Ex-NCT member Mark apologises over Confederate flag T-shirt controversy

SEOUL, June 25 — Former NCT member Mark has apologised after photographs of him wearing a T-shirt featuring the Confederate flag sparked criticism online.

In a statement posted on social media today, Upper Room — the creative agency Mark established earlier this month — said it was “deeply sorry” for the concern and disappointment caused by the vintage T-shirt, which carried imagery widely associated with racism and white supremacy in the United States.

The apology came after images of the singer wearing the shirt spread across online communities, with many users pointing out that the Confederate flag remains a highly controversial emblem because of its links to slavery, racial segregation and extremist groups, according to The Korea Herald.

According to the agency, the shirt was picked for its vintage aesthetic, without recognising the historical baggage attached to the emblem at the time.

After becoming aware of the symbol’s meaning, the company said it tried to keep the image out of its official releases. However, another photo displaying the shirt was later published, triggering renewed criticism online.

It stressed that neither Mark nor the company endorses racism, discrimination, hate or intolerance in any form.

“Regardless of intent, we recognise that this matter should have been handled with greater diligence and care,” the statement said, adding that the agency accepted full responsibility for the oversight.

Upper Room also thanked those who highlighted the issue and pledged to tighten its internal review process for wardrobe choices and content approval to help prevent similar incidents in future.

The controversy comes just weeks after Mark embarked on a new chapter in his career.

The 25-year-old singer, who debuted with NCT in 2016 and performed with units including NCT 127, NCT Dream and NCT U, left SM Entertainment in April and subsequently ended all activities connected to the group, The Korea Herald reported.

He officially launched Upper Room in early June as his independent creative label.