BTS Speak At White House About Anti-Asian Hate Crimes

Joe Biden spoke with the Korean pop supergroup BTS for the final day of Asian American and Pacific Islanders Heritage Month. After their introduction at the White House’s press briefing, member RM began by thanking Biden for allowing them to speak about “the important issues of anti-Asian hate crimes, Asian inclusion and diversity.”

All seven members of the group stepped forward for brief statements. Member Jimin said, “We were devastated by the recent surge of hate crimes, including Asian American hate crimes. To put a stop on this and support the cause, we’d like to take the opportunity to voice [our support] once again.”

“We are here today thanks to our Army,” J-Hope added. “Our fans worldwide – who have different nationalities and cultures and use different languages. We are truly and always grateful.”

In general, the BTS members expressed appreciation for the platform and the success they have and hoped for more unity and embracing of each other’s differences. Their presence even on a White House live stream brought viewership into the hundreds of thousands, apparently.

One commentator may have bitten off more than he could chew when mocking the supergroup’s appearance invited the wrath of the BTS Army. Tucker Carlson said rather nonsensically that the invitation for BTS to appear signaled that “things have gotten very bad for Joe Biden, both public-facing and internally.” This resulted in a flood of replies from BTS fans insulting Carlson and just promoting the group to drown it out.

Some commentators did point out that it was “a little weird” that some people seemed gleeful about the group’s fans having to jump to BTS’ defense since it likely belittled the racism behind Carlson’s comments downplaying their discussion of hate crimes.