Hybe, the entertainment company behind global phenomenon BTS, has refuted claims that the Seoul Metropolitan Government’s initiative to illuminate iconic landmarks in red to commemorate the group’s highly anticipated comeback is politically charged.
Recently, the Seoul city government announced a plan to bathe 15 landmarks, including the N Seoul Tower on Mount Namsan, Lotte World Tower, the Sebitseom (Some Sevit) islands, and Cheonggye Stream, in vibrant red light on Friday and Saturday evenings. This celebratory gesture was designed to mark the return of the globally recognized K-pop group, BTS.
However, the decision ignited speculation among some fans and online commentators. Concerns arose that the color choice was strategically implemented to subtly promote a particular political party leading up to the June local elections. The color red is notably associated with the main opposition People Power Party, of which Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon is a member.
“The red color scheme was selected to align with the core visual identity of BTS’ upcoming album, ‘Arirang,'” Hybe clarified in a statement released on Wednesday. “The Seoul Metropolitan Government is utilizing the color at our specific request.”
The agency further appealed to the public, urging restraint from attributing political motives to large-scale cultural events.
This statement followed a surge of online posts earlier in the day from ARMY, BTS’ dedicated global fanbase, expressing criticism of the city’s decision.
Many fans took to social media platforms, employing hashtags like #BTSisPurple to emphasize the group’s longstanding and iconic symbolic color.
They pointed out that major landmarks in cities where BTS performs, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Empire State Building, have historically been illuminated in purple as a welcoming gesture.
“Arirang,” BTS’ fifth studio album, is scheduled for release at 1 p.m. on Friday. This release marks the first group project involving all members in three years and nine months. (Yonhap)
