Cube Entertainment is drawing criticism for apologizing for labeling (G)I-DLE Shuhua's nationality with a Taiwanese flag.
Keep on reading to know more.
Cube Entertainment Criticized for Unnecessary Apology Over (G)I-DLE Shuhua's Nationality Being Labeled With Taiwan's Flag
Earlier this year, Cube Entertainment's girl group, (G)I-DLE, made a guest appearance and took part in an interview with KBS2's reality program, "Entertainment Weekly."
During (G)I-DLE's appearance on the program, the members had stated that they had three foreign members in the group, such as Yuqi, Shuhua, and Minnie.
As they are introducing the foreign members, the program showed flags that label each member's nationalities, such as the flag of China for Yuqi, the flag of Taiwan for Shuhua, and the flag of Thailand for Minnie.
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However, a statement released by Cube Entertainment after the program was aired has been brought to the attention of numerous users of an online community forum.
Following the broadcast, Cube Entertainment had issued an official apology regarding the "mistake" caused by the labeling of Shuhua's national flag - despite Shuhua actually being from Taiwan.
This stems from the ongoing issue of Taiwan being treated as an independent country, rather than being a part of the People's Republic of China.
According to Cube Entertainment, the clip of the segment became controversial as a result of a mistake made on the part of the broadcasting station, and stated that they have contacted the broadcasting station and requested that they edit and correct the error of Shuhua's flag.
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"As Cube Entertainment doesn't have control over the graphics and editing of the footage, which is owned by the broadcasting station, we weren't able to monitor the final product before its broadcast," said Cube Entertainment.
Cube Entertainment also stated that the footage will be re-uploaded after the mistake has been corrected, and asks fans for wait patiently, as well as apologized for causing them concern.
Following Cube Entertainment's apology, internet users began criticizing the entertainment company for releasing an apology that was uncessecary and uncalled for.
Many who commented expressed their dissatisfaction with Cube Entertainment for apologizing over the correct usage of flag on Shuhua, while others felt disappointed on the label's treatment on the Taiwanese member.
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TWICE Tzuyu's Similar Flag Incident
This isn't the first time an idol had to apologize for using Taiwan's flag.
Back in 2016, TWICE's Tzuyu - another Taiwanese - came under fire after she waved the Taiwanese flag during an appearance on a show. Tzuyu received intense backlash, and ended up releasing a video to apologize - where she read a script and stated that there is "only one China" and that she is "proud to be Chinese."
What are your thoughts on the issue?
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Written by Robyn Joan
