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BTS member Jungkook issued an apology after sparking controversy for wearing a hat emblazoned with the phrase “Make Tokyo Great Again” during a concert rehearsal. Despite the apology, the hat quickly sold out.

The incident occurred on June 13, during a rehearsal for fellow BTS member J-Hope’s concert. Jungkook was seen wearing a hat with the slogan “MAKE TOKYO GREAT AGAIN,” a phrase that mirrors former U.S. President Donald Trump’s campaign slogan and has reportedly been used by far-right circles in Japan. Critics have pointed out that the slogan can be interpreted as glorifying Japanese imperialism. It was later revealed that the hat had been a gift from a friend.

As criticism mounted, Jungkook took to a fan communication platform in the early hours of June 14, writing, “I did not fully recognize the historical and political meaning of the phrase. It was careless and thoughtless of me. I have since discarded the hat.”

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Captured from basicks.jp

The hat, made by a Japanese fashion brand, was defended by the company on social media. “We sincerely apologize to anyone who felt uncomfortable,” the brand stated, while adding, “The design is not intended as a political message, but as an expression of hope for the revival of Tokyo’s fashion scene.”

Nevertheless, the controversy appeared to fuel demand. The hat, priced at 13,200 yen (approximately 125,000 Korean won), quickly sold out.