By Mantasha Azeem

Copyright sportskeeda

On September 21, 2025, BTS’ Jin was spotted at Incheon International Airport as he departed for Milan to attend Gucci’s Spring/Summer 2026 show at Milan Fashion Week. While his stylish Gucci airport look and brief interactions with reporters caught attention, it was his arrival in Italy that stirred online debate.

Fans welcomed him with the revival of the “Purple Ribbon Project.” For those unaware, the project is an initiative first launched in 2018. The goal was to protect BTS from being mobbed in crowded spaces by creating safe barriers with purple ribbons.

The project, originally started by ARMYs, ensured Jin had space to move freely upon landing in Milan.

Netizens praised how it gave him a safer environment and pointed out how it was better than the chaotic airport situations the group had faced in South Korea. However, others criticized the move.

They called it unnecessary if fans had simply followed HYBE’s long-standing guidance not to attend private schedules such as airport departures or arrivals. An X user, @ARMY4LIFE84, wrote,

“The Purple Ribbon Project was a beautiful thing but it ended for a reason. We should not be trying to recreate it. Instead, we should be staying at home. There is absolutely no reason for you to be at the airport. What makes you think that the first thing the members want to deal with after a long a** flight is a mob of screaming fans? Have some consideration for their safety, the safety of everyone else at the airport, and your own safety. The airport is not an official event. You shouldn’t be there. STAY HOME!!”

This divide quickly spread across social media, making Jin’s Milan appearance one of the most talked-about celebrity arrivals of the week.

Several expressed frustration. They argued that the ribbons were being used to justify crowding at airports rather than respecting privacy. A section of fans said the project was outdated.

Meanwhile, others insisted it was the best way to prevent dangerous mobbing. Some even noted that the singer appeared happier and more comfortable with this arrangement.

Jin’s Gucci runway schedule, airport look details, and global brand deals

Jin’s Milan trip is part of his ongoing role as a global ambassador for Gucci. This partnership began in 2024 after he completed his military service. This is his third time attending the brand’s showcase. It follows his previous appearances at the Spring/Summer 2025 and Fall/Winter 2025/2026 shows earlier this year.

At Incheon, Jin was seen in a full Gucci ensemble that. He wore a Fine Cashmere Sweater, Technical Panama Pants, a Reversible Cotton Gabardine Jacket, and Re-Web Sneakers. He completed his look with the Horsebit 1955 Aura Crossbody Bag.

Before boarding, he briefly chatted with reporters. He even joked about staying up all night so he could sleep on the flight. The singer also mentioned his love for mulhoe, a Korean cold raw fish soup he eats several times a week.

Beyond Gucci, Jin continues to strengthen his presence in the global market. His brand endorsements span Fred Jewelry, Alo Yoga, Laneige, Ottogi Jin Ramen, Dongwon Tuna, Dolby Atmos, Gelato Pique, Visit Seoul, and Lucido-L by Mandom Corporation.

His own liquor brand, IGIN, sold out upon launch earlier this year. Moreover, his latest Japanese endorsement even drove Mandom’s stock to a 52-week-high.

The Gucci SS26 show is scheduled for September 23 at 7 pm CET (September 24, 2 am KST).