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[talk] [Latest] What is the true political meaning behind Jungkook's hat? A complete summary including the brand's statement!
Why did the "Make Tokyo Great Again" hat worn by BTS Jungkook cause controversy? A detailed explanation of everything from the political meaning, the reaction in Korea, the apology process and the brand's explanation, to his activities after his discharge!
table of contents 1. The beginning of the controversy: What kind of hat was Jungkook wearing? 2. "MAKE TOKYO GREAT AGAIN" What does this phrase mean? 3. Reactions from Korean and international fans: Why are they so sensitive? 4. Jungkook's quick and sincere apology 5. Official statement from the brand "basicks" and its response after the controversy 6. Surprise appearance right after being discharged from the military! Deep affection for fans 7. Stalker incidents... disturbing events immediately after discharge 8. This controversy shows the power and responsibility of fashion 9. Summary: Looking forward to what's to come from Jungkook and BTS! |
1. The beginning of the controversy: What kind of hat was Jungkook wearing?
On June 13, 2025, BTS Jungkook wore a black cap during the rehearsal for J-HOPE's concert "HOPE ON THE STREET FINAL" with the words "MAKE TOKYO GREAT AGAIN" written on it. This single word caused a huge uproar on social media.
No one could have predicted that his public fashion choice so soon after his discharge would cause such political controversy.
2. "MAKE TOKYO GREAT AGAIN" What does this phrase mean?
This phrase is known as a parody of former US President Trump's election slogan "MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN (MAGA)." However, in Japan, some far-right groups, politicians and radical YouTubers use it as a slogan symbolizing "pre-war Japan" and the "glory of the imperialist era," and it has a very sensitive meaning for people in Asian countries, including Korea.
In other words, this sentence is not simply a "message of support for Tokyo"; it is also an extremely dangerous symbol that evokes historical awareness and political stances.
3. Reactions from Korean and international fans: Why are they so sensitive?
In particular, there was a strong reaction in South Korea, with many angry voices saying, "This is glorifying the history of colonial rule," and "Why use that word of all things?" Regardless of Jungkook's intentions, it is true that many fans felt that it was "reckless" for a star with international influence.
4. Jungkook's quick and sincere apology
The day after the controversy, on the night of June 14th, Jungkook posted what appeared to be a handwritten apology on Weverse.
"I deeply regret having worn the hat without checking the historical and political significance of the words on it."
"There was no political intent whatsoever."
"I am truly sorry for disappointing so many people."
He also revealed that he had already disposed of the hat in question, and many fans praised his honest response as being "typical of Jungkook."
5. Official statement from the brand "basicks" and its response after the controversy
The hat was made by the Japanese fashion brand "basicks," who also commented on Instagram:
"We apologize to anyone who was offended."
"There was absolutely no political intent behind it; it was just a wish for the future of Tokyo's fashion industry."
"I believe in freedom of expression."
However, this statement did not completely put an end to the fire, with some people saying that it "does not acknowledge responsibility for causing misunderstanding" and that it "sounds like an excuse."
6. Surprise appearance right after being discharged from the military! Deep affection for fans
Jungkook will be discharged from the military on June 11, 2025. Just two days later, he made a surprise appearance at J-Hope's concert, singing "Seven." Many fans were moved to tears by the reunion with ARMY.
A photo of the two of them together, taken in a Purikura style, with Jimin, who was discharged from the military on the same day, was posted on Instagram, which also became a hot topic.
7. Stalker incidents... disturbing events immediately after discharge
Shortly after the hat incident, on June 12th, it was reported that a stalker had attempted to break into Jungkook's house. The suspicious person repeatedly punched the front door's PIN code, which was reported to the police, and he was arrested.
This incident, which threatened the private space of an artist shortly after being discharged from the military, once again made us think about the safety of artists and the distance they should maintain between themselves and their fans.
8. This controversy shows the power and responsibility of fashion
This incident clearly demonstrates that a single item worn by an artist can have such an impact that it sparks international controversy.
We live in an age where fashion carries messages, and even unconscious choices can sometimes take on powerful meanings.
9. Summary: Looking forward to what's to come from Jungkook and BTS!
The hat incident must have given Jungkook a new awareness of his influence as an artist and his responsibility to prevent misunderstandings. Having calmed the situation down with a sincere response, he is sure to show even more growth in the future.
As BTS members are being discharged one after another, the group is close to returning to work as a full group. ARMYs around the world are eagerly awaiting their comeback.
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