Nam Hee-suk Criticizes 'Excessive' Domestic Media Backlash Over BTS's Gwanghwamun Performance

TV personality Nam Hee-suk expressed his disappointment over the tone of some domestic media coverage following BTS's Gwanghwamun performance in March.

Nam Hee-suk recently posted on his Facebook, "Why did some (actually, quite a lot) domestic media outlets criticize BTS so much after their Gwanghwamun performance?" He pointed out reports that claimed "the audience was small," "nearby convenience stores couldn't sell water and gimbap, leaving them with leftover stock," and "the traffic control was a special privilege." He then noted, "They are receiving an incredible welcome all over the world and their concerts are a jackpot, yet there were so many articles like that, especially after their first comeback performance in Korea."

He added, "They are doing so well," showing his support for BTS. However, Nam Hee-suk also added his signature humor, writing, "Just don't go out of your way to appear as guest singers on 'National Singing Contest.'"

Previously, a controversy arose online immediately after BTS's comeback performance, 'BTS COMEBACK LIVE : ARIRANG', which was held at Gwanghwamun Plaza in Seoul this past March.

At the time, the concert was broadcast live worldwide through Netflix, garnering global attention, and the Seoul Metropolitan Government and police implemented large-scale safety controls in anticipation of hundreds of thousands of people gathering. Following the performance, positive evaluations of its economic impact and city promotion effects poured in. However, criticism was also raised regarding the usage of Gwanghwamun Plaza, excessive traffic control, citizen inconvenience, and the over-deployment of public personnel.

Meanwhile, since releasing their fifth studio album 'ARIRANG' this past March, BTS has been on a world tour spanning 34 cities worldwide across North America, Europe, South America, and Asia, with a total of 85 performances.

Recently, tens of thousands of fans gathered for their concert at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, USA, turning the entire city into a festival-like atmosphere as landmarks were lit up in BTS's concept color. BTS is scheduled to hold a concert at the Busan Asiad Main Stadium this coming June and will also connect with fans through live viewings in theaters across more than 80 countries and regions worldwide.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)