intent, we recognize that this should have been handled with greater care. This is entirely our responsibility for overlooking that point," and added, "We understand the seriousness of the concerns raised, and we deeply apologize for the pain caused by this incident."

It also said, "We sincerely apologize to everyone who was hurt, offended, or disappointed by this matter," adding, "We promise to act with greater responsibility, awareness, and careful attention going forward."

The T-shirt Mark wore featured the Confederate flag. The Confederate flag was the official flag of the Confederate government, which supported slavery during the U.S. Civil War, and in the 20th century it came to be regarded as a symbol of racism and the far right. In parts of the United States, displaying the Confederate flag or selling products featuring the design is prohibited.

Mark is Canadian and recently left SM Entertainment to establish his own one-person agency, Upper Room.

Reporter Kim Jin-seok ([email protected])