BTS, also known as the Bangtan Boys, is a South Korean boy band formed in 2010. Their music achievements include multiple American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, Golden Disc Awards, and nominations for five Grammy Awards. But their influence has gone way beyond that.
The song, Run BTS, was first released in June 2022, and the dance choreography was released later in December on YouTube as the band’s dance practice video. This video has drawn 75 million views for the past 3 months and generated positive reviews at large for the outstanding choreography, and high-level synchronization and energy in performance.
Not everyone can sing, but everyone can dance.
The generosity of the band made it possible for fans to learn every move in that video, and encouraged imitation and practice. It’s a part of the movement on YouTube called “K-pop in public”. Fans from all over the world submitted their group dance videos following the same choreography. And so far, my favorite is the group from Barcelona.
Without leading with generosity and understanding, no matter how remarkable the band or the song is, it’s challenging to imagine a movement at this scale.
