NCT member Mark Lee received mixed reactions after appearing at a promotional event in Thailand, where fans debated his styling while others defended the outfit as appropriate for the occasion. The discussion comes as the singer also faces continued attention over a separate controversy involving a T-shirt with a Confederate flag, for which his label has already issued an apology.
On June 27, Mark attended a solo event for SISOD Rice Milk in Thailand. The appearance had originally been scheduled before his departure from NCT, as NCT DREAM serves as an ambassador for the brand, Koreaboo reported.
For the event, Mark wore a white dress shirt, a blue vest, and matching blue dress pants.
Soon after photos from the event were shared online, some social media users criticized his appearance. Several compared the outfit to the modest style associated with members of the Mormon Church, while others commented that his overall look made him appear older than his age.
Mark Lee Faces Styling Criticism
However, many fans quickly defended the styling. They pointed out that Thailand is currently observing a period of mourning and that attendees had been informed about an appropriate dress code before the event.
Supporters argued that the outfit matched the respectful tone expected for the occasion and praised Mark’s appearance instead.
The online discussion showed a divided response, with some continuing to criticize his styling while many others described him as handsome and said the formal outfit suited the event.
According to Yahoo, at the same time, Mark remains under scrutiny following backlash over photos shared by his newly founded label, Upper Room.
The images showed the singer wearing a vintage raglan T-shirt featuring the Confederate flag, prompting criticism from fans after screenshots spread across social media. The original post was later deleted.
Upper Room responded with a public apology, saying it was “deeply sorry” for the concern and disappointment caused by the shirt.
The company explained that it had selected the item as a vintage piece without recognizing the historical sensitivity of the symbol. It added that it “unequivocally reject[s] and do[es] not tolerate racism, hate, discrimination, or any form of intolerance.”