BTS’ RM became the center of attention for all the wrong reasons in the last couple of days after being accused of being Islamophobic. The South Korean rapper shared an Instagram story with ‘Bad Religion’ by Frank Ocean, which was harshly criticized because he was mocking the Muslim community. However, he decided to break his silence and addressed the situation.
The idol didn’t hesitate to address the increasing controversy on social media since August 16 because of his Instagram story. Two weeks later, RM shared a nice moment with his fans during a livestream but also addressed the numerous comments that stated he was Islamophobic over the past few weeks and even comments from the livestream.
“I don’t know what you are talking about, but I never have the intention of disparaging any religion. I respect all beliefs and religions. I saw people saying this and that about me on Instagram, but I didn’t have any intention or purpose of doing that. It’s just a song, okay? I’m already 30, and I’m not going to apologize. Just believe my words. Don’t make rumors or speculations. Please trust me.”
This statement received mixed opinions because many of his fans, better known as the ARMY, strongly believed he should apologize to the Muslim community because of this reckless behavior. On the other hand, many of the ARMY supported him and expressed relief because he addressed this uncomfortable situation.
This is why I feel so sorry for those who are idolized in the public eye. They get scrutinized over the littlest of things. They are human as well, they make mistakes like we do. I feel that RM did well by handling the situation at hand. He has opinions in this life like any other person. So why couldn't he express that? If I were to say something like this, I would be told "Cool, that's how you feel, your own opinion." Whem he or any other celebrity says this, they get criticized and shamed. I feel that is not right. Hate me if you will, but I don't care. Why? Because there are things in this world that need to be said and people just need to take it like a grain of salt. I said what I said.