We were not aware that the graphic design could be linked to triads, says retail store owner
The owner of retail chain G.O.D. apologised yesterday for 'causing misunderstanding' by selling T-shirts and postcards bearing the Chinese characters for '14K' - which is the name of a triad gang.
Douglas Young, co-founder and chief executive of G.O.D., said the design was inspired by a graphic his design team saw on an old film poster or music CD cover. They were unaware of the triad connotations before the police raided G.O.D. two days ago.
'The design reflects the unique cultural value of gold and jewellery shops in Hong Kong,' he said. 'The graphic design resembles the traditional gold plate that the Chinese brides used to wear on their necks. We wanted to make it humorous and it did not occur to us that the term '14K' is equivocal.'
Mr Young, arrested during police raids along with 17 staff members, was released on bail to report to police in about two weeks.
Police said they received no inquiries concerning the T-shirts. About a dozen of the T-shirts had been sold since they went on sale in September and none had sourt a refund.
'I apologise for any inconvenience brought to our staff and my family,' Mr Young said. 'Our company is keen to play with ... themes with a local flavour.'