South Korean Prime Minister Kim Min Seok visited HYBE, the agency that represents BTS, on January 21.
According to the Office for Government Policy Coordination, Kim visited HYBE’s headquarters in Yongsan, Seoul, where he held a town hall-style meeting with company employees. During the visit, he toured several facilities within the building, including dance practice rooms, recording studios, and other creative spaces. Kim also met members of ENHYPEN, exchanging handshakes and taking selfies together.
Referring to BTS, who are scheduled to make a full-group return in March, Kim spoke about the cultural significance of their comeback. “The roots of the Korean Wave lie in liberal democracy,” he said. “The world continues to ask about the strength of Korean culture and the secret behind Hallyu. The answer lies in cultural energy that has grown from a history that has protected freedom and democracy.”
He further highlighted the role of fandom culture in the global expansion of K-pop. “At the center of popularization and globalization is Korea’s fandom culture,” Kim said. “The fact that BTS will hold a comeback stage at Gwanghwamun Square, a place safeguarded by fans holding light sticks, carries great significance.”
Kim also expressed optimism about the impact of BTS’s return as a full group this year. “Within the new momentum created by BTS’s comeback, K-pop will once again surprise the world,” he said. He added that the government will continue to act as a strong partner for creative industries and will provide full support to ensure South Korea firmly establishes itself as a leading cultural nation.
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