7 times BTS members were stuck in controversies

BTS, also known as Bangtan Sonyeondan or Bulletproof Boy Scouts, is considered one of the biggest boy bands on the global level. It features seven members— Kim Seok-jin, Suga, j-hope, Kim Namjoon, Jimin, Kim Taehyung, and Jungkook.

Formed in 2010 by BigHit Music, the band has been popular for their meaningful music and work, which expanded on different aspects of life, including the dark side of high school, mental health, slice-of-life concepts, grief, loss, themes of self-love and acceptance, individualism, and more.

In present times, the group and its seven members have a wide reach and impact, internationally and domestically. They have inspired millions of people with their meaningful music. However, the group did not escape the weave of controversies as they strove for success and have caused a lot of debate on the internet over the years.

7 controversies of BTS members

1) Islamophobic allegations against BTS Kim Namjoon

Kim Namjoon (Image via @rkive/Instagram)

In August 2023, Kim Namjoon was allegedly accused of Islamophobic views after he shared American singer Frank Ocean's track Bad Religion on his Instagram story. Bad Religion has been deemed controversial by some listeners as they found its lyrics Islamophobic. In general, the track depicted loving someone without the restrictions set by religion.

Subsequently, Kim Namjoon opened up about the allegations during a Weverse Live, where he denied and stated that he did not insult any religion, and thus, he would not apologize. He further disclosed that he respects every religion.

"There was no intention or purpose to insult a religion. I respect every belief and religion," said Kim Namjoon.

2) BTS Jimin's atomic bomb T-shirt controversy

In 2018, BTS's much-awaited performance on Asahi's Music Station was called off due to Jimin's atomic bomb T-shirt controversy. The idol received backlash after a picture featuring him donning a shirt depicting the US nuclear bombing of Hiroshima, Japan, circulated on social media, and it was revealed that he wore the outfit in 2017.

The white T-shirt featured the following words, "Patriotism Our History Liberation Korea," and showcased a photo of the mushroom cloud over Hiroshima. The outfit featured another picture where Korean people were spotted commemorating Independence Day on August 15, 1945. Following the male artist's controversy, Bighit Music issued an apology statement for hurting the sentiments of the people.

3) BTS Kim Taehyung smoking controversy at Grammy Awards 2022

In April 2022, Kim Taehyung received backlash from internet users as multiple pictures of the male artist smoking circulated on social media from the Grammy Awards held in Las Vegas. He was spotted smoking with an individual backstage at the prestigious awards ceremony before performing on the group's single Butter.

The idol's agency released no statement as the pictures went viral on social media. However, the fans continued to showcase their support for Kim Taehyung as they felt that it was a breach of privacy to share the idol's private moments.

4) BTS Jin's condom controversy

In November 2014, BTS Jin's cooking tutorial circulated on social media, where fans discovered a packet of condoms behind the male artist inside the group's dorm. The image sparked multiple rumors as fans concluded that the condom brand was not acquainted with South Korea, and thus, it might have been gifted by one of their international admirers.

Subsequently, BigHit Music released a statement on November 14, 2014, confirming that the item spotted in Jin's cooking tutorial was indeed a condom, and he received the items from his fans.

"The item within the picture is indeed a condom. Those were presents they received from fans," the statement read.

5) BTS Kim Namjoon offended Chinese fans

Kim Namjoon received backlash from Chinese fans following his speech at the Van Fleet Awards in 2020. He delivered a speech emphasizing the group's participation in strengthening South Korea and USA's relations, sparking diplomatic complications.

Subsequently, Chinese fans on social media called out the group's leader, who accused Kim Namjoon of disregarding the sacrifices made by their native soldiers during the war period.

6) Jungkook apologized for not maintaining social distancing during Covid-19

In May 2020, Jungkook was spotted at an Itaewon bar and club, with his close friends. Subsequently, the male artist was under fire for not following the stringent COVID-19 safety measures, as he did not follow the social distancing rules.

He was criticized for not ensuring his and other's safety. However, BigHit Music released an apology statement about the incident on May 18, confirming that the male artist visited the Itaewon club. However, he was not at the place where the confirmed COVID-19 cases were discovered, and he underwent a Covid-19 test.

7) Suga's DUI controversy

Seoul Yongsan Police Station reported on August 7, 2024, that BTS Suga was found driving an electric scooter alone under the alcohol influence. He was found lying on the floor, and was taken to the police station for further investigation. According to Seoul Yongsan Police Station, the male artist violated the Road Traffic Act while riding an electric scooter under the influence.

Subsequently, BigHit Music issued a statement confirming the news that Suga was using an electric kickboard while riding on his way home in a drunken state. They assured the fandom that he was using a helmet. The male artist also issued an apology statement on the South Korean social media platform, Weverse.

The seven-member band will reportedly reunite as a group following the completion of their mandatory military service in 2025.

Edited by Ahana Mukhopadhyay