BTS member RM has come under scrutiny following allegations of smoking in non-smoking areas and improperly discarding cigarette butts during a recent visit to Japan.
According to Japanese weekly magazine Shūkan Bunshun on April 22, RM was reportedly seen smoking multiple times in designated non-smoking zones while socializing with acquaintances in Tokyo’s Shibuya district.
RM, who is currently in Japan as part of BTS’s ‘Arirang’ world tour schedule, was said to have visited several izakayas in the Shibuya area that evening. At one particular venue, he reportedly stayed for around three hours, during which he was observed smoking.
The report claims that despite the absence of a designated smoking area inside the establishment, RM and his group smoked in common areas such as building corridors. It was further alleged that he discarded cigarette butts on the ground.
According to the outlet, a female staff member had to pick up the cigarette butts, and although a building security guard reportedly intervened and advised RM against smoking, he allegedly continued the behavior.
Following the report, criticism has emerged locally, with comments such as “This shows poor manners” and “Basic public rules were not followed.” As of now, neither RM nor his agency, HYBE, has released an official statement regarding the allegations.
Meanwhile, BTS successfully held their ‘Arirang’ world tour concerts at Tokyo Dome on April 17 and 18. The two shows were completely sold out, drawing a total of 110,000 attendees over both days.
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