SNSD Tiffany Removal From 'Sister's Slam Dunk' Due to Japan Rising Sun Flag Scandal Confirmed

SNSD's Tiffany Hwang received major backlash regarding very controversial Snapchat and Instagram posts showing a Tokyo Japan sticker and an imperial war flag. These was unfortunately publicized last August 13 -- right before the National Liberation Day of Korea. As part of SM TOWN, the group was in Japan at that time and what should have been a fun concert and get together with friends turned into a nightmare as Tiffany became the target of much hatred and led to her being removed from Sister's Slam Dunk.

Whether intentional or not, Tiffany's behavior certainly provoked the ire of the majority. On the other hand, there are many others who are also defending her, saying that the trending Girl's Generation singer who was born in California just made a mistake due to her background and upbringing.

The Japanese flag emoji included in her seemingly innocent post didn't escape the public's eye. It was said that her fans advised her about it and she heeded their warning immediately by deleting it especially since Korea's National Liberation commemoration was held the next day.

However, she was further pushed into a tight spot because she reportedly committed another atrocity by posting a picture of her purse which included the Tokyo Japan sticker. Adding to the damage was the fact that the sticker's backdrop showed the Japanese Rising Sun Flag, also known as "Hinomaru." This was paraded by the Imperial Army when they were terrorizing the nation during World War II. The latter act shows that she's already aware of the situation she's in but still chose to be deviant.

The incident further caused the removal of Tiffany from KBS' Sister's Slam Dunk, a popular variety show in Korea that features high-profile guests. SM Entertainment was forced to expel her due to the audience's clamor. SM stated that "[the] withdrawal was decided on after discussing with the show. Tiffany is deeply reflecting on her mistake of uploading a social media post with writing that included the design of the rising sun on National Liberation Day." This move by one of South Korea's biggest entertainment companies also sparked rumors about future exits, possibly another withdrawal from the Girl's Generation group.

In closing, this is Tiffany's apology:

"Hello, this is Tiffany. I apologize for causing concern to many people due to my mistake on such a cherished, meaningful day. I'm embarrassed at myself for disappointing people through this mistake, and I'm reflecting on my action. From now on, I'll make sure to remember that a lot of people are watching my actions and seeing my words, so I'll work hard to become a person who thinks deeply so something like this does not happen again. Once again, I'm sorry for disappointing people because I was lacking."