BTS' global message "Love Yourself"

Maureen Mullins 10|7|2018

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“I’m learning how to love myself,” BTS sing in their song "Answer: Love Myself" from their album "Love Yourself: Answer." Propelling the important message to love yourself across the globe.

As we know the music industry is ever changing. In recent years the genre K-pop has risen to popularity. Many K-pop groups have focused on encouraging messages, such as loving yourself. This has created a positive environment that many are joining. The words that are used in a lot of music today can be calloused and less positive. This is part of the reason BTS has a huge impact on the Billboard Music Charts. They have reached the top of the chart more than previously seen by any other South Korean act, including the likes of Psy (Gangnam Style).

BTS is a band from South Korea, consisting of seven members. The members are Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook. Whom all started as trainees at a small agency named BigHit Entertainment. From their debut in 2013, they have grown monumentally. They consistently work hard, contributing to record breaking accomplishments. Each member contributes a unique perspective that inspires people to be positive and “love yourself.”

In September, the U.N. invited BTS to give a speech in New York due to their global platform, positivity and goodwill. In the speech, Namjoon (RM), leader of BTS said, “We have learned to love ourselves, so now I urge you to speak yourself, No matter who you are, where you’re from, your skin color, gender identity: speak yourself.” The U.N speech can be found here.

BTS has partnered with UNICEF to create a campaign titled Love Myself to “lend a hand” for children and teens exposed to any sort of violence. A quote from the site says “With our love and care, this world can be turned into a better place where people can dream of tomorrow.” This website can be found here.

Many musicians including BTS use various social media outlets to spread their voice while interacting with fans and other musicians. At this time they are still relatively unrecognized in America. As of Oct. 2018, BTS has 16.6 million followers on Twitter. BTS made history on their U.S. tour, becoming the first Korean act to perform to a sold out Citi Field stadium in New York. Their performances include rapping, singing, dancing, with an animated light show. The U.S. tour just wrapped, and they are heading to Europe.

BTS’ music has many positive messages — while in Korean — there are many translations available in multiple languages. They write about their experiences in life making it easier for people to connect with, especially their fans, otherwise referred to as A.R.M.Y. an acronym for Adorable Representative MC for Youth.

Positive affirmations can inspire people to have a positive outlook on life. BTS is empowering the spread of positivity and loving yourself through their song lyrics, speeches, and overall actions.