Sung Il-jong: "The Democratic Party government even took BTS to the UN"

People Power Party Lawmaker, CBS Radio Interview
"Those Who Expected BTS Event Will Be Disappointed"

Seong Il-jong, a member of the People Power Party, stated in an interview with CBS Radio's 'Kim Hyun-jung's News Show' on the 10th that BTS's decision not to participate in the 2023 Saemangeum World Scout Jamboree concert "will be somewhat disappointing to those who were looking forward to the event."

Seong explained the background, saying, "Could we not cooperate in a way that creates good memories of the Republic of Korea? Such good memories are also assets for the future of Korea. For the 43,000 foreign youths attending, the private sector is currently taking the lead in creating good memories of Korea. I hope our military could also participate together. That is why the support was requested."

Regarding the criticism following his mention of the necessity of the jamboree performance, including BTS members who are serving in the military, Seong said, "I could feel the very passionate love and affection from ARMYs and others who love BTS."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

However, he took a sharp tone concerning criticism from Park Beom-gye of the Democratic Party.

Seong said, "During the Democratic Party government, they took BTS to the UN, the White House, and everywhere else. He was even a minister. Since the country is facing difficulties and about 43,000 foreign youth guests are here, regardless of the process, shouldn't the priority be to finish things well?"

Seong added, "Therefore, with all the private sectors stepping up to support, it is better to support by any means to successfully conclude the event. Saying otherwise is, in my opinion, inappropriate."

Seong stated, "In any case, we have to consider it from the perspective of national interest. BTS has traveled the world, elevating Korea's national prestige and performing as a cultural advanced and leading country. We have seen related Hallyu products sell like hotcakes and Korea's market expand. That is why it was reviewed from the national interest perspective."

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