BTS’s Jungkook Apologizes for Wearing Controversial Hat, Triggers Sell-Out Frenzy
On June 13, Jungkook appeared as a special guest at “HOPE ON THE STREET FINAL“, j-hope’s world tour encore concert held at Goyang Stadium. During rehearsals, fans noticed a hat he wore emblazoned with the phrase “MAKE TOKYO GREAT AGAIN”—a parody of Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” campaign slogan, but known in Japan as being co-opted by far-right nationalists.
Backlash was swift. Given the phrase’s sensitive political connotations—mirrored by instances such as former Korean president Yoon Suk-yeol wearing a similar “Make Korea Great Again” hat—many criticized Jungkook for his lack of awareness.
Addressing the controversy on fan platform Weverse in the early hours of June 14, Jungkook stated, “I sincerely apologize for causing disappointment and discomfort to many people due to the phrase written on the hat I wore during rehearsal. I deeply acknowledge that it was my lack of awareness in wearing something without fully confirming the historical and political implications of the phrase, and I take this matter seriously.”
He continued, “There’s no excuse. I was careless and lacked judgment. I will think more deeply and act more cautiously from now on. I humbly accept all the criticism. I have already discarded the hat. Once again, I am truly sorry.”
Despite his apology, the brand responsible for the hat posted an update on Instagram stating the item had sold out, even including a photo of Jungkook wearing it.
This development drew further ire online. Netizens responded with comments like “People are buying a far-right slogan hat just because Jungkook wore it? Insane”, “He was thoughtless, but I hope this becomes a chance for him to study history more” and “This is disappointing from someone as globally influential as BTS.”
However, fans are showing support for Jungkook by creating hashtags like “Jungkook we love you”, “Always with Jungkook” and “Jungkook forever”.
The incident highlights the complex intersection of pop culture, global influence and political sensitivity—especially for figures like Jungkook whose every move is scrutinized on a global scale.
