Kim Jang-hwan, chairman of Far East Broadcasting Company, has drawn significant controversy after publicly criticizing BTS during a sermon on March 20. Speaking candidly, Kim questioned the K-pop group’s decisions and musical style, prompting immediate backlash both from the public and within his own organization.
Kim expressed bewilderment over BTS’ choice to hold their comeback concert at Gwanghwamun, the Central Government Complex, suggesting that a more expansive venue like Saemangeum in North Jeolla Province would have been preferable. He also questioned the extensive police presence for the event, which involved 6,500 officers, asking rhetorically if such security was necessary for “six singers.” Beyond logistics, Kim criticized BTS’ music itself, remarking, “This is not even child’s play,” and admitting he did not understand their lyrics or songs.
The remarks quickly drew a response from the Far East Broadcasting Company labor union. On March 24, the union released a statement condemning Kim’s comments, describing them as “a display of disdain for popular culture that fails to recognize the immense global influence of K-pop and BTS across the music market and industry.” They also criticized Kim’s lack of caution, emphasizing that statements from someone with public influence carry significant weight.
This incident highlights the generational and cultural divide surrounding K-pop’s rise, as traditional media figures confront the global impact of groups like BTS. While Kim framed his comments as a personal opinion, the union’s response underscores the broader responsibility of public figures to acknowledge cultural influence and exercise measured commentary.
