The South Korean police have summoned a Japanese woman for questioning following accusations that she kissed Jin, a member of the K-pop group BTS, without his consent during a public event last June. The event in Seoul celebrated Jin’s completion of mandatory military service. During the event, Jin was offering hugs to fans when the Japanese woman suddenly kissed him on the cheek, causing him to appear uncomfortable. The incident was captured on video and someone filed a legal complaint on a government website.

The police in Songpa, southern Seoul, identified the woman with the assistance of Japanese authorities. If the woman accepts the summons, she may face questioning regarding potential charges of sexual harassment. Although the police did not disclose any further details, South Korean newsmedia reported that the woman is in her 50s and boasted online about kissing Jin’s “soft” skin. However, Hybe, the company that manages BTS, has not responded to the incident.

Despite historical tensions between Korea and Japan due to Japan’s colonial rule, both countries maintain strong tourist and cultural exchange. South Korean products like TV dramas and K-pop groups, including BTS, hold great popularity in Japan.

All members of BTS are part of the military due to their citizenship in South Korea, which has led to a pause in their musical activities. Jin, the oldest member at 32, was the first to join the military, and it has been announced that the band will reunite once all members have completed their service.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/28/world/asia/bts-kiss-south-korea-police.html