BTS member Jungkook recently faced heavy criticism for wearing a cap with the phrase “Make Tokyo Great Again” during rehearsals for J-Hope’s concert. The phrase reminded many of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s slogan “Make America Great Again” (MAGA), which has been linked to far-right politics. The controversy quickly spread online, leading Jungkook to issue a public apology.
The backlash didn’t stop with Jungkook. Fans soon dug up past photos of BTS leader RM and aespa’s Giselle wearing similar caps with variations of the MAGA slogan. This sparked debates among fans about whether these fashion choices carried political meanings or were just innocent style statements.
Jungkook’s Apology and Immediate Fallout
Jungkook wore the controversial cap during soundcheck for J-Hope’s “Hope on the Stage Final” concert on June 13, 2025. The phrase “Make Tokyo Great Again” is seen by many in South Korea as a reference to Japan’s imperial past, a sensitive topic due to Japan’s colonial rule over Korea from 1910 to 1945. Social media erupted with criticism, accusing Jungkook of being insensitive.
Within hours, Jungkook posted an apology on Weverse, saying:
“I sincerely apologize for the disappointment and discomfort caused by the phrase written on the hat I wore during today’s rehearsal. I take responsibility for my lack of awareness in wearing it without fully recognizing the historical and political implications. I am truly sorry.”
He confirmed that he had discarded the hat immediately. Despite his apology, the controversy grew, with some fans defending him while others remained upset.
RM and Giselle Dragged Into the Controversy
As the debate raged on, fans uncovered old photos of RM wearing a cap with the phrase “Make Comedy Great Again” in 2023. Some critics mocked him online, calling him “the most educated K-pop idol” sarcastically, referencing his reputation for being intellectual.
Similarly, a past video of aespa’s Giselle wearing the same cap as RM resurfaced, leading to hashtags like #MAGASELLE and #MAGAESPA trending. Giselle faced extra backlash because her groupmate Karina had recently been criticized for wearing a jacket with alleged right-wing symbolism.
Fan Reactions: Defense vs. Criticism
Many fans argued that RM and Giselle’s caps were not politically charged, as they used the word “comedy” instead of a country’s name. Some accused Jungkook’s fans of trying to shift blame by bringing up other idols.
One fan wrote:
“It’s pretty obvious that RM’s and Giselle’s caps are different from Jungkook’s. His had a country’s name, which makes it political. Theirs was just a joke.”
Others disagreed, saying any use of the MAGA-style slogan is problematic due to its far-right associations. The debate led to heated fan wars between BTS solo stans and aespa supporters.
Brand Response and Wider Impact
The Japanese brand BASICKS, which made Jungkook’s cap, initially celebrated the sudden surge in sales after he wore it. However, they later apologized, stating:
“We sincerely apologize to anyone who felt uncomfortable. Our design was not meant to be political but to express hope for Tokyo’s fashion scene.”
Meanwhile, HYBE, BTS’s agency, faced criticism for allegedly trying to distract fans by bringing up unrelated scandals involving other artists under their label.
Why This Controversy Matters
The issue highlights how K-pop idols’ fashion choices can quickly become political, especially given South Korea’s complex history with Japan. It also shows how social media amplifies controversies, with past actions resurfacing to fuel new debates.
As of now, Jungkook has moved forward with his schedule, including a recent trip to the U.S., sparking rumors of a solo music release. Meanwhile, RM and Giselle have not publicly addressed the resurfaced photos.
Credits: BTS’ Instagram, aespa’s Instagram
