Korean Congresswoman Admits She Once Looked Down on BTS Before They Became Famous

   

Any fan likely knows by heart the story of BTS—from rookies under a small agency to world-class K-pop superstars who built today's No. 1 K-pop empire. Not only fans but anyone who talks about BTS will immediately recall their extraordinary journey.

Their rise wasn't just about overcoming their company's financial struggles or the industry's intense elimination system. Before they found the spotlight, the members of BTS had to endure a kind of "Mental boot camp" filled with disdain and even humiliation from people within the industry, along with severe cyberbullying from individuals on social media.

 

Of course, with the determination and resilience of seven young men, non of that was enough to bring them down. The success, fame, and status BTS hold today are the sweetest response to those who once looked down on them—so much so that many have publicly expressed their regret.

One notable example is South Korean lawmaker Na Kyung-won from the Liberty Korea Party. During a speech at a university filled with young people, she mentioned BTS and what she referred to as "her unfortunate incident."

She shared that she had once organized an event for people with disabilities, which BTS attended. Figure skating queen Kim Yuna was also present at the event.

 

Back in 2013-2014, Kim Yuna was considered one of the most respected and beloved figures in South Korea—not only in sports but also in popular culture. Her 2010 Olympic gold medal, 2014 Olympic silver medal, and World Championship titles had made her a national icon and a source of pride for the entire country.

In contrast, Na admitted that at the time, she saw BTS only as newly debuted K-pop idols with no remarkable achievements or titles. That's why Kim Yuna drew all the attention at the event, and even Na herself took photos only with the skating queen, not with the young idols. Looking back, she regrets what she now considers a thoughtless act.

Na Kyung-won confessed, "I'm a fan of BTS. Back when BTS wasn't well-known, they attended an event I organized for people with disabilities. At the time, I only took photos with Yuna Kim, who was very famous, and didn't take any with BTS, who wasn't famous then. I really regret it now."

She than emphasized that BTS has now become a symbol representing South Koren youth and encouraged the audience by saying, "You probably remember the message BTS shared at the UN Assembly, which was: love yourself. Everyone, remember to love yourselves. That's what you can do for the better future of Korea."

 

Although Na's past behaviour was disappointing, ARMYs still praised her for having the courage to admit her mistake. They take pride in the fact that BTS have now made those who once looked down on them face the consequences, even to the point of bowing in return.

Aside from Na, comedians Heo Kyung-hwan, Jo Se-ho, and Park Myung-soo—who once ignored BTS's greetings and displayed dismissive or disrespectful attitudes toward the members before their fame, have each publicly expressed regret after meeting BTS again as top K-pop superstars.

Rapper B-Free is another example, having eventually bowed his head and admitted that mocking BTS—especially Suga—in the past was wrong. Worse still, while BTS's career skyrocketed, his own faded into oblivion, beyond recovery.

ARMYs empasize that respect and courtesy are basic standards of human interaction, and that no one should be so quick to judge others under any circumtances.

ARMYs comments:

1. The price you pay for looking down on others too soon.

2. That's right. When my boys weren't famous, there were a lot of people like her.

3. Seeing people who once ignored them now regret it feels so satisfying. The boys never needed to talk back—their success spoke louder than any words.

4. She talks like she's a fan of BTS now.

5. Such an embarrassing story to bring up in a speech.

6. She's a prime example of people who used to look down on BTS.

7. Our boys are good at making people feel ashamed of their past actions.

8. It's crazy how people used to look down on them, and npw they're literally global icons. BTS didn't just prove themselves, they changed the whole K-pop game. So proud to stan them.

9. BTS's story will always be my biggest motivation. No matter how many people doubt you, if you stay humble and keep working, the world will eventually recognize your worth.