Male Idol Bows Head Live After Shocking Cultural Appropriation Video Triggers Scathing Backlash

TUNEXX‘s Donggyu has issued a public apology after facing backlash for cultural appropriation at a recent fan sign event.

The previous Boys Planet II contestant wore a thobe — a traditional full-length robe commonly worn by men across Arab and Middle Eastern cultures, typically white and associated with both everyday wear and religious occasions — during the event.

honestly that outfit shouldn’t even have been at the fansign in the first place but he’s ignorant as hell for how he acted in it

— 🐈‍⬛ (@donggyusoup) April 25, 2026

A video from the signing, in which Donggyu made gestures that drew laughter from fans, went viral and sparked strong criticism from international netizens.

Tf is he doing??? Oh he is so wrong for this.. it’s already involves culture issue. Donggyu cancellation is comingpic.twitter.com/HoAsidByvV

— bella ᡣ𐭩 (@lurvbeee) April 26, 2026

He responded quickly, posting a message to fans via a fan messaging app in which he apologized for not fully considering the cultural context.

I would like to sincerely apologize to everyone who felt uncomfortable due to my behavior at yesterday’s fan signing event. I am truly sorry for any hurt or discomfort I may have caused through my lack of thoughtfulness. I also deeply regret that I did not fully consider the cultural context. I take full responsibility for my actions, and I will be more mindful and careful moving forward.

— Donggyu

donggyu’s apology about the outfit he wore at yesterdays fansign pic.twitter.com/V7CVZXPSmh

— aj (@05donggyu) April 26, 2026

He then also changed his plans to hold a dance live broadcast for fans, instead holding a talk session during which he apologized again in person and even bowed his head.

he apologised again on live pic.twitter.com/MsCJHhm38y

— aj (@05donggyu) April 26, 2026