Members of rising girl group RESCENE have become the center of attention after footage surfaced showing them nearly becoming victims of an alleged “shoulder-check” incident, known in Japan as butsukari, while filming in Tokyo.
On June 19, a video uploaded to the YouTube channel “Hello. This is Woni. Nice to Meet You” captured RESCENE members Woni and Minami visiting Tokyo’s famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing as part of a content shoot.
Shibuya Scramble Crossing is one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, known for the massive crowds of pedestrians and tourists who cross simultaneously whenever the traffic light changes.
In the video, Woni and Minami, dressed in gyaru-inspired fashion, had just finished filming a para para dance segment as part of their local culture experience content. After greeting fans, the two began crossing the intersection.
At that moment, a young Japanese man suddenly changed direction and moved rapidly toward Minami. The man appeared to twist his body abruptly as if attempting to collide with her.
Fortunately, Minami noticed the movement and quickly stepped aside, avoiding contact. Although no collision occurred, she appeared visibly startled by the incident.
After crossing the street, the man briefly looked back toward the group before quickly leaving the area.
As the footage spread online, many viewers questioned whether the man had intentionally approached the idol. Some speculated that he may have been attempting a so-called butsukari attack.
Known colloquially as a “shoulder-check,” butsukari refers to the act of deliberately bumping into pedestrians or their belongings while passing by. Women, children, and others perceived as physically weaker are often reported as common targets.
The incident gained even more attention when JTBC’s current affairs program Scandal Supervisor discussed the controversy during its June 22 broadcast.
The program reported that RESCENE members had nearly experienced an unpleasant incident while filming in Japan.
According to the show, the members were recording a dance segment at Shibuya Crossing when footage emerged showing a man moving toward them in a suspicious manner. Since then, online discussions have continued over whether the act was intentional or merely an accident.
The program further commented, “Why would someone suddenly change direction while walking with his girlfriend? It appears intentional. The footage also shows him looking back at RESCENE immediately after the failed attempt. That strongly suggests deliberate behavior. The incident has generated significant discussion among Japanese viewers as well.”
Sources: Nate
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