Bang Si Hyuk’s Believes It Was His And BTS’s Efforts That Changed The Outlook On Asian Culture

However, domestic and international fan views were divided.

HYBE’s chairman, Bang Si Hyuk, revealed his confidence regarding K-Pop’s success in the global market.

| Asia Society

On December 23, Asia Society released a short interview video with Bang Si Hyuk.

In the video, he was asked if he ever imagined he would lead to the global rise of K-pop and Korean culture.

“Honestly, I never imagined this kind of success. When I was young, the global market or the U.S. market, which represents the global market, felt so far from me. All those involved were heroes to me who I could never possibly approach. And when BTS and I embarked on this journey together, I never thought it would lead us to where we are now.”

— Bang Si Hyuk

And with the help of BTS, he felt that he could achieve things that were never done before.

“About two and a half years after BTS debuted, I felt like I could actually achieve things that had never been done before in Asia. I really encouraged members of BTS and myself to try our best to realize our dreams. And step by step, as we chased the dreams in our sights, we arrived at where we are now. Looking back now, the things I do often feel surreal, just like what’s happening tonight.

Honestly, I can’t take credit for everything, but before BTS became a global success, understanding Asian culture was very limited and narrow-minded. But that changed through BTS and my efforts. We penetrated the world, and people appreciated our culture for what it was.”

— Bang Si Hyuk

While Korean netizens criticized his response…

| theqoo

• “He only got there because of luck.”
• “It’s embarrassing that HYBE is becoming the face of K-Pop.”

| theqoo

• “Just shut your mouth and come to Korea and attend the hearing.”
• “The riches earned through illegal methods have ruined K-Pop.”
• “He’s still in the U.S.?”

…international netizens thanked him for giving BTS credit.

| YouTube

Previously, Bang was selected as the winner at the Asia Game Challenger Awards in New York in October. You can watch the full interview below!

BTS