Korean PM Kim Min-seok visited HYBE, highlighting BTS's comeback at Gwanghwamun and the importance of freedom in K-pop culture.
January/22/2026 15:44
Prime Minister Kim Min-seok visited HYBE and mentioned BTS's comeback performance at Gwanghwamun. The Prime Minister visited HYBE's headquarters in Yongsan, Seoul, yesterday afternoon and held a town hall meeting with executives and employees. On this day, he touched on the penlight culture that attracted attention at the candlelight rally demanding the resignation of former President Yoon Seok-youl in 2024, emphasizing, 'Because we defended freedom, today's Hallyu exists. The foundation of Hallyu is liberal democracy.' He continued, 'The fact that BTS will showcase their comeback stage at Gwanghwamun Square, protected by penlights, holds great significance.' He also stated, 'The core of the K-POP system is “people,”' and revealed that they will consider multifaceted policy support and improvements, such as creating an environment where creators can focus on their work safely and nurturing young talent. Prior to the town hall meeting, he met with HYBE's CEO Lee Jae-sang and BELIFT LAB's CEO Kim Tae-ho, as well as ENHYPEN. Recently, HYBE applied to the Cultural Heritage Administration for permission to use and film in areas including Gwanghwamun Square, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Sungnyemun ahead of BTS's comeback. On the 20th, the Cultural Heritage Administration deliberated on the use and filming permissions in the Gyeongbokgung and Sungnyemun areas and approved them conditionally. Discussions regarding the performance are ongoing with related ministries such as the Seoul City government. - BTS, Cultural Heritage Administration conditionally approves filming and use in Gyeongbokgung area... Free performance under consideration - BTS, will they hold a free comeback celebration at Gwanghwamun Square? BIGHIT comments on reports.
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