The global success of BTS has left countless people scratching their heads when trying to explain the meteoric rise of K-POP in the mainstream US market. With their upbeat music, charming aura, sleek fashion style, and dedication to their work, it’s no surprise that millions of people are in love with this boy band. However, their success was not handed to them on a silver platter. For years, BTS struggled to get their music heard and worked hard to be an idol in South Korea.
Many years ago, not many people knew about South Korea. But with the rise of Korean groups like Girls’ Generation, EXO, Big Bang, and more, the country boomed, and their artists’ work topped the music charts worldwide. BTS set multiple records, wrote a new history in the Korean music industry, and became a household name in KPOP. Read on to learn how BTS changed the Korean pop music industry.
Get To Know BTS
BTS is a pop group of seven members formed by Big Hit Entertainment in 2013, a budding agency that has instantly evolved into one of the powerhouses of Korean entertainment. Bangtan Sonyeondan, which means “Bulletproof Boy Scouts,” was established by Bang Si-Hyuk, the company CEO, to create a group that could handle social effects and serves as the younger generation’s voice.
The rapid rise of BTS was accompanied by a significant fan base known as “Army” and global attention because of their music, which also influenced other artists in the Korean entertainment industry.
Aside from the countless awards and honours, the group has also made historical events. They have been invited to address the United Nations General Assembly, visit the White House, and talk with US President Joe Biden about reducing violence against Asian Americans.
BTS and the Korean Economy
In December 2018, the Hyundai Research Institute reported that the boy band produced an estimated 4 trillion won ($3.54 billion) in economic value to the country per year and an additional 1.42 trillion won ($1.26 billion) per year. That amount skyrocketed to 5.56 trillion won in 2019, and experts predict that the group’s 10-year economic impact will reach 56.2 trillion won.
Others may perceive this as just numbers, but this is an inspiring contribution since no Korean artist or group has achieved such a substantial economic effect in South Korea. BTS has also helped promote the local tourism industry of South Korea, where the country gained at least 796,000 tourists annually.
In addition, BTS has also helped improve South Korea’s consumer goods exports because of the group being hired as global ambassadors of the clothing and car industries.
BTS and the Korean Language
The global success of BTS is going against the cultural odds for two main reasons: First, the leading global culture is American culture. Second, the Korean language is not even in the top 10 of the world’s most spoken languages. However, BTS showcases the Korean culture and language worldwide through its music and creative ideas to battle against diversity.
BTS’s hit song “Idol,” which they performed at the Melon Music Awards 2018, got fans hooked and impressed at how the group incorporated traditional Korean sounds with the song, attracting local and international audiences. Due to this, there was an increase in demand and interest in conventional Korean sounds. The local group ‘Nation’s People Preserving the Korean Language’ has also given the award “Best Promoter of the Korean Language” of 2018 to BTS.
Conclusion
Based on research and Korea’s economic history, it’s rare for a Korean artist or group to make such a massive impact on the country’s economy, industry, and culture. With the given data, it’s not surprising the BTS is indeed South Korea’s national treasure and pride, bringing positive influence to their worldwide audience with sincerity and authenticity.
Do you have plans on travelling to South Korea to visit breathtaking Korean Drama locations, attend idol concerts, or walk on the streets hoping to bump into one of the BTS members, or perhaps you just want to explore the country? If so, it’s wise to come prepared by learning their language! If you’re planning to take Korean language courses from schools in Singapore, Sejong is here for you! We have native Korean teachers dedicated to helping you learn and understand this beautiful language. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or other inquiries.