SEOUL: BTS members J-Hope and RM are facing criticism from some fans after attending a Chris Brown concert, while V and Jungkook also came under scrutiny following a gym video posted on social media.
The backlash has fueled debate among fans over the group’s recent activities and responses to several controversies. J-Hope, whose real name is Jung Ho-seok, shared videos on Instagram Thursday, Aug. 13, showing himself and RM attending Brown’s concert.
The appearance drew criticism from some BTS fans, who pointed to allegations and legal issues involving the American singer. Brown pleaded guilty in 2009 to felony assault against Rihanna. In July 2026, he also pleaded guilty to affray over a 2023 nightclub attack in London.
The criticism comes as BTS is also facing backlash over its collaboration with Google Gemini AD, some fans have used the hashtag “ARMYsAgainstAI” to express their concerns about the partnership.
One fan on X criticized the group’s recent activities, writing, “AI ads and chris brown support… are they trying to remind us that they’re men and we should be disappointed in them or what.”
Another fan questioned whether RM was aware of Brown’s past, while another criticized the decision to attend the concert, saying that members with a largely female fan base should avoid attending a concert by an artist widely known for abuse allegations.
taehyung and jungkook in the gym omg look at the arms 💪🏻 pic.twitter.com/iRqCMfTNoQ
— 𓃦ִ (@layovermoods) August 14, 2026
The controversy sparks more after V, whose real name is Kim Tae-hyung, discussed hearing difficulties during a livestream. V later shared a short video of himself and Jungkook working out at a gym and listening to music. The two members were wearing sleeveless shirts, with Jungkook’s sleeve tattoo visible in the video.
The post received a strong reaction from fans. While some praised the members appearance, others criticized the timing of the post because it came shortly after the backlash involving J-Hope and RM.
They’re posting more content because the backlash HAS reached them, and theyre trying to distract everyone with the hopes that this will eventually die down and people will forget. But I need you guys to continue being loud about this, drag this for as long as possible
— Bangtan⁷ (@Misandrymonday) August 14, 2026
One user on X claimed the members were posting more content because the backlash had reached them and urged fans to continue speaking out rather than allowing the controversy to fade.
However, other fans defended V and Jungkook. Some argued that the two had shared gym content before the controversy and should not be held responsible for J-Hope and RM’s decision to attend Brown’s concert.
The combined controversies have led to increased discussion among BTS fans online, with reactions ranging from disappointment over the members recent activities to concern about V’s health update.
