Korean Police Investigate Japanese Fan for Unwanted Kiss on BTS's Jin

The incident, which occurred at a fan event last June, has led to a sexual harassment investigation after a fan filed a complaint against the woman, highlighting the complexities of fan culture in the K-pop industry.

A Japanese woman is currently under investigation by South Korean police after an unexpected kiss she planted on K-pop star Jin, a member of the globally popular group BTS, during a fan event last year. The police have formally requested that the woman, who is in Japan, return for questioning related to allegations of sexual harassment in a public setting.

The incident transpired at Jin's first post-military public event in Seoul last June, where he hosted a "hugathon" enabling him to embrace 1,000 fans. Instead of just greeting Jin with a hug, the woman reportedly kissed his face, prompting him to turn away in surprise. Other BTS fans expressed outrage over the woman's actions, leading one to file a criminal complaint, which initiated the police inquiry.

On June 13, 2024, Jin, who is officially known as Kim Seok-jin, celebrated his first public appearance after being discharged from military duty with an event that attracted 3,000 fans. During the three-hour long affair, fans who won a chance to hug the idol eagerly stood in line and took turns embracing him on stage.

The woman's unexpected kiss quickly became a focal point of the event, sparking widespread outrage among fans online. Clips of the controversial moment circulated rapidly, showcasing Jin's startled reaction and subsequent attempt to maintain decorum by moving on to the next fan. Later, the woman addressed the incident in her blog, claiming the kiss was made "on his neck" and describing his skin as "very soft."

Although her identity remains undisclosed, South Korean police confirmed that they successfully identified her with the help of their Japanese counterparts. The BBC has reached out to HYBE, the agency representing BTS, for comment on the ongoing situation.

Jin is notable for being the first BTS member to conclude military service, with fellow member J-Hope following suit in October. The remaining members — V, RM, Jimin, Jungkook, and Suga — are still active in their military service, and the band is not expected to regroup until June 2025. The incident also sheds light on the growing concern of any toxic elements within K-pop fandoms, as many idols have voiced their struggles with excessively obsessive fans known as "sasaengs," who often overstep personal boundaries and create uncomfortable situations.