BTS Returns to Paint Seoul Red... HYBE Says "Don't Interpret Politically"

HYBE has dismissed the controversy over alleged political color symbolism regarding BTS's album key color.

On the afternoon of March 18, HYBE (Big Hit Music) issued a statement saying, "The red color used for the Gwanghwamun Square performance was based on the key color of the 'Arirang' album," and added, "The Seoul Metropolitan Government is also using red lighting at various city landmarks at HYBE's request."

To celebrate BTS's comeback, the Seoul Metropolitan Government is lighting up landmarks such as Sebitseom and Namsan Seoul Tower in red. This is in line with the concept of their fifth full-length album, 'Arirang.'

However, with the nationwide local elections approaching in June, some have interpreted the use of red as a political statement. BTS's official group color is purple, while the opposition party, People Power Party, is associated with the color red.

HYBE pointed out that the logo and other aspects of the 'Arirang' album are indeed red, and requested, "We ask that popular cultural events not be excessively interpreted through a political lens."

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