The inclusion of 'Filter' in BTS's upcoming anthology album is a problem as Bobby Chung, one of the song's creators, is on trial for sexual harassment and illegal video recording.
BTS (Bangtan Boys) is facing controversy ahead of their comeback next month. That's because of the song "Filter" which is planned to be released on their new album, "Proof.".
The inclusion of "Filter" in BTS's upcoming anthology album is a problem as Bobby Chung, one of the composers of BTS' Jimin's solo songs, is on trial for sexual harassment and illegal video recording.
The majority of fans said that songs composed by someone suspected of committing a sex crime should not be included in BTS's new album. On social media, a Korean hashtag meaning "boycott Bobby Chung's song" is trending.
This hashtag was created by ARMY (BTS fandom) who announced that they would not listen to or buy songs produced by Bobby Chung. Besides "Filter," this music producer also worked on several other BTS songs, such as "Answer: Love Yourself," "Home," "Love Maze," etc.
Many fans expressed their displeasure, "We don't want to hear these songs at the concert," "Junior group fans are watching us," etc.
BTS has also been criticized. HYBE revealed that the BTS members handpicked the songs on CD2's "Proof," which contains the song "Filter." BTS has conveyed positive messages, such as opposing discrimination, violence and crime, through their music and content.
Yet even after Bobby Chung's accusations were exposed, BTS still decided to include his song on the new album, putting the group's reputation along with the meaning of their previous moves on the verge of re-examination.
In fact, there are many times where K-Pop can't keep up with social issues and accept criticism. In November last year, Shinhwa's Kim Dong Wan had to apologize after publicly showing support for former M.C The Max member Lee Soo, who was accused of purchasing sexual services during his military service.
Melon was once criticized for recommending the song Jung Joon Young, the main character of the Burning Sun case. FNC Entertainment was also criticized for not removing Lee Jong Hyun from CN BLUE when he shared the illegal video but only terminated his contract after another controversy arose.
A pop culture critic pointed out, "It's understandable that fans are against the decision to include a song that Bobby Chung participated in making on the album. The problem is that the music industry, including the agency, shows no respect for such opposition."
Even after the controversy broke out, HYBE still focused on promoting BTS's new album without making a specific statement on this matter. The critic added, "If the company does not properly disclose its position on actions related to human rights violations, people may believe that they support such actions. As a result, BTS's image will also be badly damaged." (wk/chus)
