"Symbolizing Hope for the Development of Tokyo's Fashion Industry," Brand Clarifies
Jungkook Disposed of the Hat, Yet It Sold Out in a Surprising Phenomenon
The Japanese brand that produced the hat worn by Jungkook of BTS, which became the center of controversy, has released an official statement clarifying that there was no political intent behind the design.
The product in question is a hat made by the Japanese fashion brand BASICKS. It attracted attention after Jungkook was seen wearing it during J-Hope's concert rehearsal in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, on the 13th. The hat features the phrase "MAKE TOKYO GREAT AGAIN," a variation of former U.S. President Donald Trump's campaign slogan, which sparked controversy.
Jungkook of the group BTS, who completed his active duty in the army and was honorably discharged, is giving a salute to the press at Yeoncheon Public Stadium in Yeoncheon County, Gyeonggi Province on the 11th. Photo by Yonhap News
Some internet users argued that this phrase is similar to expressions used by far-right groups in Japan and criticized it as inappropriate.
In response, BASICKS issued an apology on its official Instagram account on the 14th, stating, "We are sorry for causing discomfort," and emphasized, "There was absolutely no intention to convey a political message with this design." The brand added, "We respect the freedom to express creative messages through fashion," and claimed, "This phrase is a symbolic expression wishing for the development of Tokyo's fashion industry."
Meanwhile, Jungkook issued an official apology on the fan community platform Weverse shortly after the controversy arose. He stated, "I wore the hat without being aware of the historical and political implications of the phrase," and admitted, "This was entirely my mistake with no excuse." Jungkook added, "I immediately disposed of the hat," and pledged to act with greater caution in the future.
Regardless of the controversy, the hat worn by Jungkook quickly sold out as it became a hot topic. The product, which was sold for 13,200 yen (approximately 125,000 won) on BASICKS' official online store, is now out of stock in both black and red versions. The brand announced the sold-out status through its official social media channels.
Separately, on the 11th, Jimin and Jungkook completed their active duty service in the army. The live broadcast commemorating Jungkook and Jimin's discharge, held on the day of their discharge, recorded 157 million hearts over one hour and ten minutes, demonstrating their unwavering popularity.
Industry insiders expect that BTS's full-group activities could resume as early as the second half of this year, or by the first half of next year at the latest. Currently, J-Hope still has domestic concert dates remaining, and Jin is scheduled to continue with global fan concerts starting next month.
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