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Religious leader’s remarks on BTS concert trigger backlash
3 days ago•Rich Park
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Kim Jang-hwan, the 91-year-old Chairman of Far East Broadcasting Company (FEBC), is facing internal backlash after devaluing BTS's Gwanghwamun performance as "not even child's play." The religious leader's criticism of the group's music and the logistical resources used for the event sparked a formal condemnation from his company's labor union [1][2].
Summary
| Event | Detail |
|---|---|
| Core Conflict | FEBC Chairman Kim Jang-hwan criticized BTS’s performance logistics and musical value [1][2]. |
| Context | Remarks occurred during an educational sermon at a prayer breakfast on March 20 [1][2]. |
| Response | The FEBC Labor Union condemned the remarks as "hatred of popular culture" [1]. |
Key Facts
- Chairman Kim Jang-hwan questioned the use of Gwanghwamun, suggesting Saemangeum as an alternative to avoid restricting access to the landmark [2].
- Regarding BTS's music, Kim stated, "I don't know what their lyrics are or what they are singing" [1].
- The Chairman criticized the mobilization of 6,500 police officers to protect "6 people who sing" [2].
- Kim prefaced his remarks by stating he would "say what I want to say" because it was an "educational sermon" [2].
- On March 24, the FEBC Labor Union stated that Kim's comments lacked the prudence expected of a public figure [1].
- The union argued that Kim failed to consider the significant global influence of K-pop and BTS [1].
Key Terms
- Far East Broadcasting Company (FEBC): A broadcasting organization where Kim Jang-hwan serves as Chairman [1].
- Kim Jang-hwan: A 91-year-old pastor and FEBC Chairman who criticized BTS during a committee prayer breakfast [1][2].
- Gwanghwamun: A central South Korean landmark and venue for the BTS performance [2].
Key Quote
"It is hatred of popular culture that does not consider the enormous influence K-pop and BTS have on the global music market and industry." — Far East Broadcasting Labor Union, 스포츠경향 [1]
Next
- Ongoing internal friction between FEBC leadership and the labor union regarding the Chairman's public remarks [1].
- Potential further reactions from the public or music industry regarding the characterization of BTS's music [1].