Scholar-Journalist of the Week: How popular Korean band ‘BTS’ is winning hearts globally

A class 6 student of Apeejay School, Faridabad Sector-15, Hetvi Piplani loves to cook, read and listen to music in her free time. Besides academics, she nurtures her passion for making Indian, Italian and Korean delicacies. She likes to stay updated about popular culture, and so, her favourite picks are bands and OTT series in the Korean language. She says, “My curiosity about Korean culture and cinema developed in school. Once, we had a Korean cultural folk performance from the members of the Embassy.” Turns out that Hetvi and her friends, since that time, love to discuss the global K-pop band, BTS and the latest developments in the music scene. Read On, edited excerpts from the interview:

Please tell us about your choice of topic for Scholar-Journalist.

I wrote this piece simply because I wanted people to become aware about Korean bands. I follow Blackpink, Itzy, ENHYPEN, TXT, all of these are doing great work and making their mark globally.

Why do you find them interesting?

BTS promotes concepts such as ‘Love yourself’ which is very crucial for society. Nowadays, people lack acceptance about themselves and each other. The idea that each one of us is special, is relevant now, more than ever. The band also called out racial abuse and anti-Asian hate, recently. These are important global issues and I feel connected with them. Similarly, Blackpink, another K-pop band of 4 girls is now gaining popularity. Through their songs, they empower women. They promote ideas such as ‘I don’t care what you say about me, I will follow my path’ not in an aggressive but a positive manner.  

In India too, we have a great music scene. But do you feel that these ideas are missing in it?

Yes, very much. I feel that we have mastered Indian music through ideas, technique, emotions and lyrics. However, if we begin to tie issues of global importance to these, it will be impactful. Indian music has the ability to reach the world and our cinema is already making strides due to the range of topics and themes that are upcoming.  

Do you think pop culture influences the youth?

Yes. The youth feels connected with what they see. They learn and pick mannerisms, behaviours from what is shown to them. Therefore, promoting positive messages through pop culture is necessary.

Which is the last book you read?

‘What Happened at Midnight’ by The Hardy Boys – Mystery series. Its storyline fascinated me.

Your career ambition?

I want to become a chef.

Writing tips for students?

Research the topics well. Stay updated with the latest developments. Don’t pen down things you aren’t sure of. Attempt to make an impact and be topical.