What is the legacy of BTS, the world’s biggest boyband?
As they announce a break, they leave behind contradictions
One pre-pandemic estimate put the annual economic impact of bts, a South Korean boyband, at $3.7bn a year, making them the most valuable pop act ever. Wherever they go, the seven members sprinkle gold dust on clothing, cosmetics, tourism and food. Ahead of their first tour since the pandemic, stadium concerts in Seoul, Los Angeles and Las Vegas sold out in minutes.
This article appeared in the Asia section of the print edition under the headline “Exit stage left”
From the June 25th 2022 edition
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America v China: who controls Asia’s internet?
Amid an explosive data and AI boom the superpower contest hots up
China is using an “anaconda strategy” to squeeze Taiwan
Taiwan’s navy commander warns that his forces are increasingly strained
America is losing South-East Asia to China
President Joe Biden will not attend this year’s East Asia Summit
India has a unique opportunity to lead in AI
Its development will be unlike China’s or America’s
Japan’s new prime minister is his own party’s sternest critic
This could make it harder for Ishiba Shigeru to govern effectively
Ishiba Shigeru will become Japan’s next prime minister
The maverick won his fifth bid for leadership of the ruling party