NCT faced criticism after some members made an insensitive joke following an earthquake alert. As a result, Doyoung, Mark, and Johnny took to Instagram to convey their apologies.
On December 14, NCT 2021 members held a countdown live broadcast to commemorate the release of their third full-length album, "Universe."
The live was held through NCT's official YouTube channel, where they talked about the content of their album and tracks while communicating with their fans, NCTzens.
NCT Criticized for Singing a Verse from The Group's Track 'Earthquake' During an Actual Earthquake Alert
The broadcast went smoothly until, at around 5:20 p.m. KST, an emergency disaster text message rang to announce the news of the 5.3 earthquake in scale in the 32km southwest of Seogwipo-si, Jeju Island.
When the live disaster alert went off, the members said, "I got a text message to be careful of COVID-19. Make sure to wear a mask."
Subsequently, when the staff who checked the disaster text announced that an earthquake had occurred, the members were surprised, saying, "Is it an earthquake?"
However, in the process, some members including Mark, Doyoung and Johnny danced briefly by singing a verse from "Earthquake," one of NCT's b-sidetrack from their latest album.
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"You shouldn't play around," the other members tried to stop them.
However, as the situation was broadcast live, some viewers raised their eyebrows for making an insensitive joke, while it is certain that there were people who were in fear during the earthquake.
"The fact that the youngest members stop them," "Are you an airhead," "Do you understand how serious the situation is?" internet users criticized the members on social media.
NCT Doyoung, Mark and Johnny Apologize for Rash Actions
On the same day, the members who drew backlash took to Instagram and expressed their sincere apologies regarding their insensitive jokes.
"Hello, I'm Doyoung. In today's comeback live broadcast, I made a rash mistake without being aware of the situation properly. I would like to apologize to those who must have been hurt and uncomfortable with my rash remarks."
"I'm sorry again without any excuse because it's my complete mistake and my fault. In the future, we will try not to repeat these mistakes. Once again, I'd like to say sorry to everyone who was damaged by my words," NCT Doyoung said on his Instagram story.
Mark also wrote, "I'd like to apologize for the comeback live today. I'm so sorry for not understanding the situation and showing careless and rash behavior. I will deeply reflect on myself and try not to show this side of me next time."
Lastly, Johnny also conveyed the same words and said, "I'm sorry for the careless behavior during today's comeback live. I will think and act more carefully in the future. I'm really sorry. Once again, I apologize to everyone who must have felt uncomfortable seeing my actions."
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Written by Eunice Dawson
