Bang Si Hyuk reflects on BTS’s success and the rise of K-pop.

On December 23rd KST, the YouTube channel ‘Asia Society’ released a video titled “Bang Si-Hyuk of HYBE Discusses BTS, Rise of K-pop and Korean Culture, and his Creative Process.”

In the video, HYBE Chairman Bang Si Hyuk candidly shared his thoughts on BTS’s success and the growth of K-pop. He remarked, “Honestly, I never imagined this level of success. When I was younger, the American music market, which represented global music, felt so distant. Everyone in that industry seemed like heroes, unreachable figures.”

He continued, “When I started this journey with BTS, I didn’t foresee it leading to where we are today. About two and a half years after BTS debuted, I began to sense that we could achieve something unprecedented in Asia. From then on, I pursued each dream step by step, and before I knew it, we arrived here. Even now, when I look back, what we’ve achieved feels surreal—just like tonight,” he added with a laugh.

Bang emphasized the importance of cultural understanding, saying, “Cultural clashes can lead to global tragedies. I believe that genuine understanding, rooted in cultural appreciation, can promote peace and prosperity worldwide. On a broader scale, we need to recognize our differences and use them as creative material.”

He also reflected on the perception of Asian culture prior to BTS’s global success: “Before BTS, understanding of Asian culture was narrow and often relegated to niche preferences. Through BTS’s global impact, efforts to promote Asian culture became widely recognized and appreciated. This increased mutual understanding among cultures.”

Bang expressed his confidence, stating, “Now, in the U.S. and globally, people not only adopt aspects of Asian culture but also work to develop it further. I strongly believe this contributes to global peace and the progress of humanity.”

When asked about creating music that resonates both in Korea and globally, he replied, “Balance is always the most important. Rather than labeling something as ‘global’ or ‘Korean,’ I focus on universal values—whether it’s a melody or a lyrical theme. By blending the unique elements I’ve learned as a Korean and my exposure to global music, I aim to create content that’s not just a mix of two cultures but something that stands alone as a powerful and moving experience.”

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