During a recent free hug event sponsored by BTS’ Jin, some fans went over the limit, which had serious consequences. The gathering was supposed to be a significant gift to the Army once Jin had completed his mandatory military service. However, the actions of a few fans have prompted accusations of sexual harassment.
Jin sponsored a free hug event on June 13 at Seoul’s Jamsil Indoor Gymnasium. It was a one-of-a-kind opportunity to mark his homecoming from military service and express gratitude to his supporters, known as ARMY. 1000 lucky admirers attended the event, eager to meet Jin in person. Most fans hugged Jin to convey their joy and gratitude. However, things did not proceed quite as planned.
Controversy Arises
Amid the excitement, a few admirers tried to kiss Jin on the cheek without his permission. This inappropriate behaviour was caught on camera, causing indignation among other fans and netizens. The supporters’ behaviours were deemed insulting and unprofessional, overshadowing the event’s positive goals.
On June 14, the Seoul Songpa Police Station said that a report had been filed against the fans who attempted to kiss Jin. The report charges them with sexual harassment and violating the Sexual Violence Punishment Act. The police received the complaints through the National Petition Platform and are currently evaluating the details to see whether a formal investigation is required.
Netizens React
The incident has sparked a deluge of reactions from netizens. Many people voiced dissatisfaction and indignation about the situation. Responses included, “This meaningful event got trashed,” “That’s sexual harassment, period,” along with “They crossed the line.” The consensus is clear: the few fans’ acts were terrible.
Jin’s free hug event was meant to be a fun way to commemorate his comeback and express gratitude to his supporters. Unfortunately, the irresponsible behavior of a few individuals has marred the event’s memories. The story serves as a reminder of the importance of setting personal limits, especially in the midst of enthusiasm and adoration. The police investigation will determine the next steps in resolving this matter.
