'BTS Shrine' in Japan Draws Heavy Flak — Here's Why
A "BTS Shrine" located in Japan is drawing attention and heavy flak from fans.
Keep on reading to know why.
'BTS Shrine' in Japan Faces Heavy Flak for Copyright Infringement
Recently on February 21, a netizen took to the Korean online community forum, The Qoo, to point out one certain shrine found at Shizuoka in Japan, which is named as the "BTS Shine," but is presumably an acronym for "By The Sea."
However, according to the photos shared on the forum, the shrine is said to be attracting visitors due to the BTS promotional materials, which was displayed near the location in order to attract fans and visitors of the shrine.
Pictures of the BTS members next to the shrine
Photos of all seven members can be seen right next to the shrine, along with a purple torii (shrine gate) and the name "BTS" at the top of it inside a cave.
In particular, purple is the representative color of BTS and ARMY (BTS' fandom), and has been widely used by the fans, the BTS members themselves, and their label Big Hit Music throughout their activities and promotions.
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'BTS Shrine' purple torii
Outside of the cave, there is even a photo zone with BTS' name, along with an outdoor swing, which also boasts the group's name at the top.
Not only this, but according to the shrine's official website, vistiors will have to pay 2,000 yen (around $18 USD) to pray and visit the shrine.
'BTS Shrine' photo zone
A special praying session with a shinshoku (Shinto priest) can also be availed, but is priced at 5,000 yen (around $43 USD), and that appointments are necessary.
Fans have also pointed out that you can easily find a video of the shinshoku doing one of BTS' dance challenges on social media.
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The Shinto priest in front of the torii
Upon discovering this, the "BTS Shrine" has since received heavy flak from both fans and netizens, for not only using the members for marketing purposes without permission, but also because a Shinto shrine is a sacred place where spirits are enshrined.
'BTS Shrine' is Not Dedicated to BTS?
However, according to the netizen, the shrine is not dedicated to the superstar group, but to Guanyin, who is said to be a Bodhisattva that is associated with compassion.
They added that "BTS" was simply the name of the shrine's location.
Despite that, many are still not happy that the group's name was being used without their permission.
As of this writing, Big Hit Music has yet to release an official statement if copyright infringement was committed by the controversial shrine.
What are your thoughts on the "BTS Shrine"?
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Written by Robyn Joan
