Agency apologizes over BTS's misogynistic lyrics

BTS finally responds to the controversy over misogynistic lyrics in their songs. /Courtesy of Big Hit Entertainment

By Yeo Ye-rim

K-pop boy band BTS, also known as Bangtan Boys, officially apologized on Thursday for their songs’ misogynistic lyrics and offensive tweets.

“We sincerely apologize for all those who have been offended by some of BTS’s controversial song lyrics and social network posts,” Big Hit Entertainment, the band’s agency, said. “After conducting reviews on the lyrics since last year, we recognize the discomfort that fans might have felt over the misogynic claims.”

“Joke,” a solo number by BTS leader Rap Monster, includes lyrics: “Yes, you’re the best girl, bossy/ so f**king good at being bossy/ Wait, now that I think, you were never the boss/ I’ll refer to you by gonorrhea instead of boss.”

According to Hankook Ilbo, some netizens created a Twitter account in May to demand the band’s formal feedback on the controversy.

With ongoing requests for an apology, the agency said: “We realize that we are not yet free from social prejudices and mistakes and that it is wrong to define women’s roles and values from the men’s perspective. We will continuously take into account the controversies from society and fans and make sure to avoid them in our future activities.”