BTS RM Faces Smoking Allegations in Japan’s No-Smoking Zones Amid Fan Debate and Media Backlash

The global phenomenon BTS held their World Tour ARIRANG in Japan, with major concerts at the Tokyo Dome on April 17-18, 2026. These shows marked their return to Japan after 7 years, drawing 110,000 fans to support their latest album, ARIRANG. The tour featured a 360-degree stage, giving ARMY delightful views from every seat. Following the Japan tour, BTS leader RM, aka Kim Namjoon, got into a controversy as a report stated that he was repeatedly seen smoking in public areas where smoking was not allowed while pub crawling through Shibuya, Japan. On April 22, Japanese news outlet Shukan Bunshun reported that RM was repeatedly seen smoking in public areas in Shibuya where smoking was prohibited. As per the outlet, a witness stated that RM remained at the venue for approximately three hours and departed around 1 a.m. RM and his companions were allegedly smoking in the hallway which was not designated smoking area. At one point, a security guard is said to have approached the group to issue a warning. The outlet published photos alongside detailed descriptions of the situation. It also cited witnesses saying a building security guard warned RM at one point, while another female staff member later cleaned up the cigarette butts. In Japan, smoking regulations are strictly enforced, with many public streets designated as non-smoking zones and limited, clearly marked smoking areas available. Violating these rules is often viewed as a public nuisance, making the issue particularly sensitive. Following the report, reactions have been divided across social media. Some fans defended the singer, saying the incident falls within his private life, while others expressed disappointment, pointing to the importance of respecting local regulations. RM’s agency, BigHit Music, has not issued an official statement regarding the allegations. Meanwhile, neither HYBE nor RM has issued an official statement regarding these claims. The allegations have not been independently verified.