He wore both a hat and tee associated with White supremacy.

PSYCHIC FEVER from EXILE TRIBE‘s Ryushin has finally apologized for his recent controversial attire choices.

LDH Records‘ 7-member J-Pop boy group formed in 2019 after members previously met as elite students at EXPG STUDIO (an LDH-run dance academy). The group currently includes Tsurugi, Nakanishi Ryoga, Watanabe Ren, JIMMY, Kohatsu Kokoro, Handa Ryushin, and WEESA.

While PSYCHIC FEVER from EXILE TRIBE made their official debut on July 13, 2022, with the studio album P.C.F., the group went viral with “To the Top” (featuring DVI) last year, then again a few months ago with “Just Like Dat feat. JP THE WAVY,” capturing the attention of K-Pop fans.The group has gained many international fans due to its members’ talent and diversity. Jimmy is Nigerian Japanese, and WEESA is Moroccan Korean. So, when one of their fellow members wore what many feel was racist attire, fans were left disappointed.

Recently, Ryushin has been spotted wearing problematic attire on two separate occasions. Once, he wore what appeared to be a “Make America Great Again” cap, which is part of U.S. President Donald Trump’s political campaign. Another day, Ryushin wore a T-shirt that contained the Confederate flag. Both of these items are associated with racism, especially White supremacy, throughout the United States.

For several days, ForEVERs (PSYCHIC FEVER from EXILE TRIBE fans) have been expressing their disappointment via social media. Many were flabbergasted, wondering where this Japanese member even obtained such attire.

ForEVERs have been sharing posts in English and Japanese, informing of how problematic Ryushin’s attire choices were while demanding that he holds himself accountable. The fandom urged him and LDH to “understand the repercussions of aligning oneself with such hateful political symbolism and to take prompt and meaningful action.” 

On July 3, LDH and Ryushin finally addressed fans’ concerns, releasing statements in multiple languages on social media regarding the matter. The company apologized, claiming there was “no intention to support any particular political group or organization,” and has since deleted posts containing the problematic attire.

Additionally, a message from Ryushin himself was included. He apologized for offending and disappointing fans with his attire and expressed his shame at his ignorance.

Fans were relieved that he and the company finally apologized. Many are forgiving, believing the apologies to be sincere.

Still, many can’t help but feel disturbed by the entire situation.

How do you feel about the controversy and apology?