Korean music group BTS is facing criticism from some of its fans following a recent incident where two members were seen with controversial American artist Chris Brown at his concert in Toronto. J-Hope (Jung Ho-seok) and RM (Kim Nam-joon) were in attendance at Brown’s show, which he co-headlined with Usher at Rogers Stadium. BTS is set to perform at the same venue on August 22 and 23.
Photos and videos shared on social media showed J-Hope and RM posing with Brown and enjoying the concert. Brown, known for his criminal record and multiple assault charges, has a history of legal troubles dating back to 2009 when he pleaded guilty to assaulting his then-girlfriend, singer Rihanna. He has faced various other assault charges and even served time in jail in 2014. Most recently, Brown pleaded guilty to an assault charge for an incident in a London nightclub.
The images and clips from the event have stirred mixed reactions among BTS’s fan base, known as the ARMY. Some fans expressed disappointment in the two members for associating with Brown, with one Redditor remarking that it was challenging to see the idols standing next to Brown. Others defended J-Hope and RM, pointing out that they may have attended the concert to see Usher and not necessarily to support Brown.
While acknowledging the seriousness of Brown’s past actions, some fans emphasized the importance of not jumping to conclusions about BTS members’ intentions or moral beliefs based on one event. As of now, BTS representatives have not responded to requests for comments on the matter.