Global Sensational Artists BTS visited the White House at the invitation of U.S. President Joe Biden to discuss anti-Asian hate crimes.
BTS visited the press room before meeting with President Biden on May 31st, and each member took turns to express their views on anti-Asian hate crimes.
Jimin said, "we were devastated by the recent surge of hate crimes including Asian American hate crimes, to put a stop to this and support this cause we would like to take this opportunity to voice ourselves."
Taehyung added, "Everyone has their own history. We hope today is one step forward to respecting and understanding each and everyone as a valuable person."
"It is not wrong to be different. Equality begins when we open up and start embracing all of our differences, not right or wrong," Suga emphasized.
BTS leader RM expressed his gratitude saying, "I am grateful to President Biden and the White House for giving us a chance to talk about important issues together and think about what we can do as artists."
Donned in black suits and ties, they entered the press room under the guidance of White House Spokesperson Karin Jean-Pierre and presented their sides before exiting immediately with only a greeting.
When BTS leader RM was asked at LA Press Conference in November last year, " BTS speaking on the Asian hate issue in the United States is making a positive impact," he said, "If I can voice out, I'll always want to speak, and I think it's good to do what I can ."
It was great to meet with you, @bts_bighit. Thanks for all you’re doing to raise awareness around the rise in anti-Asian hate crimes and discrimination.
— President Biden (@POTUS) June 1, 2022
I look forward to sharing more of our conversation soon. pic.twitter.com/LnczTpT2aL
"It's not wrong to be different. The equality begins when we open up and embrace all of our differences."
— Good Morning America (@GMA) May 31, 2022
Global K-pop sensation @BTS_twt spoke at the White House press briefing before meeting with President Joe Biden to celebrate #AANHPIHeritageMonth. 💜 https://t.co/aiGz01t2Ah pic.twitter.com/T6gtKaPgRZ
By Reporter Park Hyo Sil
Translated by Ritu kohli