Johnny Somali, a 24-year-old American YouTuber, has apologized after a highly controversial incident in Korea. Somali man sparked outrage when he kissed a statue symbolizing Korean victims of wartime sexual slavery known as the “comfort women” during his visit to Seoul’s Changdong History and Culture Park.

(Also read: Internet shocked by behavior of Indian YouTuber in China: bicycle theft, forced seat change)

According to a report by The Korea Times, Somali expressed regret for his actions in a video posted by YouTube channel Jcompany on Thursday. Standing next to the statue, Somali bowed and apologized to the Korean crowd, saying, “I want to apologize to the Koreans. I didn’t understand the meaning of the statue.” He further explained that his intention had been to entertain his American audience, but acknowledged that his behavior was disrespectful. Somalia also added in Korean: “I’m really sorry.”

Watch the clip here:

Skepticism surrounds his apology

Despite the apology, many viewers have expressed doubts about Somalia’s sincerity. Critics point out that the YouTuber has removed several more controversial posts from his social media accounts. In a notable incident, Somali posted a photo on Instagram of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe with the caption: “I defeated the Koreans for you, Shinzo Abe.” Although the YouTube post has since been deleted, the Instagram photo remains, albeit with a revised caption: “RIP Shinzo Abe!”

View the message here:

Google Trends: Johnny Somali

Ever since the YouTuber dropped the apology video, people have been searching for him, causing his name to trend on Google.

Adding to the controversy, Somali also posted a video of himself lying and dancing in a subway car, which has not yet been taken down. Although he deleted videos of him disrespecting the statue and causing unrest in a supermarket (incidents that led to a police investigation), questionable content is still visible online.

(Also read: Indian influencer faces backlash for mocking Chinese residents in viral video, people ask her to ‘get an education’)

Watch the video here:

Police investigation and ongoing controversy

According to The Korea Times, Somali is also being investigated by Seoul’s Mapo police for obstruction of business following his behavior at the supermarket. In addition, police are investigating allegations of assault and drug use. Somalia is currently under an ‘exit ban’, preventing him from leaving Korea until the investigation is completed.

However, skepticism surrounding his actions continues to grow as many question whether his apology is sincere or merely a response to public backlash.