BTS spoke on Wednesday at the 75th United Nations General Assembly and delivered a heartfelt speech about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
What We Know:
- The K-pop superstars once again got the opportunity to address the United Nations. Due to the coronavirus, this year’s UN General Assembly was held virtually through online meetings and pre-recorded statements. The boys were invited to speak by the Group of Friends of Solidarity for Global Health Security, who hosted the virtual assembly.
- BTS was introduced by UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore. Fore addressed young people around the world who have been affected by the pandemic, saying “you are not alone” and that this is a time where we can look toward the future and “build a better world”.
- The group used their remarks to share their own struggles during the pandemic and inspire young people to look forward and care for themselves and their loved ones.
- RM started the speech by speaking about how his life was driven by imagination, but that “COVID-19 was beyond my imagination,” and that he “became alone” during the pandemic. All seven members spoke about the loneliness of the pandemic and how the world shrunk to the rooms they were isolated in.
- The group went on to talk about finding comfort in their close relationships and tried to offer a message of inspiration and resilience. Their newfound time allowed them to work on new songs together. J-Hope added, “We embraced all these emotions and the seven of us began to make music together. This is where the music came from, and this made us honest.”
“Thinking about the future and trying hard are all important. But cherishing yourself, encouraging yourself, and keeping yourself happy is the most important. In a world of uncertainty, we must cherish the importance of ‘me,’ ‘you,’ and ‘us’.” – Jin
- RM closed the speech by acknowledging that 2020 has been hard and dark for many, but that we can all be part of a lighter future. “Now more than ever, we must try to remember who we are and face who we are. We must try to love ourselves and imagine the future. BTS will be there with you,” he said. All seven spoke the last line: “Life goes on, let’s live on.”
BTS previously addressed the United Nations in 2018 as part of UNICEF’s Generation Unlimited campaign.
