BTS star Jin's return from military service marred by fan misconduct allegations

The star of the Korean band BTS has completed his mandatory military service. To celebrate Jin's return, the group organized a meeting. However, it emerged that some fans of the singer took the opportunity to engage in inappropriate behaviour, leading to allegations of sexual harassment. The police are investigating the matter.

The law in South Korea applies equally to all citizens. Therefore, regardless of status, every man must undergo mandatory military service. The training lasts 18 to 21 months and applies to Koreans aged 18 to 35. After completing the training, men maintain reservist status for eight years. For many stars, mandatory military service means putting their careers on hold, affecting both them and their fans.

Jin, one of the BTS group's vocalists, began his mandatory military service at the end of 2022. Fans eagerly awaited the day he would leave the barracks. Their wait ended on June 12, 2024. Jin officially completed his military training in South Korea, bringing relief to fans.

The managers of BTS decided to celebrate Jin's return to normal life. On this occasion, a meeting with the star was organized, attended by over a thousand fans. K-pop enthusiasts could embrace their idol, give him a gift, or take a selfie. However, several individuals crossed the line between good taste and socially acceptable behaviour.

Police officers from the Songpa Police Station in Seoul confirmed that on June 14, they received a report about a suspected crime. The complaint, submitted through the National Petition System, concerned a potential violation of the Sexual Violence Punishment Act.

A police representative told "Soompi": "We received a complaint through the National Petition System, but we have not received a formal complaint. We have not yet apprehended any suspects."

The police are currently analyzing the complaint. Its author refers to a situation in which Jin's fans tried to kiss the artist during a meeting at BTS Fest. In videos and photos posted online, the artist appears surprised and tries to move his head away. If the police identify suspects and prove their guilt, they could face several years in prison.