BTS Members© Getty Images

10 Times BTS Won Us Over With Their Philanthropic Efforts

In October 2022, the global supergroup from South Korea announced that its seven members will be fulfilling their mandatory military duties, with the hope of coming back together in 2025. In addition to their service to their country, BTS has given back in so many ways and shows no signs of stopping.

Most recently, BTS’ Suga celebrated his 30th birthday with a generous donation to aid Turkey and Syria’s earthquake relief efforts.

On March 9, Suga’s birthday, non-governmental organization (NGO) Save the Children revealed, “BTS member Suga has donated 100 million won [approximately $75,900] for emergency relief in Turkey and Syria following severe damage from a record-breaking earthquake.”

Suga commented, “So many children and families have suffered great damage from this earthquake. I send my condolences to the survivors and victims. I hope that this becomes at least a bit of help to children affected by the earthquake and hope this [donation] is used to provide relief goods for children.”

Save the Children will utilize Suga’s donation to fund winter blankets, mattresses, school supplies, and various other necessities needed in the affected regions.

Ahead, let’s take a look at all the philanthropic efforts that the beloved boy band BTS has undertaken over the years.

Helping Child Violence Victims in East Africa

Jung Ho-seok, known as J-Hope, made headlines in May 2021 for his philanthropic gesture towards the ChildFund Korea. The K-pop sensation donated over $89,000 to the organization to aid in the establishment of the One Stop Center in Tanzania, East Africa. The center provides crucial support to children who have been victims of violence, offering medical attention, legal aid and counseling services. J-Hope’s donation was a tribute to Korea’s Children’s Day, a national holiday celebrated on May 5.

“In light of Children’s Day, J-Hope donated 100 million won for the support of children in Tanzania exposed to violence,” ChildFund Korea said.

Donating $1 Million to Black Lives Matter

The beloved group and management company Big Hit Entertainment shared their solidarity with Black Lives Matter by donating $1 million to the organization in June 2020.

“Black people all over the world are in pain at this moment from the trauma of centuries of oppression,” Kailee Scales, managing director for Black Lives Matter, said in a statement. “We are moved by the generosity of BTS and allies all over the world who stand in solidarity in the fight for Black lives.”

Inspired by the group’s action, the BTS Army set a #MatchAMillion goal and made it happen with donations to BLM that surpassed $1 million.

Denouncing Anti-Asian Attacks

Amid the aftermath of the devastating Atlanta shooting on March 16, 2021, which claimed the lives of eight people including six women of Asian descent, BTS took to Twitter to share a statement denouncing racial discrimination. The K-pop group candidly revealed that they have faced their share of racist attacks and prejudices, lending an empathetic voice to the victims of such hate crimes. In their powerful message, BTS made it clear that they stand in solidarity against all forms of racism and violence.

“We feel grief and anger,” BTS wrote. “We have endured expletives without reason and were mocked for the way we look. We were even asked why Asians spoke in English. We cannot put into words the pain of becoming a subject of hatred and violence for such a reason.”

They continued: “But what our voice must convey is clear. We stand against racial discrimination. We condemn violence. You, I and we all have the right to be respected. We will stand together.”

Sharing Words of Encouragement During the Pandemic

BTS spoke at the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2020 to share words of hope and encouragement to young people during the pandemic. Each member spoke, revealing how lonely and hopeless they felt when “everything fell apart,” and that they channeled their honest feelings into their music.

“I found the music I love, and I found myself,” Jin said. “Thinking about the future and trying hard are all important. But cherishing yourself, encouraging yourself and keeping yourself happy is the most important.”

RM added, “We must try to love ourselves, and imagine the future. BTS will be there with you.”

Supporting Children Battling Cancer

Suga donated $88,000 on March 11, 2021, to Keimyung University Dongsan Medical Center in his hometown of Daegu in honor of his 28th birthday.

“I wanted to help the children, who cannot receive proper treatment because of financial hardship, and see them become healthy and bright,” the star said in a statement.

Hospital director Cho Chi-heum responded to Suga’s generosity, saying, “We were so moved by Suga’s charitable act. I hope positive influences like these can further spread in our society. I am also truly proud of BTS members for enhancing national prestige and wish the band continues to win the hearts of people around the world.”

Inspiring People to Practice Self Love

In 2017, after the release of their Love Yourself: Her EP, the members of BTS teamed up with their label, Big Hit Entertainment, and UNICEF to promote LOVE MYSELF, a global anti-violence campaign aimed at making the world a safer place for young people. The group pledged a portion of their album sales and all profits from their merchandise towards the cause.

Donating to Sewol Ferry Victims

In 2017, the group and their label made a meaningful contribution to the Sewol Ferry Disaster 416 Family Council by donating 100 million Korean won (approximately $85,000), according to a Soompi report. The donation was made in the aftermath of the heartbreaking incident where 250 students drowned following the MV Sewol ferry’s capsizing during a school trip in South Korea back in 2014.

Joining UNICEF’s Honors Club

In 2019, Jin’s philanthropic efforts were recognised when he was inducted into UNICEF’s Honors Club for his donations surpassing 100 million Korean won (approximately $88,000). He was invited to join the exclusive club, which recognises donors who have made significant contributions to UNICEF’s mission of improving the lives of children worldwide. Through funding, special programming, and mentorship, UNICEF works tirelessly to make a positive impact in the lives of vulnerable children, and Jin’s dedication to the cause has earned him a place among the organization’s most esteemed supporters.

Supporting Music Education for Students Who are Hearing Impaired

RM, the leader of BTS, celebrated his 25th birthday by donating 100 million Korean won to the Seoul Samsun School to support music education for students with hearing impairments. “[RM] made the donation, expressing his will to help students with hearing difficulties enjoy music through various means,” a school official said as per reports.

Giving Back to Their Hometowns

In 2019, Jimin made a generous donation of 100 million Korean won to his hometown of Busan and the Metropolitan City Office of Education. The funds were allocated to each school in the region, with a focus on providing lunch money and necessary goods to underprivileged students and their families.