Journalist, Author & Syndicated Columnist
It shouldn’t matter what language a group chooses to sing in. And yet, it has become a huge deal in K-pop, with some stans saying BTS are sellouts for singing their last three singles in English. I disagree, just as I defended Monsta X when they released an album sung all in English. But that’s not how some people chose to remember it.
BTS approaches their music as art, because that’s what they want to create – something beautiful and meaningful that withstands the test of time.
Minority journalists should have the same opportunity as white reporters to tackle prestigious assignments. Maybe their take won’t be better than their white colleagues. Maybe they will. But how will we ever know if they’re not given a chance?
In this essay, writer Jae-Ha Kim examines BTS’s recent statement calling attention to anti-Asian racism. Content warning for discussions of racism and use of a quoted slur.
In this op-ed, writer Jae-Ha Kim unpacks the racist comments of German radio host Matthias Matuschik towards Korean band BTS in the larger context of the rise in violence toward Asian people globally. Content warning for discussions of racism and use of a quoted slur.
In an attempt to remain anonymous, Gong Yoo donated money to help fight coronavirus under his real name of Gong Ji-cheol. The star of the film “Train To Busan” was among a slew of Korean celebrities (including Suga from BTS) who gave money to help medical workers and those afflicted by the disease.
Here’s the thing: Mistakes happen. Sometimes they’re our mistake. Sometimes the outlet inputs errors. Sometimes parts of the review or article are cut out due to space issues. It’s not the end of the world. And unless we specifically say that we hate your favorite member, just assume that we don’t, OK?
MTV News interviewed me for this piece on how differently “Parasite” director Bong Joon-Ho and BTS are viewed by critics.
Chris Pratt’s and Lisa Kudrow’s reactions are my favorites! 😂 They take such glee in reading the tweets, which were intended to mock them. Honestly, that’s how trolls should be addressed — with humor and a little appropriate pettiness.
