South Korean singer and producer MC Mong has publicly responded to mounting criticism following the display of a Hitler portrait in his home, characterizing the piece as artistic commentary rather than an expression of admiration.
The artist released a detailed explanation on social media on Tuesday, defending the work as a deliberate artistic statement about human greed and brutality.
The controversy emerged after MC Mong shared Instagram Stories featuring his home interior set to the song “Home Sweet Home” by Car, the Garden. Among images showcasing his staircase and decorative figurines stood a framed portrait of Adolf Hitler, which quickly circulated online and sparked accusations of historical insensitivity. As criticism intensified, MC Mong identified the work as an early piece by artist Ok Seung-cheol, explaining the artistic intent behind the imagery.
According to MC Mong’s statement, the painting uses red-colored straw strokes in the mustache area to symbolize human greed and selfishness, representing the brutality of those who metaphorically “suck the blood of others.” The artist employed this visual metaphor to critique inhumanity rather than glorify the historical figure, MC Mong contended. He emphasized that the piece had occupied his collection for years, appearing in his studio during his time with the music team Double Sidekick and continuing throughout his tenure at BPM Entertainment.
MC Mong challenged the perception of art appreciation among his critics, stating that certain works intentionally condemn rather than celebrate their subjects. “The thing about artworks is that some are created with the intent to condemn, not worship, and there are art enthusiasts who appreciate such works,” he wrote. He criticized those who interpreted the display as idolization, suggesting they failed to understand artistic expression and satire.
The singer made an unambiguous statement regarding his personal stance toward Hitler, asserting multiple times his disdain for the dictator. “I hate Hitler. So very extremely. I despise anyone who instigates war,” MC Mong declared. Despite this clarification, his explanation failed to immediately quell controversy surrounding the decision to display such a historically sensitive figure as home decoration.
The incident adds to a pattern of recent scrutiny directed at MC Mong, whose public profile has included previous controversies involving homophobic remarks in 2004 and allegations surrounding military service obligations in 2010. Additionally, in July 2025, he stepped back from his executive producer role at the entertainment label One Hundred, citing severe depression and deteriorating health as reasons for pursuing studies abroad.