The K-pop group BTS has been honored with a top national award for their ongoing charity work. The members received the Presidential Commendation at the 5th Republic of Korea Good Donation Awards for their global “LOVE MYSELF” campaign. The ceremony was held in Seoul on Monday, December 6. The award from the Ministry of the Interior and Safety recognizes the campaign’s massive fundraising success and its positive message for youth worldwide. The group’s fanbase, ARMY, has been celebrating the official recognition of an effort that has defined the band’s charitable mission for years.
Details of the Award and Ceremony
The award celebrates BTS’s significant role in spreading a culture of giving, both in Korea and internationally. The Ministry of the Interior and Safety, which organizes the awards, presents them to individuals and groups who show a consistent commitment to sharing and donation activities. This year, a total of 20 awards were given out.
The event was held at the Korea Advertising Culture Center in Seoul. The group was recognized for delivering hope to young people globally and for encouraging their large fanbase to participate in charitable giving. Minister of the Interior and Safety Yoon Ho-jung spoke at the ceremony, stating that the winners’ efforts help lead society toward a healthier community.
Other winners at the same ceremony included Samsung Electronics, which also received a Presidential Commendation for its programs supporting young people. Actress Ko Doo-shim received the Prime Minister’s Commendation for over 40 years of donation activities.
The Impact of the LOVE MYSELF Campaign
The “LOVE MYSELF” campaign began in November 2017 as a partnership between BTS and the Korean Committee for UNICEF. Its primary goal is to promote a safe and healthy life for all children and young people, free from violence, under the slogan #ENDviolence.
The campaign is deeply connected to the group’s music, specifically their “Love Yourself” album series from 2017. The message of finding love for oneself and then extending that love to others became the central theme of both their art and their charity. Funds have been raised through various methods, including donating a portion of album sales and income from official campaign merchandise.
The financial result has been remarkable. To date, the campaign has raised a total of 9.2 billion Korean won. This is equivalent to approximately $6.7 million. This money has been used to support youth welfare and counseling programs. The campaign’s reach is global, providing aid for children affected by violence in 155 countries.
In April 2024, marking the campaign’s sixth anniversary, BTS and UNICEF renewed their partnership, committing to continue the work for the foreseeable future.
Fan Reactions to the Presidential Honor
News of the award quickly spread online, where fans expressed immense pride. Many focused on the contrast between the official honor and recent online criticism the group has faced.
“Bangtan is always winning,” said one fan on social media, using the group’s Korean name.
Other fans shared how meaningful it was to see the group recognized for work that comes from a genuine place. One supporter noted, “This is so huge. Getting recognised for a good deed that you did truly from your heart is such a nice feeling”.
The sentiment of supporting artists with good morals was a common theme. “We stan the right people,” wrote multiple fans, emphasizing their pride in the group’s character. Another reaction highlighted the real-world impact versus online negativity: “Hate campaigns got nothing on BTS outside of social media cuz they’re genuinely good people”.
Many fans also pointed out their own participation, noting that BTS’s actions have inspired them to donate and help others as well.
Also Read: Lee Min-ho & Moon Ga-young Reportedly Offered Lead Roles In Historical Drama ‘Scent Of The Night’
