Kim Jang-hwan, president of the Far East Broadcasting Company, spoke out against BTS during a sermon on March 20. He introduced his remarks by saying: “We live in an era where even at 90 years old you have to be careful what they say” adding, “This is a place for educational sermons, so I will say what I think.”
Regarding BTS’s decision to hold their comeback concert in Gwanghwamun, Kim stated, “I don’t understand why they would choose the Central Government Complex (Gwanghwamun) when there are many other locations available.” He continued, “If it were me, I would have kept it in an open space like Saemangeum in North Jeolla Province.”
He also disputed the extent of administrative resources used for the event, underlining: “They say 6,500 police officers will be mobilized, are they protecting six singers?”
Kim further criticized BTS’ music itself, noting: “This isn’t even child’s play.” and adding, “I can’t figure out what their lyrics are or what kind of songs they’re singing.”
After his comments were published, an immediate reaction emerged, even within his own organization. On March 24, the Far East Broadcasting Company union released an official statement condemning his remarks. They described them as “a display of contempt for popular culture that fails to recognize the immense global influence of K-pop and BTS in the music market and industry.” The union also added it “Such statements, coming from a figure with public influence, lack the necessary level of caution.”
Sources: Nate
