NCT's Jisung Apologizes as Fans Debate Protest Trucks Outside SM Entertainment

NCT's Jisung has apologized after facing backlash for mentioning former NCT DREAM member Mark during a recent live broadcast, as protest trucks criticizing the group later appeared outside SM Entertainment.

The controversy began after Jisung shared during a livestream that the six NCT DREAM members recently went on a trip to Yangpyeong with Mark, who reportedly left the group in April. His comments quickly spread online and sparked mixed reactions from fans.

Following the backlash, Jisung apologized through the fan communication platform Bubble, Koreaboo reported.

While the exact contents of the apology were not fully shared publicly, the situation continued to grow as protest trucks were later seen parked outside SM Entertainment's building.

The trucks carried strong messages criticizing the members for continuing to mention Mark after his departure. Some banners accused the group of misleading fans and focusing too much on their friendship with the former member.

One message read, "The group name isn't 7DREAM, it's NCT DREAM. Snap out of it." Another stated, "If you don't have the will to do NCT DREAM properly, say so now, so we can stop stanning."

The organizer behind the protest trucks also shared their reasoning online, saying, "It is basic common sense as an idol not to mention ex-members to group fans."

Fans Split Over Jisung Protest Truck Controversy

The incident has since divided fans across online communities. Some agreed with the protest, arguing that idols usually avoid discussing former members after departures. Others felt the criticism toward Jisung and the group had gone too far.

Several comments supporting the protest questioned why the members continued bringing up Mark publicly. Some fans also criticized previous concerts and accused the group of creating emotional moments centered around their bond with the former member.

At the same time, many fans defended Jisung and the other members. Some argued that friendships should not suddenly disappear because of contract changes or group departures. Others called the protest trucks unnecessary and harsh.

"It's difficult to control personal relationships," one fan wrote online. According to KPopHit, another commented, "People actually spend money on these trucks...just unstan."

For now, neither SM Entertainment nor the other NCT DREAM members have released additional public statements regarding the protest trucks.