Following the release of their funky, retro hit “Dynamite,” K-pop group BTS has proven yet again why they have been admired as the frontmen of the global music industry. Their latest all-English track has claimed the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for two weeks, a glorious feat for both the group and South Korea as they are the first from the country to achieve such a milestone.
The music video has also broken records as it garnered over 100 million views on YouTube within the first 24 hours of its release.
During a remote interview, RM has shared that the lyrics, while seemingly simple, celebrates “the little things that make life truly valuable and special.” The group goes on to say that they wanted to spread more positivity and optimism during such unprecedented times.
Merely a week after their explosive comeback, BTS has continued to storm their way into the US music industry with their first full-length performance at the MTV Video Music Awards, taking home two awards and being the first Asian act to win the “Best Pop” category.
The members of BTS have also gone beyond their promotions for “Dynamite” to emit more light onto the world by delivering a message of perseverance in their virtual speech for the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly. They shared their personal struggles with the world, hoping to connect with their fans who have also experienced difficulty and loneliness. Member Jimin shared, “I could only look outside my window, I could only go to my room. Yesterday, I was singing and dancing with fans around the world, and now my world had shrunk to a room. And then, my friends took my hand. We comforted each other and talked about what we could do together.” The group collectively ends their ment with an encouraging message of “Life moves on. Let’s live on.”
Previously, the members of BTS have partnered with UNICEF in hopes of putting a halt on bullying with their #ENDviolence campaign. With all of their recent achievements, BTS as a group has provided a much-needed feeling of comfort through their music and consistent message of positivity. President Moon Jae In himself has commended the members by inviting them to speak in South Korea’s first National Youth Day on September 19th. They were named national leaders of youth for having a positive influence on the younger generations and encouraging listeners to change the world for the better.
To kick off the beginning of October, BTS has featured on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon to showcase five daily performances, two of them being set in Seoul’s very own Gyeongbuk Palace. Fans speculate that the location and styling was chosen to pay homage to South Korea’s Chuseok traditions.
The K-pop sensation has recently announced the name and release date of their much-awaited album. Be is set to release on November 20th, a month after the completion of their virtual concert Map of the Soul O:NE.
Julie Kim
Asia Journal
(Los Angeles Times Advertising Supplement)
