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He shared a photo of him and singers Quoc Thien and Trung Quan Idol on his personal Facebook page on Monday with the caption: “I see so many of my colleagues and A-list stars going to see G-Long’s concert in Hanoi. I wonder, if a Vietnamese star went to perform in South Korea, if any stars there come to support? It feels a bit disheartening, maybe a little subjective, but in terms of professional skill, the three of us in the photo could take him on easily.”

G-Long is the nickname Vietnamese fans use for G-Dragon.

K-pop fans and G-Dragon supporters quickly reacted to Kieu’s post.

“G-Dragon has composed nearly 200 copyrighted songs, and you think his skills are not on par with yours?” a person called Thanh Nguyen posted.

Hai Anh said: “Maybe G-Dragon is no match for your vocal skills but he focuses on different aspects. He has dozens of hits worldwide, not to mention rap skills, stage performance and fashion style.”

On Tuesday Kieu apologized for his post and said it had caused misunderstandings and negative reactions. His comment came from admiration and was meant as a “lighthearted” take on music, not an attack or comparison with the Korean artist.

“I know G-Dragon is a famous artist with a big influence in K-pop. I have always respected the talent of international artists.”

He has learned to become more careful with his words, respect colleagues and show consideration for the audience, he said.

Bang Kieu sings “Thao Thuc for you” (musician Lam Phuong). Video: The Bros

Kieu, 52, was born in Hanoi and was part of bands “Chia Khoa Vang” (Golden Key), “Hoa Sua” (Milkwood Flower) and “Qua Dua Hau” (Watermelon) before starting a solo career.

He is known for his high voice and soft, storytelling singing style.

Last year he appeared on the show “Anh Trai Vuot Ngan Chong Gai” (Brothers Overcoming Challenges) as one of 17 members of the group “Gia Toc Toan Nang” (All-Talent Clan) and won the “Anh Tai Truyen Lua” award (Talented Firestarter).

He lived in the U.S. for several years and was married to Trizzie Phuong Trinh, with whom he has three sons.

He now lives in Vietnam with his girlfriend, and they have a four-year-old son.

G-Dragon, 38, was the leader of Big Bang, one of South Korea’s top boy bands, for 13 years. Over a 25-year career, he has gained popularity for his music and style and is known as the “King of K-pop.”

His shows in Hanoi on Nov. 8 and 9 were part of the “Übermensch World Tour” and drew nearly 100,000 spectators. Hanoi attracted the second largest audience on the tour after Tokyo, Japan.