Ex-NCT member Mark apologizes for wearing Confederate flag T-shirt

Former member of boy band NCT Mark Lee, known mononymously as Mark, apologized after wearing a T-shirt featuring the Confederate flag, widely regarded as a symbol of racism.

"We sincerely apologize for the concern, discomfort and disappointment caused to many by the vintage T-shirt that appeared in recently released photos," his agency, Upper Room, said Monday. 

The shirt was apparently "solely chosen as a vintage wardrobe item" for a fan event. Once the staff recognized the historical significance and sensitivity of the symbol displayed on the T-shirt, steps were taken to keep it out of official content. 

"Regardless of intent, we recognize that this matter should have been handled with greater diligence and care. We take full responsibility for this oversight," the agency said. 

It added, "Upper Room and the artist unequivocally reject and do not tolerate racism, hate, discrimination or any form of intolerance."

The Confederate battle flag originated during the U.S. Civil War (1861–1865) as the banner of states that seceded to preserve slavery. Though some have defended it as a symbol of "Southern heritage," its modern resurgence is largely tied to resistance against the civil rights movement in the 1950s and 60s, when it was prominently displayed by segregationists opposing racial equality.

It has since been widely adopted by white supremacist groups and is classified as a hate symbol by organizations such as the Anti-Defamation League. Many U.S. states and institutions have moved to remove it from public spaces, and it remains a charged and painful symbol for Black Americans in particular.

Mark debuted with NCT in 2016 and was a core member of two of the group's subunits, NCT 127 and NCT Dream. He parted ways with SM Entertainment when his exclusive contract expired in April and has since established his own agency.

BY JEONG HYE-JEONG [[email protected]]