Girls’ Generation member Tiffany has upset fans with a recent post on social media. The K-pop star caused a stir when she posted a photo of the Tokyo Dome Concert on Sunday, the day before National Liberation Day. The singer was denounced for using the Japanese flag emoticon, as well as the rising sun flag which represents Japanese imperialism.

(Tiffany's instagram)

As the dispute seemed to get worse, Tiffany posted an apology on her Instagram on Monday saying, “I am sorry for causing trouble on such a meaningful day. I am very embarrassed and regretful about my mistake, I will be more considerate next time.”

Despite her apology, anger from netizens persisted with comments ranging from “Do you think a letter can solve everything?” to “Just leave Korea.”

An official at an entertainment agency recently cautioned celebrities about how they welcome National Liberation Day. As it is an important day for all Korean citizens the slightest mistake can get fans riled up.

“Celebrities need to be more careful when they use social media. What seems to be nothing, can trigger a bad outcome,” an industry official was quoted by Chosun.com as saying.

In contrast to Tiffany, singers Jun Hyo-seong, Bada, DIA, and actors Lee Ki-woo and Han Ji-min were praised for their patriotic actions via social media.

Top: Jun Hyo-seong, Bada, DIA (Instagram)

Jun posted a photo on her Instagram showing her wearing a butterfly bracelet that symbolizes the Korean comfort women who suffered from the tragic history of Japanese colonialism. She wrote, “It is National Liberation Day. Thank you, I will not forget.”

Bada posted a short clip on her Instagram, saying “Our current happiness is all due to the sacrifice of patriotic martyrs. I will live with gratitude.”

K-pop girl group DIA also expressed their thanks to patriotic martyrs with a self-written letter and a photo showing the members holding Korean flags.

Top: Lee Ki-woo and Han Ji-min (Instagram)

Actors Lee and Han similarly posted pictures of themselves with Korean flags and words that appreciate the nation’s history.

By Choi Hyung-won (h.c1110@heraldcorp.com)