BTS' donations to help children in Palestine, Congo, and beyond via UNICEF's 'END Violence' campaign; ARMY brims with pride

While emerging from a nearly broke company to achieving immense success in the world of K-pop, Bangtan Sonyeondan, also known as BTS, has never shied away from giving back to society. While many celebrities are known to only talk and preach, BTS remains true to their motto of "actions speak louder than words," silently carrying out deeds without seeking recognition.

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BTS often inspires their fanbase, known as ARMY, with their philanthropic endeavours. Recently, UNICEF revealed that the globally renowned group has donated over Rs 53 crore ($6 million or 8.9 billion KRW) to the 'END Violence' initiative over the last 7 years. The K-pop stars raised funds through their campaign, which included an exclusive music video and anti-bullying booths at concert venues, in addition to proceeds from merchandise and albums.

Following the success of the campaign, BTS renewed their "Love Myself" campaign with UNICEF for the 'On My Mind' initiative, aimed at improving youth mental health worldwide, UNICEF Korea announced on April 22, 2024. 

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This news particularly filled their fandom, ARMY, with pride, as they have advocated for Palestine, Congo, and other countries where children and youth face hardships in the face of genocides. UNICEF has been at the forefront of aiding people in affected areas, and BTS' donations prove their ongoing support for worthy causes.

ARMY has also vocally defended BTS' character and silenced critics who have criticized the members for not speaking up for Palestine. It is essential to note that the seven members are enlisted in the South Korean military service and are restricted from expressing political opinions on any matter.

About the 'Love Yourself' campaign:

In 2017, BTS collaborated with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) campaign for combatting violence against children and adolescents globally, aiming to foster positive change through music.

At the start of the 'Love Yourself' campaign in November 2017, both BigHit Entertainment (now BIGHIT MUSIC) and BTS contributed over 500M KRW (Rs 3 crore) towards the cause. 

BTS further championed the campaign's message at the 73rd UN General Assembly for Generation Unlimited, marking the first time a K-pop group had addressed such an assembly.

Where is BTS?

All seven men — Kim Namjoon, Kim Seokjin, Min Yoongi, Jung Hoseok, Park Jimin, Kim Taehyung, and Jeon Jung-kook — are currently fulfilling their mandatory military service. The group is expected to reunite as seven by June 2025.

While Jin and J-Hope are serving as drill instructors at their respective military training camps, Suga is fulfilling his service as a social service agent after his shoulder surgery. RM is completing his service at the 15th Infantry Division, while V has been deployed to the ROK II Corps. Meanwhile, Jimin and Jungkook have reportedly joined the 5th Infantry Division. 

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