- Jungkook sparked outrage after wearing a hat parodying Trump’s slogan.
- Netizens called out cultural and political insensitivity.
- HYBE is accused of using NewJeans’ clubbing videos to divert attention.
After his military discharge, BTS’s Jungkook quickly found himself at the center of controversy for wearing a black cap printed with the phrase “Make Tokyo Great Again.”
To further complicate matters, HYBE faced accusations of attempting to shift public focus from Jungkook’s scandal by allowing NewJeans-related videos to circulate.
Jungkook’s Hat Controversy Ignites Political Debate While HYBE Faces Media Play Accusations
Jungkook’s post-military appearance at J-Hope’s concert rehearsal was meant to mark a joyful return—but one accessory drew sharp criticism. The “Make Tokyo Great Again” cap, referencing Donald Trump’s MAGA slogan, instantly became a flashpoint among Korean fans. Many interpreted it as tone-deaf or politically inappropriate given the tense Korea-Japan relations and Trump’s controversial global image.
Despite Jungkook issuing an apology via Weverse, Korean netizens remained divided. Some sympathized, saying he likely wore it unknowingly, while others insisted ignorance wasn’t an excuse. The incident highlighted how every fashion choice made by a global icon can quickly become politicized, whether intended or not.
Amid the backlash, NewJeans became unexpectedly entangled in the drama. Footage of Danielle and Haerin in party environments resurfaced, leading to criticism and defense from their fandom, Bunnies. The debate intensified when fans noted that these visuals were from past events like Emotional Oranges’ party and not recent misconduct.
Critics alleged HYBE was intentionally using the NewJeans footage to distract from Jungkook’s ongoing scandal. This media play theory gained traction, especially since NewJeans is already under public scrutiny due to ADOR’s legal battle with HYBE. For many fans, the situation exposed deeper issues in idol management and media handling within K-pop’s biggest agencies.
This incident shows that in the K-pop industry, even a fashion choice can spark international headlines—and how agencies handle such fallout matters just as much as the mistake itself.
“Public figures must be held accountable not just for their actions, but for the symbols they promote—knowingly or not.” — Cultural critic Kim Ji-won
