Fans who kissed BTS' Jin during free hug event face sexual harassment charges

Fans who kissed BTS’ Jin without consent during his recent free hug event are facing sexual harassment charges.

Jin held a free hug event for ARMY following the end of his mandatory military service on June 13 at the Seoul Jamsil Indoor Gymnasium, and fans were happy for the wholesome event and grateful for Jin’s sweet gift. However, it seems not everything about the fan meeting was wholesome. Of the 1000 fans invited, most fans hugged him and left quickly, but a few fans’ attempts to kiss Jin’s cheek were caught on camera, sparking controversy and angering fans.

On June 14, the Seoul Songpa Police Station revealed a report had been filed accusing fans who attempted to kiss Jin of committing sexual harassment and violating the Sexual Violence Punishment Act. The police, who received complaints through the National Petition Platform, plan to review the contents of the report to determine whether to conduct a formal investigation.

The plaintiff ‘A’ stated through an online fan community forum, “In the middle of Jin’s offline fan meeting with 1000 fans in celebration of his military discharge, it was reported that some fans attempted sexual harassment, which angered me as a fan who enjoys BTS’ music. The fans who sexually harassed Jin should be immediately investigated and punished under Article 11 of the Sexual Violence Punishment Act for ‘molestation in a crowded place.'”

Netizens commented, “This meaningful event got trashed,” “That’s sexual harassment, period,” “They crossed the line,” and more. 

What are your thoughts on the issue?