K-pop veteran G-Dragon is facing intense criticism after a recent performance in Macau. The BIGBANG member appeared on stage at the K-Spark festival wearing a shirt featuring a Dutch racial slur. Following an immediate outcry from international fans, his agency, Galaxy Corporation, has issued a formal apology.
During his set on Saturday, G-Dragon wore a graphic tee with the Dutch phrase “RONNY, EEN GEILE NEGER– JONGEN.” Translated into English, the text includes a derogatory slur for Black people alongside sexual language.
While G-Dragon wore a jacket over the shirt, the text remained clearly visible whenever he turned around. Footage of the outfit quickly went viral, with one social media post reaching over a million views as fans demanded accountability. Many noted that the term “neger” in Dutch is an offensive epithet, making its inclusion on stage attire highly inappropriate.
G-Dragon was recently seen on tour wearing a shirt featuring, a racial slur; the hard n word in dutch. regardless of intent, this is something that warrants discussion and accountability. pic.twitter.com/UbFRaVWYTp
— Naevis -77.82X-78.29 (@naevisualizer) May 2, 2026
Galaxy Corporation Responds
Galaxy Corporation released a statement on Monday acknowledging the oversight. The agency admitted that the styling choice lacked the necessary cultural awareness for a global artist.
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“We sincerely apologise for the inclusion of a phrase that is inappropriate in its social and cultural context,” the agency stated. They added that the incident served as a reminder of the “importance of cultural sensitivity and responsible review.” The company has promised to overhaul its internal processes, specifically regarding how stage outfits are vetted and approved before public appearances.
A Pattern of Insensitivity?
This is not the first time G-Dragon has faced backlash for cultural or political themes. In 2025, he drew criticism for naming his solo album Übermensch. While the term originates from Nietzschean philosophy to describe a “super-human,” it is also a term historically co-opted by the Nazi party and remains popular in white supremacist circles.
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At the time, G-Dragon explained he chose the title to represent “the idea of presenting a stronger and tougher version of ourselves.” However, combined with this recent incident, some critics and fans are questioning the lack of vetting in his creative and fashion choices.
The apology comes as G-Dragon and BIGBANG prepare for major 20th-anniversary activities. Fans have flooded the singer’s Instagram comments, with many asking for a personal statement from the artist himself. So far, G-Dragon has not publicly commented on the shirt.
Galaxy Corporation says they remain committed to respecting the “diverse cultural backgrounds and values” of their global fans. They have pledged to operate under “more careful standards” to ensure such an incident does not happen again.
