"Are You From the North?" Joke at BTS Taping Sparks Backlash; U.S. Comedian Apologizes

Seth Herzog, a comedian on NBC’s "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon", sparked controversy with a remark made during a BTS taping.

The incident occurred at the March 25 (local time) recording. While handling the pre-show, Herzog asked, “Is anyone here from the North? No?” Some audience members said the joke sounded racist and called it offensive.

The line was reportedly an improvised bit meant to ask about where the audience was from. But criticism grew as it was perceived by some as an anti-Asian jab aimed at BTS. The clip spread on social media, amplifying the backlash.

According to TMZ, as the controversy escalated, Herzog apologized to BTS. Network staff also acknowledged the issue internally and discussed it with him.

Some online commenters pointed to Herzog’s past social media posts they viewed as belittling Asians and demanded a more accountable apology.

Meanwhile, BTS’s Tonight Show segment is set to include an interview and a performance.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)