Former NCT member Mark has issued another apology over a past photo showing him wearing a shirt featuring the Confederate flag, saying he takes full responsibility for not understanding the symbol at the time.
On August 21, Mark shared a lengthy English statement through his Instagram Story to clarify comments he previously made during an Instagram Live.
Mark explained that he had misspoken when discussing whether he knew the history and meaning behind the symbol.
He wrote, “When I said during the live that I knew the meaning and historical significance of the symbol, I believe I misspoke. What I meant to say was that at the time, I did not know what the symbol meant or its historical significance.”
Mark then stressed that he was not trying to make excuses for wearing the shirt.
He continued, “I want to be clear. I did not know what that symbol represented, and neither did my team. There is no excuse. I take full responsibility for my ignorance, and I am sincerely sorry, especially for the hurt and pain this caused Black fans.”
The singer said he regrets not educating himself about the symbol beforehand and promised to learn more moving forward.
Mark added, “I am committed to learning and educating myself more in the future.”
He ended his statement by apologizing again to those who were hurt.
Mark wrote, “I am truly sorry to everyone who was hurt. I hope that my actions moving forward can reflect my belief in respect and inclusion.”
The controversy began in June after Mark posted a photo of himself wearing a shirt featuring the Confederate flag. The image was later removed, and his agency Upper Room previously issued an apology.
The Confederate flag is associated with the Confederate States during the American Civil War and is widely regarded as a symbol connected to racism and white supremacy.
With his latest statement, Mark focused on taking responsibility for his lack of awareness and said he intends to show greater respect and understanding through his future actions.
