K-pop superstars BTS, whose new song “Permission to Dance” debuted at No. 1 on Billboard Hot 100, have been appointed as special presidential envoy.
South Korean President Moon Jae-in appointed the Grammy nominated group as Special Presidential Envoy for Future Generations and Culture.
In a written briefing, Blue House spokesperson Park Kyung-mee said BTS’ appointment as special envoy is in line with Korea’s aim to lead the global agenda for future generations, such as sustainable growth, and expand diplomatic power in line with Korea's elevated status in the international community.
She added that the appointment of a special envoy is part of public diplomacy and to enhance Korea’s image of leading global issues through collaboration with private experts.
As special envoy, BTS will attend major international conferences including the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly in September to deliver messages of comfort and hope to young people around the world, she said.
In addition, BTS will be part of activities to promote international cooperation to solve global issues such as the environment, poverty, inequality and respect for diversity.
Park Kyung-mee said the appointment of BTS as special envoy is even more meaningful because the message of consolation in the lyrics of "Permission to Dance," the sign language in the choreography, and coexistence and harmony of various races are in line with Korea's will to overcome the COVID-19 crisis through solidarity and cooperation with the world.
She added that the activities of BTS, who have been spreading hope and positive energy to people around the world who are exhausted from the prolonged COVID-19 situation, as special envoy of the president are expected to greatly contribute to enhancing Korea's status as a leading country in the post-COVID-19 era.