South Korean Police Question Japanese Woman Over Alleged Non-consensual Kiss of BTS Member

South Korean police have summoned a Japanese woman for allegedly kissing BTS member Jin without consent during a public event last year. The investigation has revived discussions on celebrity interactions with fans and the implications of consent in such scenarios.

The South Korean police have initiated questioning of a Japanese woman accused of kissing Jin, a member of the globally renowned K-pop group BTS, without his consent. The incident reportedly occurred during a fan event in Seoul last June, celebrating Jin's discharge from mandatory military service.

The woman, whose name has not been disclosed, was among a crowd of adoring fans when she unexpectedly planted a kiss on Jin's cheek. This action, captured in viral video footage, showcased Jin's discomfort, particularly as he was in an environment where other female fans also attempted to kiss him. Following the incident, a formal legal complaint was lodged on a government website, prompting the police to take action.

Working in conjunction with Japanese law enforcement, the South Korean authorities have identified the alleged perpetrator. According to the Songpa police station in southern Seoul, should the woman agree to the police summons, she will answer to potential charges of sexual harassment. Additionally, the police have not disclosed measures that might be undertaken if she chooses not to comply. Reports suggest that the woman, in her 50s, boasted online about her brief interaction with Jin, describing his skin as “soft.”

The management of BTS, Hybe, has not provided any immediate comments on the case. The incident has reignited discussions surrounding the boundaries of celebrity interactions with fans, particularly the cultural nuances that exist between South Korea and Japan. Despite historical tensions stemming from Japan's colonial past in Korea, both countries enjoy vibrant cultural exchanges, notably illustrated by the popularity of K-pop and Korean television dramas among Japanese audiences.

BTS enjoys an immensely loyal following, referred to as the "BTS Army." As members of the band undergo military service – a requirement for South Korean males – the group has temporarily paused their musical endeavors. Jin, who is 32 years old, was the first band member to enlist back in 2022, and the management has indicated that the group plans to unite for future projects following their service obligations.