Mark Lee’s First Post After Confederate Flag Apology Sparks Outrage

Just hours after an apology that left fans confused, Mark Lee has triggered another wave of backlash over his Confederate flag controversy.

In his latest Instagram story, Mark reposted a video of himself singing alongside a group of singers in Nairobi, Kenya.

mark lee story instagram update with caption “much love to you guys” 🥹🥹 pic.twitter.com/mivsm22O69

— olip ( ͡•. •. ͡ ) (@marklopsemangka) August 21, 2026

The post came just hours after Mark posted an Instagram story clarifying his recent apology for wearing a t-shirt bearing the Confederate flag — a symbol heavily associated with slavery and white supremacy. On August 21, Mark personally addressed the controversy for the first time during a live broadcast on Instagram, apologizing “especially to my Black fans [and] to the Black community” for his actions.

Mark Lee Directly Addresses Racism Controversy, Sparking Mixed Reactions

However, alongside sparking backlash from those who felt the apology took too long to come, Mark’s words also caused confusion.

I really wanted to directly tell you guys it really wasn’t my intention with me knowing the meaning of the flag, the historical significance of it. It really shouldn’t have happened and it really does not reflect who I am as a person.”

— Mark

Mark later took to Instagram to explain his words, stating, “What I meant to say was that I did not know the meaning or historical significance of the symbol at the time.” Shortly afterwards came the Kenya video clip, originally posted by Faiza Hersi. Hersi, a Kenyan music executive and founder of Nairobi R&B, commented yesterday on Mark’s Instagram post, defending him and reflecting on their time working together.

We must acknowledge that the world is massive, and specific regional histories may not be top of mind for everyone globally immediately…

Mark was very respectful, collaborative, down-to-earth and genuinely present in the sessions. I think we all felt his words and shed tears at some point. Assuming Mark moved to Korea at a young age, it’s very plausible that Mark may have simply made an honest stylistic error with a vintage shirt and he has since stepped up to address it gracefully.

— Faiza Hersi

But the timing of the repost has led to a new wave of anger from many fans who believe Mark is leaning on the moment to deflect from the criticism, defend himself against racism allegations, and pivot the conversation back to his career.

“im not racist look at me in a room with black people” pic.twitter.com/QOuYsqHeEN

— d𝓨lan 🍄 (@sikexikers) August 22, 2026

I offended Black Americans so let me go sing with a Kenyan choir. I mean I guess it counts 😭?? pic.twitter.com/Zp1kAFGFDI

— saturn (@sweeteapie27) August 21, 2026

he really is stupid like you don’t apologize properly until 2 months later then post a picture with black people right after like at least give it a few days 😭

— vanna (@smw2001) August 22, 2026

Mark previously spoke about visiting Kenya earlier this year during “a very important time” in his life, which is widely believed to be a reference to his NCT contract renewal period. Mark told fans that seeing a wild lion in the country while on safari had shifted his perspective.