On November 20th, the Korean Committee for UNICEF (Secretary General Lee Ki-Cheol) released a short video of BTS in celebration of the 5th anniversary of BTS’ ‘Love Myself campaign. The ‘Love Myself’ campaign started in November 2017 with the signing of a social contribution agreement between UNICEF Korean Committee and Big Hit Music. UNICEF (United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund) is a UN-affiliated organization that carries out projects in health, nutrition, water and sanitation, education, protection and emergency relief for children around the world.
All seven members were grouped together and spoke one by one.
First, RM started by saying, “The ‘Love Myself’ campaign began in 2017 and is celebrating 5 years this year.” He continued, "many people have naturally become to think of 'Love Myself' in various moments during the day whether it is feeling happy or sad.”
Jin looked back, saying, “Whenever I have worries or need to take a break in my daily life, ‘Love Myself’ springs up and gives me the strength to overcome and continue to move on.”
Suga said, “however, some people around the world still do not know how to love themselves.”
J-Hope continued, "Therefore, we are constantly working hard to convey the meaning of 'Love Myself.’ We ask you to look around and send out the message of hope.”
Jimin encouraged, "As we celebrate the 5th anniversary of our campaign, I want to remind you of the true meaning of 'Love Myself.’”
V said, “Loving myself is the beginning of true love.”
Jungkook added, "It is almost the end of a year. I hope that everyone can wrap up the year in a meaningful way by looking back to see if you have loved yourself enough, and if you have shared the warmth with those around you in life.”
RM concluded by saying, “Please continue to join us on this continuous journey so that we can create positive energy in the daily lives of more people.” All 7 members of BTS chanted “Love Myself” together, and the video clip ended.
Since the start of the campaign in 2017, a total of 5.9 billion won (as of October 2022) was donated to the Korean Committee for UNICEF by BTS and Big Hit Music through campaigns like ‘Love Myself’ and album profits.
In 2018 and 2020, BTS actively took their role to spread the message of the importance to love yourself in various speeches including the UN General Assembly, concerts, interviews and even talk shows.
Lee Ki-Cheol, secretary-general of the Korean Committee for UNICEF, said, “Korea has made two major achievements over the past 60 years. The first is democracy and economic development. It would not be an understatement to say the second is the birth of BTS.” He continued, “I hope that the positive influence of BTS will continue to grow and spread even further.”
