Korean pop group BTS is receiving criticism from a section of their fans following a photo opportunity with controversial American artist Chris Brown and attendance at his Toronto concert on Wednesday. J-Hope (Jung Ho-seok) and RM (Kim Nam-joon) were present at the show where Brown performed alongside Usher at Rogers Stadium. BTS is set to perform at the same venue on August 22 and 23.
In an image shared on Brown’s Instagram, J-Hope and RM are seen alongside the singer. Additionally, videos on social media captured the two members enjoying the show. Brown has a criminal record with various assault charges dating back to 2009 when he pleaded guilty to assaulting his then-girlfriend, Rihanna. He faced legal issues in 2014 resulting in jail time and more recently pleaded guilty to assaulting a producer in a London nightclub.
The online response from BTS’s fanbase, known as ARMY, has been divided, with some expressing disappointment in the members for associating with Brown. Others defended J-Hope and RM, suggesting they might have attended the concert to see Usher rather than to support Brown. The debate online ranges from criticizing the decision to attend the show to refraining from attacking the members’ character without knowing their intentions. BTS representatives have not yet responded to requests for comments.