Fans of BTS — known as the BTS ARMY — are calling out those flocking to the hotel that the South Korean supergroup is staying at in New York.
The SDG Moment: BTS, who have been designated South Korea’s “special presidential envoy for future generations and culture,” is in New York to attend the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Moment 2021 at the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) from Sept. 19-23, NextShark previously reported.
- The seven-member boy band arrived in New York on Sunday, along with South Korean President Moon Jae-in.
- At the UNGA on Monday, BTS gave their remarks after an introduction from President Moon Jae-in. The group also prepared a special performance for the audience as part of the GA’s opening segment.
- Ahead of the UNGA, BTS’ official Twitter account asked fans to share their experiences from the past two years. The group said in a tweet, “What’s your world like today? Express the precious things that make up your world or show who you are now with an image, an emoji or a word. At the UN, your stories will begin.”
- Prior to BTS’ arrival in New York, Big Hit, the band’s management agency, reportedly released a statement asking fans to avoid flocking to the airport.
“Protect BTS”: On Sunday, “#ProtectBTS” became a trending topic on Twitter as some members of the BTS ARMY spoke out against other fans who they felt did not respect the group’s privacy.
- The reaction came after an image showing BTS’ alleged hotel location, room numbers and flight information, reportedly emerged online.
- One clip showed a man apparently running toward the group before he was stopped by security.
- Others uploaded images on social media, showing BTS’ arrival at the airport and crowds of people lining up to welcome the group in person.
- The posts are filled with comments from loyal fans who feel that some other fans are crossing the line and putting their idols in danger.
- Some berated their fellow fans for tracking their schedule and monitoring their airport arrivals.
- Others defended the fans showing up in droves because as “long as they are respectful” and “stay in the line,” then it isn’t an issue.
- Meanwhile, many fans just wished that the band members would stay safe and well during their stay in New York.
BTS first attended a UN session in 2018, where they delivered a speech as part of a UNICEF campaign to promote youth education, training and employment. They also attended the 75th UN General Assembly virtually last year to discuss the struggles faced by future generations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Featured Image via United Nations
