BTS, the popular K-pop group, is facing criticism from some of its fans following pictures of two band members, J-Hope and RM, with controversial American artist Chris Brown at his Toronto show. The duo attended Brown’s performance at Rogers Stadium, where he co-headlined with Usher. BTS is set to perform at the same venue later in August.
The images, shared on Brown’s Instagram, show J-Hope and RM posing with the singer and enjoying his show. Chris Brown has a history of legal issues, starting with a felony assault charge in 2009 for an attack on his then-girlfriend, Rihanna. He has faced multiple assault charges and was jailed in 2014. Recently, Brown pleaded guilty to an assault charge in a London nightclub incident.
The online reactions from BTS’s fan base, known as ARMY, have been mixed. While some fans expressed disappointment in the band members for associating with Brown, others defended J-Hope and RM, suggesting they may have attended the show to see Usher. The debate highlights the complexities of fans grappling with separating an artist’s personal history from their music.
As of now, representatives for BTS have not responded to requests for comments on the matter.