South Korean flag misrepresented in market accessories sparks controversy

Professor Suh Kyung‑deok of Sungshin Women’s University warned that accessories sold in a well‑known Korean traditional market feature a distorted Taegukgi, with the flag’s colors reversed. The same erroneous design also appeared in social‑media posters for the upcoming Liberation Day (Gwangbokjeol) event.

Suh called the domestic production and sale of such items “unacceptable,” urging sellers to verify the accuracy of national‑symbol products, even when sourced from abroad. He noted that while overseas brands have faced criticism for similar mistakes, Korean merchants must also take responsibility, especially as tourism to Korea continues to grow.