Seong Il-jong on BTS Remarks Controversy: "It's a Misunderstanding, I'm the One Who Proposed the Military Service Exemption Bill"

BTS Dongwon's 'Authoritarian' Criticism
"Expressed Opinion as a National Defense Committee Member"

Seong Il-jong, a member of the People Power Party, explained regarding the criticism he received from fans after requesting the Ministry of National Defense to support BTS's attendance at the 2023 Saemangeum World Scout Jamboree K-pop concert, saying, "It seems they are upset about the part where they say, 'You send them to the military whenever, but when the Jamboree event becomes an issue, you want BTS to handle the situation,' but there is a misunderstanding."

In an interview with MBC Radio's 'Kim Jong-bae's Focus' on the 9th, Seong emphasized, "In fact, I was the one who proposed the bill regarding BTS's military exemption in the 20th and 21st National Assembly."

Earlier, Seong had requested the Ministry of National Defense, saying, "I hope all measures will be taken so that BTS, who are in military service status, can all participate together and raise the national prestige of the Republic of Korea," which sparked backlash from fans.

Seong Il-jong, member of the People Power Party. [Image source=Yonhap News]

Regarding the criticism that "singers are being authoritatively mobilized as tools to manage the situation," Seong explained, "I just reviewed whether it was possible and expressed the opinion that it would be good to send them out if necessary."

When asked, "Does the national prestige only rise if BTS participates?" he said, "BTS obviously has a certain status," adding, "Other K-pop stars are also excellent, but for example, there are slight differences in music genres and styles, and because BTS performs so well and stands out, people tend to be more enthusiastic."

He continued by mentioning other K-pop groups, calling them "very proud young people leading the cultural powerhouse of the Republic of Korea."

Regarding whether discussions about inviting BTS are actually underway, he said, "I haven't confirmed whether the Ministry of National Defense has discussed this with BTS's agency," adding, "Since I am a member of the National Defense Committee, if I express an opinion, the government can analyze it and explore the possibility. That's why I gave my opinion."

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