South Korean police have summoned a Japanese woman for questioning after she allegedly kissed Jin, a member of the globally renowned K-pop group BTS, without his consent during a public event. The incident occurred in June 2024 during a “free hug” event in Seoul, organized to celebrate Jin’s discharge from mandatory military service and the band’s 11-year anniversary. Approximately 1,000 fans attended the event. During the gathering, a woman in her 50s reportedly kissed Jin on the cheek, leaving him visibly uncomfortable. Following an online complaint, authorities identified the woman with assistance from Japanese police. She has been uncooperative and has not responded to summons for questioning. The police are investigating the incident as a case of sexual harassment in a public space.
This incident has sparked discussions about the importance of respecting personal boundaries, even in public fan events. BTS, formed in 2013, has a massive international fanbase known as the “Army.” Jin, whose real name is Kim Seok-jin, is the eldest member of the group at 32 years old.
The case highlights the challenges celebrities face regarding personal space and the legal implications of fan interactions that cross boundaries.
