BTS members have been appointed the Busan Ambassadors for South Korea’s bid to host the World Expo in 2030.
2030 World Expo
The World Expo is one of the biggest global events ever. It’s on the same level as the World Cup and the Olympics. Overseen by the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), an intergovernmental body, the World Expo is a large-scale festival held every five years. It’s usually centered around the theme of improving humankind’s knowledge. It’s also where governments, cities, and citizens can showcase their achievements.
According to The Korea Herald/Asian News Network at The Inquirer, the bidding committee held an honorary ceremony at Hybe’s headquarters in Seoul, BTS’ label headquarters. At the ceremony were BTS, Prime Minister Han Ducksoo, SK Group Chairman Chey Taewon, Busan mayor Park Heongjoon and Hybe CEO Park Jiwon.
As ambassadors, BTS will be involved in promotional activities, both in South Korea and abroad. They are set to hold a global concert in Busan this October. They will also conduct negotiations with BIE voting members, as well as advocate for Busan as a candidate at the BIE General Assembly.
Why BTS?
Represented by Hybe Corporation, BTS have become South Korea icons to the rest of the world. Back in 2020, BTS were one of three national icons that South Korea chose to represent their country at the Tokyo Olympics. South Korean President Moon Jae-in appointed them special envoys before their third speech at the United Nations. They also met with U.S. President Joe Biden to discuss the rise in anti-Asian hate. There’s no question as to whether or not BTS are powerhouse representatives of South Korea.
With Busan vying to host the World Expo in 2030, it seems only natural that BTS should be the ambassadors. Not only are they the most globally known Kpop act, two of their members—Jimin and Jungkook—are from Busan.
Recently, the Kpop idols announced a hiatus. After being launched into global stardom rather quickly, the boys explained that they felt as though they’d lost their direction. They wanted to spend time focusing on who they are now. However, “hiatus” for BTS means solo projects, Disney+ content, YouTube challenges, music collaborations and apparently being appointed ambassadors for the World Expo. ARMYs do hope, though, that the boys are able to take the time they want and get the rest they need.
