3 times K-pop band BTS didn’t care about playing it safe

Aug 14 , 2019

K-pop band BTS has stayed true to its causes and beliefs despite the Korean music industry’s reputation for obsessively micromanaging its stars in an attempt avoid potential controversies. Photo: @bts.bighitofficial from Instagram

The famous seven-member pop band obviously doesn’t think twice about courting controversy, whether commenting on political issues via strongly-worded lyrics or espousing the cause of Korea’s comfort women in the products they purchase

Chart-topping, record-breaking K-pop boy band BTS have the eyes of the world – and immense pressure – on them. Despite the Korean music industry’s reputation for obsessively micromanaging its stars to avoid potential controversies, the seven-member band has sometimes pushed the envelope.

1. Supporting former comfort women

Tensions between Japan and South Korea are high, with the most recent controversy caused by Japan’s move to limit certain exports to South Korea.

During World War II, women in territories that were occupied by Japan, including South Korea, were forced into sexual slavery by the Imperial Japanese Army, and many South Koreans today feel that Japan has not done enough in terms of an apology or compensation.

In 2015, BTS member V (real name Kim Tae-hyung) tweeted out a picture of himself wearing a Marymond jumper emblazoned with the words “I Marymond You”.

Marymond is a South Korean brand dedicated to supporting the cause of former Korean comfort women, with products designed to represent their stories, and a portion of the profits go to the women.

V also tweeted a picture of himself and band leader RM (real name Kim Nam-joon) with a floral Marymond phone case on display. And their fellow member Jin (real name Kim Seok-jin) was spotted wearing a white Marymond shirt during one of the group’s VLive broadcasts.

Some Japanese expressed outrage, but BTS’ formidable Japanese ARMY fan base remained supportive throughout.