Agency Breaks Zero-Tolerance Stance to Accommodate Teenager's Apology Following Malicious Posts

Mark's instagram

In a rare departure from its unwavering stance on combating hateful online behavior, SM Entertainment, a powerhouse in the K-pop industry, chose to exercise leniency towards a teenager responsible for malicious comments directed at Mark, a member of the popular boy band NCT.

In an unexpected turn of events, the artist, who bore the brunt of the offensive remarks, appealed to the agency not to pursue legal action against the young offender, according to a statement issued by SM Entertainment. The teenager, whose derogatory posts centered on Mark's physical appearance, candidly admitted to the wrongdoing.

Throughout its history, SM Entertainment has steadfastly upheld a zero-tolerance policy against malicious activities and the dissemination of false information aimed at tarnishing its artists' reputations.

"Following a defamation report lodged by the agency, law enforcement was able to trace the individual responsible for the series of malicious posts targeting NCT's Mark," stated SM Entertainment on Monday. The agency's intention had been to rigorously enforce its zero-tolerance policy, but the course of action took a different route upon considering Mark's wishes. The artist, recognizing the wrongdoer's status as a teenager and their remorse for their actions, requested forbearance.

In alignment with Mark's wishes, the teenager has expressed their profound regret and willingness to reform by issuing an official letter of apology. The apology, available on SM Entertainment's dedicated platform Kwangya119 for reporting harmful content, acknowledged the commenter's deep reflection on their actions and affirmed their commitment to ensuring such behavior does not recur.

The letter resonated with Mark, who personally forgave the transgressor after acknowledging their genuine remorse. "NCT's Mark reached out to grant me forgiveness, taking into consideration my sincere introspection and my genuine intention to offer a heartfelt apology," the apologetic letter read.

Revealing a broader strategy, SM Entertainment disclosed that it has been amassing evidence related to malicious online comments and has launched ongoing investigations into similar instances.

This shift in stance comes after SM Entertainment's recent engagement with law enforcement in response to threats made towards Winter, a member of the girl group aespa, at Incheon International Airport earlier this month. The incident underlines the complex dynamics faced by K-pop agencies in the digital age, prompting them to navigate a delicate balance between safeguarding their artists' well-being and fostering an environment of growth and redemption.

Sayart.net 

Kang In sig, insig6622@naver.com