Why Did Police Halt the BTS Jin Kiss Investigation?

The police investigation into a Japanese woman in her 50s who sparked controversy by attempting to kiss BTS member Jin during a fan event last year has been officially suspended.

On March 31, Seoul’s Songpa Police Station announced that they had requested the woman—identified as Ms. A—to appear for questioning under the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Sexual Crimes, specifically for molestation in a public place. However, with delays in securing her cooperation, the investigation has been put on hold for now.

Police regulations allow for a case to be suspended when a suspect is overseas for more than two months, their whereabouts are unclear, or their physical condition prevents cooperation. Authorities stated the investigation would resume once those conditions change.

The incident occurred on June 13, 2023, during a fan event held at Jamsil Indoor Stadium in Seoul to celebrate Jin’s return from military service. As Jin greeted fans, Ms. A was seen leaning in and kissing him on the cheek—an act that appeared uninvited and was caught on video. The clip spread rapidly online, igniting outrage among fans.

Soon after, a user filed a report via the Korean National Petition Service, prompting police to open a case. After months of investigation and international cooperation with Interpol Japan, authorities confirmed Ms. A’s identity.

Ms. A was officially asked to appear for questioning on February 27, but she failed to respond.

A related BBC report noted that Jin remained composed and professional during the incident and continued engaging with fans despite the shock. The article also highlighted growing concerns over the safety of celebrities during public events—especially in intimate settings like fan meetings. Fans and social commentators emphasized the need for stricter boundaries and event protocols to ensure idols' personal space is respected.

The case has drawn widespread attention, not just because of Jin's global fame, but because it raised larger conversations around consent, fan behavior, and the need for protection at celebrity meet-and-greets.

Police confirmed that if Ms. A responds or returns to Korea, the investigation will immediately resume.