Are BTS' Jungkook's dancers problematic? Jake Kodish, Brian Puspos linked to controversial content sparking issues among ARMY

BTS' Jeon Jungkook is thriving in Chapter 2 of the group's musical journey. Despite misconceptions about potential group disbandment, members RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook have reassured fans of their reunion in 2025. 

In the interim, each member is pursuing solo ventures, with Jin releasing a solo song and the others unveiling solo albums. Jungkook, currently promoting his solo album "GOLDEN," has been accompanied by a dedicated set of backup dancers, including Jake Kodish and Brian Puspos. 

ALSO READ | V's 'Layover' to Jungkook's 'GOLDEN': A look at all BTS members' solo projects (so far)

However, due to their association with contentious online content, the duo is now embroiled in controversy with the ARMY.

Jake Kodish stirred up a conflict when he expressed support for Israel on his Instagram during the escalating humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip in early October 2023. This ignited a clash with ARMY members who found his posts insensitive and accused him of spreading hate speech. 

In response to the criticism, Kodish engaged with fans, but his reactions were not perceived as responsible. Following substantial backlash from the BTS ARMY, Jake Kodish reportedly deactivated his X account.

Brian Puspos also found himself under scrutiny from the ARMY after commenting on Jake's Instagram post. The use of the "watermelon emoji," (a watermelon when sliced shows the colours of the Palestinian flag — red, green, black, and white), further upset ARMY members. 

Puspos added fuel to the fire when he liked a Jungkook solo fan's post suggesting the disbandment of the group and Jungkook pursuing a solo career.

This is not the first time Brian has faced the ire of the ARMY; previously, he criticized BTS' song "Black Swan" and discredited leader and main lyricist Kim Namjoon. 

As the controversy unfolded on social media, particularly X (formerly known as Twitter), fans voiced their concerns about individuals with such views working with BTS, who are known for their positive impact.

About Jungkook's "GOLDEN":

Dropped on November 3, 2023, through Big Hit Music, Jungkook's inaugural studio album has garnered widespread adoration. Composed entirely in English, the album teased its potential influence on the pop music landscape by releasing several tracks beforehand.

In quick response, ARMY flooded social media platforms with expressions of love for the songs, particularly as "SEVEN" and "3D" accomplished noteworthy milestones.