BTS member Jungkook found himself at the center of a political controversy this week after being photographed wearing a Japanese cap featuring the phrase “MAKE TOKYO GREAT AGAIN”—a play on Donald Trump’s famous campaign slogan.
The hat, made by Japanese fashion label Basicks, became the focus of heated online debate after fans spotted the singer wearing it during rehearsals for fellow BTS member J-Hope’s concert on June 13th in Goyang, South Korea. Some netizens quickly noted that the altered slogan closely resembles rhetoric used by far-right groups in Japan, prompting accusations of insensitivity and political undertones.
In response, Basicks addressed the controversy through their official Instagram account on the 14th, stating: “We sincerely apologize to anyone who felt uncomfortable. That said, we believe in the freedom to express ideas through fashion. This design was not intended to convert any political stance; rather, it was an iconic way to express our hopes for a thriving Tokyo fashion scene.”
Meanwhile, Jungkook issued an official apology through the fan community platform Weverse shortly after the controversy erupted. He explained, “I wore it without realizing the historical and political implications of the phrase,” calling it “my inexcusable mistake.” He added that the hat has since been discarded and promised to be more mindful in the future.
Despite the controversy, the particular hat, priced at 13,200 yen (approximately $91)—quickly sold out in both black and red versions on Basicks’ official online store.
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