Members of emerging girl group RESCENE have become the center of attention after footage emerged showing them almost falling victim to an alleged “shoulder checking” incident, known in Japan as butsukari, during filming in Tokyo.
On June 19, a video uploaded to the YouTube channel “Hi. 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’s Scramble Crossing is one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, known for the huge crowds of pedestrians and tourists who cross at the same time every time the traffic lights change.
In the video, Woni and Minami, dressed in gyaru-inspired clothing, had just finished filming a para para dance segment as part of their local cultural experience content. After greeting the fans, the two began to cross the intersection.
At this moment, a young Japanese man suddenly changed direction and quickly moved towards Minami. The man seemed to abruptly turn his body as if trying to collide with her.
Luckily, Minami noticed the movement and quickly stepped aside, avoiding contact. Although no collision occurred, she appeared visibly surprised by the accident.
After crossing the road, the man briefly turned towards the group before quickly leaving the area.
When the footage spread online, many viewers wondered whether the man had intentionally approached the idol. Some have speculated that he may have attempted a so-called butsukari attack.
Known colloquially as “shoulder checking,” butsukari refers to the act of deliberately bumping into pedestrians or their belongings as they pass by. Women, children and other people 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 the members of RESCENE almost experienced an unpleasant accident while filming in Japan.
According to the show, the members were recording a dance segment at Shibuya Crossing when footage surfaced showing a man moving towards them in a suspicious manner. Since then, online discussions have continued over whether the act was intentional or simply an accident.
The program further commented: “Why would someone suddenly change direction while walking with his girlfriend? It seems intentional. The footage also shows him looking back at RESCENE immediately after the failed attempt. This strongly suggests deliberate behavior. The incident has also generated significant discussion among Japanese viewers.”
Sources: Nate
