K-pop group (G)I-dle's agency apologizes for use of Red Cross symbol on stage outfits

Cube Entertainment apologizes for (G)I-dle's unauthorized use of the Red Cross symbol on stage outfits.

Cube Entertainment, the management agency of K-pop group (G)I-dle, has issued an apology following the controversy over the use of the Red Cross emblem on the group's stage outfits. During their performance on the South Korean music show Music Bank on July 19, the members wore lifeguard-themed outfits that displayed the Red Cross symbol, which requires approval from the Red Cross under South Korean law.

According to Article 25 of South Korea's National Red Cross Act, unauthorized use of the Red Cross emblem is prohibited and punishable by a fine not exceeding 10 million won (US$7,200). An official from the Republic of Korea National Red Cross confirmed to media outlets that Cube Entertainment had not requested permission to use the emblem. However, the Red Cross decided not to impose any fines, stating, "We determined that [the act] was done unintentionally."

안녕하세요,
큐브엔터테인먼트입니다.
7월 19일 방송된 KBS 2TV '뮤직뱅크' (여자)아이들의 '클락션 (Klaxon)' 무대 의상 관련해 전달드립니다.

해당 무대 의상에 문제가 있던 점을 인지하고
대한적십자사와 연락하여 사과 후 재발 방지 및 후속 조치에 대해 적극적으로 협의하고 있습니다.

당사는…

— CUBE ENTERTAINMENT (@cubeunited) July 22, 2024

In response to the incident, Cube Entertainment released a statement on July 22 via social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, apologizing for the oversight. The agency stated, "We will contact the agency regarding the issue and request measures to prevent any recurrence." They further elaborated, "We would like to once again apologize to everyone who was inconvenienced. We sincerely thank all the fans who always show much interest and support for (G)I-dle." 

The controversy emerged shortly after the release of (G)I-dle's latest extended play, "I Sway," on July 8. The group's performance of their new song "Klaxon" on Music Bank was meant to promote the EP.