BTS, the global sensation comprising seven members—Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—has taken the world by storm with their music and influence. In 2022, the Grammy-nominated group announced that each member would fulfil their mandatory military service, a duty required of all South Korean males. Despite the hiatus, the group expressed hope for a reunion in 2025.
Beyond their commitment to service, BTS has consistently demonstrated generosity and a strong sense of giving back. From donations to various charitable causes to acts of kindness, the group has made a significant impact both within and beyond the entertainment industry.
Offering Words of Encouragement During the Pandemic
BTS addressed the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly, offering messages of hope and encouragement to young people navigating the challenges of the pandemic. Each member shared their personal struggles with loneliness and despair, expressing how these experiences were transformed into their music.
Jin reflected on this journey, stating, “I found the music I love, and I found myself.” He emphasised that while focusing on the future and putting in effort are crucial, the most important thing is to cherish and support oneself, ensuring personal happiness amidst difficult times.
Supporting Child Violence Survivors in East Africa
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Jung Ho-seok, also known as J-Hope of BTS, made a generous donation of over $89,000 to ChildFund Korea. His contribution supports the establishment of a new One Stop Center in Tanzania, East Africa, aimed at helping child survivors of violence.
The One Stop Center provides crucial services, including treatment, legal aid, and counselling for children who have endured violence in Tanzania. J-Hope’s donation highlights his ongoing commitment to charitable causes and making a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable children.
Contributing $1 Million to Black Lives Matter
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BTS, along with their management company Big Hit Entertainment, showed their support for the Black Lives Matter movement by donating $1 million to the organisation. This generous contribution was made to stand in solidarity with those fighting against racial injustice.
Kailee Scales, managing director of Black Lives Matter, expressed her gratitude in a statement to Variety, recognising the global impact of BTS’ gesture. She highlighted the ongoing pain experienced by Black communities due to centuries of oppression and thanked BTS and their global allies for standing united in the fight for Black lives.
Supporting Children Facing Cancer
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In celebration of his 28th birthday, Suga made a generous donation of $88,000 to Keimyung University Dongsan Medical Center in his hometown of Daegu. The donation was intended to support children who face financial barriers to receiving proper cancer treatment, with Suga expressing his desire to see them become healthy and hopeful.
Hospital director Cho Chi-heum expressed deep gratitude for Suga’s charitable gesture, noting the positive impact of such acts on society. He praised Suga and BTS for elevating national pride and hoped their influence would continue to inspire and win the hearts of people globally.
Speaking Out Against Anti-Asian Attacks
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BTS took to Twitter to address the racial attacks they have faced, affirming their stance against all forms of racial discrimination. Their statement came in response to the tragic March 16 Atlanta shooting, which resulted in the deaths of eight people, including six women of Asian descent.
In their message, BTS expressed their profound grief and anger, recounting the derogatory treatment they have experienced. They described being subjected to hurtful comments and discrimination based on their appearance and language, highlighting the deep pain caused by such hatred and violence.
Joining UNICEF’s Honour Club
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Jin was inducted into UNICEF’s Honors Club after his donations to the organisation exceeded 100 million Korean won (around $88,000), as reported by Allkpop. This prestigious membership recognises individuals who have made substantial contributions to UNICEF’s efforts.
The Honors Club is an exclusive group of donors who have given over 100 million Korean won, supporting UNICEF’s mission to enhance the lives of children through funding, specialised programmes, and mentorship. Jin’s inclusion reflects his significant impact on the organisation’s initiatives.
Contributing to Sewol Ferry Victims
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In 2017, BTS and their label made a significant donation of 100 million Korean won (about $85,000) to the Sewol Ferry Disaster 416 Family Council. This contribution was made in response to the tragic sinking of the MV Sewol ferry in 2014, which resulted in the deaths of 250 students who were on a school trip in South Korea.
The donation aimed to support the victims’ families and provide aid in the aftermath of the disaster. BTS’s gesture highlighted their commitment to social responsibility and their empathy towards those affected by the tragedy.
Advancing Music Education for Hearing-Impaired Students
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To mark RM’s 25th birthday, the BTS leader donated 100 million Korean won to Seoul Samsun School to support music education for students with hearing impairments. This generous contribution aims to provide these students with opportunities to experience and enjoy music in ways adapted to their needs.
A school official, as reported by Yonhap, noted that RM’s donation reflects his commitment to ensuring that students with hearing difficulties can engage with music through various accessible methods. This gesture underscores RM’s dedication to enhancing educational experiences for all students.
Leveraging Their Global Influence for Good
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BTS visited the White House for an official meeting with President Joe Biden, where they addressed important issues such as the increase in anti-Asian hate crimes and the need for greater Asian inclusion and diversity. The 35-minute discussion in the Oval Office also included BTS expressing their gratitude for President Biden’s signing of the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act into law.
During the meeting, BTS conveyed their appreciation for the government’s efforts to combat hate and promote solutions. They expressed their desire to contribute positively and support ongoing initiatives aimed at addressing these critical issues.
Giving Back to Their Hometowns
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Jimin donated 100 million Korean won to his hometown of Busan and its Metropolitan City Office of Education, as reported by Soompi. This generous contribution was aimed at supporting local schools and families in need.
The Office of Education announced that the funds would be allocated to various schools in the area. The money will be used to provide lunch money for students from low-income families, as well as to cover other essential needs.
-Sushmita Sarkar