Super Junior Kim Heechul Taegeukgi Apology: Star Admits Hasty Reaction Over Banner Artwork
Super Junior member Kim Heechul has issued a direct public apology after prematurely criticizing a local government’s Liberation Day banner, acknowledging his oversight and emotional reaction.
On August 10, 2026, the veteran idol updated his personal social media with a detailed statement addressing the controversy surrounding his recent online comments about the South Korean national flag (Taegeukgi).
The Origin of the Taegeukgi Controversy
The issue began when a local government erected a banner commemorating the 81st Liberation Day (August 15). The artwork depicted an independence activist holding the Taegeukgi up with both hands.
| Aspect | Controversy Details & Context |
| Event | 81st National Liberation Day Commemorative Banner |
| Initial Criticism | Claims that the flag pattern was upside-down (blue on top, red on bottom) |
| Actual Perspective | Low-angle view looking up at the flag being raised high |
| Action Taken | Banner removed after two days due to potential public confusion |
Seeing online posts claiming the flag was depicted upside-down, Heechul initially reacted with strong profanity on his personal channel. However, the local government clarified that the layout was a perspective-based artwork looking up at the activist from below, rather than a misprint.
Kim Heechul’s Full Apology and Explanation
Recognizing his misunderstanding of the artistic perspective, Heechul took full responsibility for his premature reaction:
“You might be surprised to see an apology letter just a day later, but this was entirely my fault. I only looked at the Taegeuk emblem at a glance without properly realizing the perspective of a person holding the flag up. It was a clear mistake caused by my lack of spatial awareness and my own hastiness. I am deeply sorry.”
— Kim Heechul, Super Junior
He further explained, “Seeing recent news where the Taegeukgi was repeatedly drawn or hung incorrectly had built up anger inside me. However, it was my error for not looking closely at the artwork. When you make a mistake, it is only right to apologize, so please scold me for not being more careful.”
Clarifying Misconceptions and Moving Forward
Heechul concluded his statement by expressing hope that the national flag would not be misrepresented or misunderstood in the future, while adding a lighthearted clarification regarding his heritage: “And yes, I am definitely Korean. I was born in Hoengseong, Gangwon Province.”
Through his swift Super Junior Kim Heechul Taegeukgi Apology, the artist demonstrated accountability, bringing a constructive resolution to the social media controversy.
