BTS Faces Backlash in China Over Korean War Comments - Variety

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Although he made no mention at all of China, Chinese internet users and state-run media were quick to slam the comment for not acknowledging the sacrifices of Chinese soldiers who fought with North Korea against the U.S.

Hashtags claiming that “BTS humiliated China” were trending in China Monday, with one user writing, “If you want to make money in China you should consider the feelings of Chinese fans.” The tabloid-esque Global Times trumpeted that “the band’s totally one-sided attitude to the Korean War hurst the feelings [of Chinese netizens] and negates history.”.

Major companies Samsung, Hyundai and Fila appear to already be distancing themselves from BTS in China, appearing to pull ads and products affiliated with the group in what are likely attempts to avoid boycotts from passionately nationalistic Chinese consumers.

While the Chinese internet was busy bemoaning BTS’ supposed politics, the rest of its fandom on Twitter, a platform blocked in China, was collectively celebrating its new chart records