A viral anonymous post claiming an “uncomfortable encounter” with Mark Lee in New York has ignited controversy online, with netizens sharply divided over what actually happened and whether the situation has been misrepresented.

The discussion comes shortly after ongoing speculation surrounding Mark’s career direction following changes in his group activities and renewed rumors about possible U.S.-based solo promotions. Earlier buzz was also fueled by reports that executives from Def Jam Recordings had followed him on Instagram, adding further attention to his international prospects.

The controversy began when an anonymous user shared a detailed account of allegedly spotting Mark Lee at a musical performance in New York. The user wrote:

“I’m currently in New York, and I saw NCT’s Mark at a musical. Before the start of the show, he and his manager were talking really loudly in Korean, and because I was curious as to who would be talking so loudly like that in a public place, I turned around and saw him and told the person I came with, ‘Oh, it’s Mark Lee.’ But after I said that, he continued to cover his face with the musical brochure, holding it up and down while looking around. I felt bad because I thought I had made him uncomfortable, and even thought about saying sorry and leaving.”

The post continued with more serious allegations about perceived reactions from both Mark and his manager:

“I couldn’t concentrate on the musical for the first half. Before the musical started, the acquaintance I came with got up to go to the bathroom, and the manager stared her down, which was so annoying because we had no interest whatsoever… Even during intermission, my friend and I were running to go to the bathroom, but Mark was already running out like he was running away.”

The user concluded by questioning their own feelings about the situation:

“We have no idea what we did wrong, and it was so uncomfortable. He came in after the intermission ended and the lights went off, and ran out as soon as the curtain call started. I felt like I did something wrong, but it’s ok for me to feel bad about this, right?”

While the post quickly spread across social media, it also triggered immediate backlash. Many netizens argued that the narrative felt one-sided and overly interpretive, suggesting that the original poster may have contributed to the awkwardness by repeatedly looking back and overanalyzing the situation.

Some critics questioned how the OP could confidently interpret Mark Lee’s actions—such as covering his face or leaving quickly—as being directed specifically at them, especially in a crowded public venue. Others argued that labeling normal public behavior as “running away” or “glaring” could be an exaggeration shaped by perception rather than fact.

The incident has since split online communities.

As the debate continues, no official statement has been released by Mark Lee or his representatives. The situation remains based entirely on an anonymous account, leaving much of the story open to interpretation—and controversy.

Sources: Koreaboo