BTS RM Faces Smoking Allegation in Tokyo

According to a report published on April 22 by Japanese weekly magazine Shukan Bunshun, RM was spotted moving between bars and izakayas in Tokyo’s Shibuya district with acquaintances. During the outing, he was allegedly seen smoking multiple times in areas clearly marked as non-smoking zones.

Allegations emerge from Tokyo nightlife outing

The report claims that RM stayed at one establishment in Shibuya for approximately three hours before leaving around 1 a.m. While the building reportedly did not provide a designated indoor smoking area, RM and his group were said to have continued smoking in hallways where no-smoking signs were visibly posted.

A security guard managing the building allegedly approached RM directly to warn him about the violation. However, the report suggests that the smoking behavior continued despite the warning, raising concerns about compliance with local regulations.

Further criticism arose over the alleged handling of cigarette waste. The magazine reported that cigarette butts were discarded on the floor after smoking. A staff member at the venue was reportedly seen kneeling to clean up the discarded remains, an incident that was captured in photographs released alongside the article.

The publication included images showing RM smoking with acquaintances, as well as the aftermath involving staff cleaning the area, intensifying public attention and criticism.

Strict smoking rules heighten sensitivity in Japan

Japan enforces strict regulations on smoking in public spaces, particularly in busy districts like Shibuya. Smoking outside designated areas and littering cigarette butts are considered violations that can draw fines or social backlash. As a result, such allegations involving a high-profile figure like RM have quickly drawn attention both locally and internationally.

At the time of writing, neither HYBE nor RM has issued an official statement addressing the claims. The absence of a response has left room for speculation as fans and observers await clarification.

Ongoing world tour continues amid controversy

The incident comes as BTS is actively engaged in its large-scale global tour. The group kicked off its “BTS Arirang World Tour” on April 9 at Goyang Stadium in South Korea, marking the beginning of an extensive series of performances across 34 cities.

Their recent Tokyo Dome concerts on April 17 and 18 reportedly drew a combined audience of 110,000 fans over two days, underscoring the group’s continued global influence. Following the Japan leg, BTS is scheduled to continue its North American tour, with upcoming shows set to take place at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa.

While the group’s tour momentum remains strong, the controversy surrounding RM introduces an unexpected challenge during a critical period of international promotions. Industry watchers note that how the situation is addressed—if at all—could influence public perception, particularly in markets with strict social norms like Japan.

As the story develops, attention remains focused on whether an official response will be issued and how it may impact BTS’s ongoing activities.