Japanese magazine Shukan Bunshun reported on April 22 that BTS leader RM allegedly smoked in a non-smoking area in Tokyo's Shibuya and discarded a cigarette butt.
The report, based on paparazzi photos, covered RM's activities during his stay in Japan for BTS's Tokyo Dome concerts on April 17-18.
Fans and critics have slammed the outlet for invasion of privacy and attempting to tarnish RM's reputation with unverified claims.
The backlash highlights ongoing tensions over celebrity privacy, especially for global stars like BTS.
According to OSEN via Chosun, the report is seen as excessive scrutiny of RM's personal conduct while abroad.