BTS speak out against racism and violence, share own experiences of discrimination

K-pop superstars BTS have spoken out against racism, and shared their own experiences of discrimination, following a year of increased racism and violence against Asian American communities across the country, and beyond it.

In a statement posted to their 34 million Twitter followers on Tuesday, the South Korean pop group joined other celebrities and companies who have contributed to the #StopAsianHate and #StopAAPIHate hashtags, campaigning against racism, supporting community nonprofits helping those affected, and shining a light on personal experiences of racist discrimination.

“We cannot put into words the pain of becoming the subject of hatred and violence for such a reason. Our own experiences are inconsequential compared to the events that have occurred over the past few weeks. But these experiences were enough to make us feel powerless and chip away our self-esteem,” read the group’s statement, published in both Korean and English.

The statement follows the March 16 Atlanta shootings in which eight people were killed, six of whom were Asian women and four of whom were of Korean descent. Those killed in the attacks have been identified as Soon Chung Park, Hyun Jung Grant, Suncha Kim, Yong Ae Yue, Delaina Ashley Yaun, Xiaojie Tan, Daoyou Feng, and Paul Andre Michels.

“What is happening right now cannot be dissociated from our identity as Asians,” BTS’ statement continued. “It required considerable time for us to discuss this carefully and we contemplated deeply on how we should voice our message. But what our voice must convey is clear.”

After sending condolences to those who have lost their loved ones, BTS said they “feel grief and anger,” and shared their own experiences of racist discrimination. “We have endured expletives without reason and were mocked for the way we look,” reads the group’s statement. “We were even asked why Asians spoke in English.”

The group concluded their statement with clear opposition to racism and violence. “We stand against racial discrimination. We condemn violence. You, I and we have have the right to be respected. We will stand together.”

BTS also spoke out against racist violence last year, donating $1 million to Black Lives Matter with their record label, Big Hit Entertainment. In a statement at the time, the group used some of the same wording as today’s (which sadly shows you how much has changed since then). 

Here’s how you can support the safety of Asian Americans, too.