BTS meets US President Joe Biden, discusses hate crimes targeting Asians

On Tuesday, May 31 (GMT), the popular South Korean boy band BTS met with US President Joe Biden in Washington. They discussed the rise in hate crimes against the Asian population living in the US.

Before the start of the meeting, the Bangtan Boys called for a halt to crimes targeting Asian Americans. “We were devastated by the recent surge of hate crimes, including Asian American hate crimes,” said Jimin as per Reuters.

It was great to meet with you, @bts_bighit. Thanks for all you’re doing to raise awareness around the rise in anti-Asian hate crimes and discrimination.

I look forward to sharing more of our conversation soon. pic.twitter.com/LnczTpT2aL

— President Biden (@POTUS) June 1, 2022

The crime rate against Asians living in the US has increased to tremendous heights after the COVID-19 pandemic. Many politicians have blamed China for spreading the COVID-19 virus and this has ignited hatred among many people against the Asian communities. “To put a stop on this and support the cause, we’d like to take this opportunity to voice ourselves once again,” Jimin further added.

Thanks for having us at the White House! It was a huge honor to discuss important issues with @POTUS today. We're very grateful for #BTSARMY who made it all possible.🫰💜
#BTS #방탄소년단 #BTSatTheWhiteHouse pic.twitter.com/PZd8Ox2Kea

— BTS_official (@bts_bighit) June 1, 2022

The White House stated that the goal of the meeting was to discuss the “importance of diversity and inclusion and the BTS platform as youth ambassadors who spread a message of hope and positivity across the world.”