BTS's RM Faces Controversy Over Smoking Incident in Japan

BTS Member RM in Hot Water Over Smoking Allegations

RM, a member of the globally renowned group BTS, has found himself at the center of a controversy regarding alleged smoking in a public area in Japan. This incident has not only affected him but has also drawn attention to his agency, HYBE. Currently in the United States with fellow members Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook, RM's troubles began shortly after the Tokyo segment of BTS's ARIRANG World Tour concluded. The group is set to perform in Tampa starting April 25, but RM's situation has overshadowed the excitement surrounding their tour. As of now, neither RM nor HYBE has issued an official statement regarding the matter.

On April 23, a report from iMBC indicated that while BIGHIT Music, a subsidiary of HYBE, did not apologize for RM's actions, it requested that media outlets refrain from publishing articles featuring images from Shukan Bunshun.

Details of the Smoking Incident

According to Shukan Bunshun, a Japanese news source, RM was reportedly seen smoking in non-smoking zones and littering in Shibuya during his recent visit. Witnesses claimed that he spent around three hours at the location until 1 AM, where he was allegedly smoking with friends in a hallway that was not designated for smoking. Despite a security guard's warning, the group reportedly ignored the request to stop. Although these claims have not been independently verified, they have sparked significant public backlash.

BIGHIT's Response to the Situation

The iMBC report highlighted that BIGHIT's response to the controversy has been less than satisfactory. Initially, the statement provided to iMBC did not include an apology but rather took a vague position, stating, 'We are currently addressing the matter.' They requested that media organizations avoid publishing articles based on the photos taken by paparazzi. This stance has been communicated to all media outlets that have reached out for comments.

RM's Contributions to ARIRANG

In the meantime, RM played a significant role in the creative and production aspects of BTS's fifth studio album, ARIRANG, which was released on March 20, 2026. This album marked the band's return after a nearly four-year hiatus and has since achieved remarkable success, topping global music charts. On April 23, RM was seen at Incheon airport alongside the other BTS members as they departed for the US.