Korean pop group BTS is facing criticism from certain fans following a recent encounter with controversial American artist Chris Brown at his Toronto concert. J-Hope (Jung Ho-seok) and RM (Kim Nam-joon) were spotted at Brown’s show at Rogers Stadium, where he performed alongside Usher. BTS is set to take the same stage on August 22 and 23.
In a photo shared on Brown’s Instagram, J-Hope and RM are seen with the singer, and videos on social media captured them enjoying the performance. Brown has a history of legal issues, starting in 2009 with a felony assault charge against his then-girlfriend, singer Rihanna. He faced additional assault charges and served jail time in 2014. Recently, he pleaded guilty to assaulting a producer in a London nightclub.
The online response from BTS fans, known as the ARMY, has been mixed. Some expressed disappointment in J-Hope and RM for associating with Brown, while others defended the members, suggesting they may have been at the concert to see Usher instead. Opinions vary on social media, with debates over separating the artist from their actions and not rushing to judgment. BTS representatives have not yet responded to requests for comment.
