BTS and US Veterans Receive the Korea Society's 'Banfillt Award'

Contributions to the Development of Korea-US Relations... President Moon's Congratulations to Awardees

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] BTS and American Korean War veterans, along with the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry, received the Korea Society's 'Van Fleet Award' for their contributions to the development of Korea-US relations.

The Korea Society, a US-based nonprofit foundation promoting Korea-US friendship, announced that it held the Van Fleet Award ceremony during its annual gala conducted online on the 7th (local time). This award was established to honor General James Van Fleet, who commanded the US Eighth Army during the Korean War and founded the Korea Society in 1957. It is given annually to individuals or organizations that have contributed to Korea-US relations.

This year's recipient, BTS, was highly praised for creating a global sensation with their music and message, contributing to the advancement of Korea-US relations. Recently, BTS topped the US Billboard main singles chart 'Hot 100' with their song "Dynamite."

BTS stated, "Although we live in different times and spaces, we are connected through music, sharing culture and stories beyond borders and languages, standing in solidarity." They expressed gratitude, saying that their recent achievement of reaching number one on the Billboard main singles chart 'Hot 100' with "Dynamite" was thanks to those united with them.

In addition to BTS, former US Congressman Charles Rangel and Salvatore Scalato, president of the New York State Korean War Veterans Association, received the Van Fleet Award on behalf of American veterans in commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the Korean War. The Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry was selected as a co-recipient in recognition of its contributions to promoting Korea-US trade and investment and strengthening cooperation between companies.

Former Congressman Rangel said, "When I left Korea, I vowed never to return, but I ended up coming back." He added, "At that time, I witnessed, almost miraculously, a country that had emerged from ashes, poverty, and despair to become not only a friend and trade partner of the United States but also a spiritual pillar of democracy in East Asia."

President Moon Jae-in congratulated BTS on their award during his keynote speech, saying, "I congratulate BTS for playing a central role in cultural exchange between the two countries." He also expressed gratitude toward Korean War veterans, stating, "We have never forgotten our friends who fought together for freedom and peace in a distant and unfamiliar country on the other side of the globe," and added, "The strong Korea-US alliance today began with the sacrifice and dedication of the veterans."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.