[Dispatch=Park Hye-jin] Singer Mark has apologized for wearing clothing featuring the Confederate flag, which is considered a symbol of racism.

His agency, UPPER ROOM, posted an apology on SNS on the 23rd, stating, "We sincerely apologize for the discomfort and disappointment caused by the t-shirt."

Mark recently wore a t-shirt featuring the Confederate flag of the American South. The Confederate flag is the banner of 11 Southern states that advocated for the maintenance of slavery during the Civil War from 1861 to 1865. Subsequently, the white supremacist group KKK used it while opposing the black civil rights movement, solidifying it as a symbol of racial discrimination.

Mark's side stated, "The clothing was chosen as a vintage item," and explained, "However, after recognizing the historical significance and sensitivity of the symbol on the t-shirt, we took measures to ensure it would not appear in official content. Nevertheless, the image was leaked externally."

They conveyed that they felt full responsibility. "Regardless of intention, we acknowledge that we should have been more careful. We feel responsibility for this mistake," they said.

The agency said, "We firmly reject all forms of intolerance, including racism, hatred, and discrimination," and added, "We deeply apologize to those who have been hurt by this incident. We will ensure that similar incidents do not recur."

They further stated, "We sincerely apologize once again to all those who have been hurt and disappointed by this incident," and "We will proceed with greater responsibility and consideration going forward."

Meanwhile, Mark withdrew from NCT in April. He parted ways with his agency after 10 years. On the 3rd, he announced the news of his one-person agency, officially beginning his solo journey.

<Photo source=SNS>