BTS’ Jungkook is facing backlash for wearing a hat with the slogan “Make Tokyo Great Again.” The phrase echoes Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” but with ties to nationalist rhetoric in Japan, stirring controversy given Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike’s alleged anti-Korean stance.
Jungkook quickly apologized, saying he was unaware of the slogan’s meaning and had already thrown away the hat. His apology sparked mixed reactions—fans showed support while others doubted how he missed the implications.
My Daily published an article praising Jungkook’s apology as “the true positive example of an apology” and urged the public to end excessive criticism.
Buts fans aren’t buying HYBE’s handling of the situation. Netizens slammed the agency’s media play, saying:
HYBE, if this is how you media play, I suggest you stop.
Such articles prove they’re unable to catch the vibe.
He simply did wrong and apologized. Why are they trying to overly-praise him?
Ah FR, why are they media playing in this way LOL.
HYBE was previously accused of trying to shift attention away from Jungkook’s controversy by spotlighting NJZ (formerly NewJeans).
BTS’s Jungkook Apologizes After Sparking Controversy With Japan “MAGA” Hat
NJZ (NewJeans) Allegedly Spotted Clubbing, HYBE Accused Of “Media Play” Following BTS Jungkook’s Controversy