K-Pop icons BTS have fronted up to some online backlash received over their decision to perform in Saudi Arabia.
The boyband announced the show – part of their ‘Love Yourself’ world tour – back in July and the decision was immediately met with criticism, with fans voicing their disappointment in the band performing in a country well known for anti-LGBTQIA+ attitudes, as well as a history of mistreatment of women.
This is such a bad business move this is really a big fuck you Saudi women, lgbtq fans but also to Muslim fans especially what happening in Yemen … doesn’t this contradict their message? Of love yourself?? Lol
— HORIYA| (@HORIYAXO) July 14, 2019
In a new interview with The Hollywood Reporter, BTS have acknowledged that the decision to tour in Saudi Arabia was not an easy one to make.
“I wouldn’t say it was easy.” leader RM said.
“But we were officially invited. It’s been a while since we’ve performed in the Middle East – I guess the last time was 2015 in Dubai.”
According to fellow BTS member Jimin, the decision also was a fan-focused one.
“To put it simply, if there’s a place where people want to see us, we’ll go there. That’s how we really feel.”
