Pakistan’s BTS army (fans of the group) installed the billboard to celebrate the 24th birthday of band member Jungkook. However, hours later, the billboard was vandalized and removed by Farhan Adeel Butt, who called it “fahaash” (vulgar).
In a video shared on social media, Butt calls Jungkook a “hamjins pasand group ka sarbarah” (leader of a queer group). He said the billboard was taken down after receiving complaints from the neighborhood.
Butt is known for opposing various cultural and social activities; previously he opposed a women’s marathon in Gujranwala.
The Korean boy band enjoys a huge fan base in Pakistan. Social media is filled with tributes to each member of the K-pop group.
BTS, also known as the Bangtan Boys, often trends on the micro-blogging site Twitter in Pakistan. However, taking cue from Indian fans of the K-pop band this year, Pakistanis went a step further to wish Jungkook on his birthday.
BTS is a seven-member band formed in 2010 and debuted in 2013. Originally a hip hop group, their musical style has evolved to include a wide range of genres. Their lyrics, often focused on personal and social commentary, touch on the themes of mental health, troubles of school-age youth and coming of age, loss, the journey towards loving oneself.