South Korean police have called a Japanese woman to appear for questioning over claims that she kissed BTS member Jin without his consent at a public event last year. The incident happened in June at a free hug gathering in Seoul, organized to celebrate Jin’s completion of military service. As he greeted fans, the woman unexpectedly kissed his cheek, sparking concerns over personal space and consent.
Officials at Seoul’s Songpa police station stated that they have asked the woman to appear for questioning regarding a sexual harassment allegation. However, they withheld her identity due to privacy regulations. The case has gained significant attention, fueling debates about fan conduct and legal safeguards for public figures in South Korea.
The investigation was launched after authorities received an online complaint about the incident. A spokesperson from Seoul’s Songpa police station confirmed that details could not be disclosed as the case was still under review. Reports indicate that South Korean police identified the woman with assistance from Japanese authorities, but she has so far refused to appear for questioning.
According to Yonhap news agency, the woman, believed to be in her 50s, allegedly boasted about the incident in an online blog post, writing that her lips had touched Jin’s neck and describing his skin as “soft. ” The viral video of the moment showed Jin appearing visibly uncomfortable after the unexpected kiss.
The event in June 2024 marked both Jin’s return from mandatory military service and BTS’s 11th anniversary. Approximately 1,000 fans attended the free hug event in Seoul, where Jin greeted supporters. The sudden kiss sparked controversy, raising discussions about personal space and fan conduct in South Korea’s entertainment industry.
HYBE, the company managing BTS, has not stated the incident. While K-pop idols often engage with fans through organized meet-and-greet events, the case has highlighted concerns about celebrity safety and the legal consequences of inappropriate behavior at public gatherings.
BTS, formed in 2013, has a massive global following known as the “Army.” Like all eligible South Korean men, the seven members were required to complete mandatory military service, leading to a temporary break for the group. Jin, the oldest member at 32, was the first to enlist in December 2022 and completed his service in June 2024.
J-Hope completed his military service in October last year, while the remaining members—V, Jungkook, RM, Jimin, and Suga—are still serving. BTS’s management has indicated that the group will reunite after all members finish their mandatory service, though no official date has been announced.
