BTS Appears on US 'Jimmy Fallon Show'...Pre-Show Host's Comment Sparks Racism Controversy

The group BTS appeared on the popular American talk show "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon," where they performed their new song for the first time and connected with global fans. However, the filming process was marred by a controversy over a racist remark.

According to Yonhap News on March 26, BTS appeared on NBC's "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon," where they introduced their fifth studio album "Arirang" in a mix of English and Korean, showing a natural rapport with fans. Leader RM explained, "'Arirang' is a song that best represents Koreans, containing a variety of emotions such as sorrow, joy, and resistance," adding, "We wanted this new song to carry such universal messages as well." The members repeatedly emphasized their Korean sensibility and cultural roots.

BTS appearing on the popular American NBC program "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon." Photo courtesy of NBC

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During the broadcast, as parts of the new songs were unveiled, the live audience responded with mass sing-alongs and cheers, creating a heated atmosphere that began even before BTS took the stage, with fans chanting the members' names. The cameras also captured fans emotionally high-fiving the members. Notably, BTS performed their new song "Swim" at the Guggenheim Museum in New York, utilizing the museum's iconic spiral structure for a special performance. This was the first time the song was revealed on TV. RM, who had to perform seated during the Seoul concert due to an ankle injury, presented the choreography himself this time, delivering a complete performance.

However, controversy arose over a remark made in the studio during the show's recording. According to American entertainment media outlet TMZ, the pre-show warm-up host Seth Herzog joked to the audience, "Anyone here from the North? No one?" This comment, referencing North Korea just before BTS's appearance, was criticized as problematic, with fans pointing out that it was an inappropriate statement targeting Koreans and BTS. Criticism spread on social media, with many calling it "a remark that disregards Korea's history and reality."

Internationally, asking Koreans if they are "from North Korea" is often recognized as a racially prejudiced comment based on bias, and this controversy is also seen as stemming from a lack of cultural sensitivity. Citing internal sources, TMZ reported that Herzog personally apologized to the BTS members, and that senior executives at the network had been made aware of the incident and conducted discussions. However, no official statement has been released yet.

Meanwhile, after releasing their album on March 20 and holding a concert in Gwanghwamun, Seoul on March 21, BTS traveled to the United States to continue their activities. They are scheduled to appear on "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" for two consecutive days to give additional interviews and performances.

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