Kickstarted in 2017, the BTS Love Myself Campaign was initiated by the global maverick Kpop group alongside UNICEF to help improve the lives of young people. The two forces collectively aimed at promoting self-esteem among children globally and curbing violence, bullying and abuse. With 2022 nearing its end, the group is celebrating the success story of the prestigious initiative, now reaching its 5 year mark.
A message for audiences around the world was released on the official YouTube channel of the music band. The members held banners for their campaign as the group leader RM, a.k.a. Kim Namjoon began the conversation, highlighting that the campaign’s message has permeated their lives like “background music”, and how it has impacted the lives of those who follow the mantra to this date.
The eldest member, Jin, adds to the same idea that people may not recognise the power held in such a simple statement, yet its strength helps people in unprecedented situations. Rapper Suga also points out that though it has helped many people already, there may be some who still don’t know how to love themselves, which is why it’s important for them to reiterate their campaign’s motto every now and then.
J-Hope and Jimin build up the assertion that it’s crucial for anyone having a hard time to reach out to others as it’s quite likely that one may forget the gravity of the message while being caught up in the daily rigmarole. V supports the idea by mentioning that the meaning of true love begins with loving oneself, and only then we can spread that feeling across to others.
Jungkook asks us all to reflect on our past actions and recall if we’ve stayed positive and expressed our warmth to others while keeping ourselves grounded. Finally, RM ends the message with the appeal to keep spreading positive energy and the group cheers on the campaign name in unison.
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BTS’ ultimate aim, as shared with UNICEF on last year’s anniversary states, “We hope that the LOVE MYSELF message can continue to serve to invigorate everyone’s lives. We will be honoured if all seven of us can continue this campaign to return the amazing love that we have received, and give people the strength to come closer to LOVE MYSELF. We hope to keep doing what we are doing and voice what we are voicing, so we can help people find happiness and love.”
Over the past few years, the project has received millions of engagements with messages of self-love and self-care rising up. The band also pledged its support to UNICEF with proceeds from Love Myself merchandise and album sales supporting the cause.
Check Out the BTS Love Myself Campaign 5th Anniversary Message
Tune into BTS’ music on Spotify and watch the group’s speech at the United Nations here.
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