In brief
A Japanese woman is under scrutiny by South Korean authorities after reportedly kissing BTS member Jin without his consent, stemming from an incident at a public event in June 2024.
The South Korean police have summoned a Japanese woman for interrogation in connection with allegations that she kissed Jin, a member of the global K-pop sensation BTS, without his consent during a fan event in Seoul last year. The incident occurred in June 2024, celebrating Jin’s discharge from military service, during which he was engaging with fans and offering hugs.A viral video showcased the moment when the unnamed woman unexpectedly kissed Jin on the cheek, capturing the idol's visible discomfort. Following the release of the footage, a formal complaint was submitted via a government portal. This prompted the police to launch an investigation into the matter.The Songpa police station has confirmed that they identified the woman through collaboration with Japanese law enforcement. She is expected to face questioning pertaining to potential sexual harassment charges, although the police have not disclosed her identity or provided further personal details. Reports from South Korean media indicate that the woman, believed to be in her 50s, had publicly boasted about the kiss, describing Jin’s skin as "soft."The company managing BTS, Hybe, has yet to respond to inquiries concerning the situation. Despite a history of tensions between South Korea and Japan due to past colonial rule, cultural exchanges between the two nations remain strong, with many Japanese fans actively engaging in K-pop and Korean media.BTS, with a dedicated global fanbase known as the "Army," paused their activities while all members completed military service, a requirement for eligible South Korean men. Jin, at 32, was the first member to enlist in 2022. The group plans to reunite later this year as all members return from their service.
