Fans of BTS have called for accountability after a controversial moment unfolded during a recent taping of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.
Ahead of the group’s highly anticipated appearance on the late night programme, warm-up comedian Seth Herzog allegedly made a joke referencing North Korea — a remark that did not sit well with fans in attendance.
@Thezog made a seriously unfunny joke insinuating that one of the members was North Korean. Please address this before the show goes live tonight. Fans cannot enjoy the appearance on tonight’s show knowing that someone who thinks this is okay is interacting with the group.
— genesis ⁷★ IS SEEING BTS (@jehnuhsuhs) March 25, 2026
According to reports, Herzog asked the audience, “Anybody here from the North? No? Nobody?” — a variation of a typical crowd-work bit. However, fans felt the comment was insensitive, particularly given its implication toward one of the group’s members.
Clips and accounts from the taping quickly spread across social media, with ARMY urging the show’s team to address the situation before the episode aired. Many described the moment as “hurtful” and “discriminatory,” calling for an apology and better awareness moving forward.
.@bts_bighit is here to talk their new album #ARIRANG, their upcoming World Tour & to surprise members of #ARMY tonight! 🫰 #BTSonFallon #FallonTonight pic.twitter.com/t3RC7ZRMHJ
— The Tonight Show (@FallonTonight) March 26, 2026
Following the backlash, reports state that Herzog apologised directly to the group.
The incident comes as BTS gear up for a major return to the spotlight, marking their latest album ARIRANG and first group promotions after nearly four years focused on solo work and military service. Their comeback has already drawn global attention, including a large-scale concert broadcast from Seoul earlier this month.
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