The Multifaceted Impact of BTS: Driving South Korea’s Economy, Soft Power, and Cultural Exchange

Abstract

It is noteworthy that BTS, a South Korean boy band, is reported to contribute 0.3 percent of the Korean GDP, a figure that has sparked scholarly interest and extensive research. This paper draws on recent academic literature and data published by different platforms to further address the issue of how BTS promotes Korean development. It also incorporates a variety of music content released on the official BTS channel. The paper reveals that BTS significantly impacts Korea in three key areas: the economy, diplomacy, and culture. The group becomes an important force driving economic development in South Korea, enhancing the country’s global standing, and promoting its image. These findings underscore significant implications for global cultural interaction and the promotion of multiculturalism. BTS’s influence extends beyond economic and diplomatic realms, fostering a cultural exchange that enriches and diversifies global cultural landscapes.