BTS Visits the White House for AANHPI Month
The K-pop superstars met President Joe Biden to talk about Asian inclusion during Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islanders’ Month.
Beyond their catchy songs and powerful dances, South Korean pop sensation BTS are known to use their lyrics and influence as platforms to deliver important messages. This AANHPI month was no different when the seven-member team was invited to visit US President Joe Biden at the White House to discuss key issues surrounding the Asian American communities in the country.
“We want to thank you, sincerely, for your decision – such as signing the Covid-19 Hate Crimes Act”, said RM, leader of the boyband, to Biden. This earnest message feels more poignant, following the onslaught of hate crimes targeting Asians living in the US in recent years. The conversation between the music group and Biden also touched on issues surrounding diversity and Asian representation.
In the pressroom, the boy group, comprising RM, J-Hope, Jimin, V, Suga, Jungkook and Jin, co-delivered a joint statement in celebration and support of AANHPI month – starting with RM’s introduction in English. Jimin continued: “We were devastated by the recent surge in hate crimes, including Asian American hate crimes. To put a stop to this and support the cause we’d like to take this opportunity to voice ourselves once again.”
Citing the universality of music, Jungkook added: “We are still surprised that music created by South Korean artists reaches so many people around the world, transcending language and cultural barriers. We believe music is always an amazing and wonderful unifier of all things.”
“Everyone has their own history. We hope that today is one step closer to respecting and understanding each and everyone as a valuable person,” remarked V. The meaningful statement was concluded by RM, who thanked Biden for the opportunity, and for the reminder of “what [they] can do as artists” to make a difference.
