Love this, aside from the obvious immense talent, what drew me to BTS is their emotional intelligence, their openness, their vulnerability at times as well as their integrity and authenticity. Western culture (mine) could learn a lot. Especially western men!

You're right!! Shippers don't see that Skinship is part of Korean Culture and keeps on creating fantasies. It's alright as long as your not Toxic. But whom am I kidding, Toxicity has always been a big part of this shipping things. Even BTS members receive a lot ton of hate for not following the shippers narrative. It's just so terrible to see them being bashed on just for being themselves.. These toxic people can go touch some grass. I am really excited for JM &Jk travel vlog!! Let's support and protect our BTS till eternity. 💜💜♾️

"What's contributing to the toxicity is not the skinship, it is their brains." Amen!

I truly think that sharing this part of themselves with their fans is beautiful. I wish people would stop digging for things to be outraged about.

Skinship is to me, a beautiful & inspiring part of Korean and other cultures. Affection is good! And yes, our world DOES need a hug! 💞💜💞

Thank you for this! I think that we in the West have been over-sexualized. The sad part is that we truly are starved for affection but we can’t freely give or receive it because of how it would be perceived.

I do mostly agree with you but watching the variety shows and how often they like to make the idols play the peppero game or the one with the paper to make them kiss and then do the gay panic is a bit weird. I think kpop companies are very aware of the spending power of their audience and like to allow these motions to flourish on our minds. That said, the idea that none of these idols could possibly be gay would also be statically silly. A lot of the shippers like to speculate about what idols are thinking and their intentions, which you just can't do, but pay attention and you spot the interactions that hit different/don't make sense in context. It gives nobody any right to attempt to blow up these people's lives - beyond providing support, whether idols are gay or not should be irrelevant if we are truly fans 🤷🏽‍♀️🖤💜

So. Look I am fully aware of fan service and skin ship. Though most of what you see in Asian culture is typical among men. They hug, they hold hands, and yes they will even sleep in the same bed. It’s their culture! Many Asian countries will promote and push fan service and skin ship. We see it with kdrama, bl series, and yes kpop. They do this to increase interest and popularity. Though not typical in western culture it was tried with one direction. The problem is fans don’t recognize it as cultural and some fan service. They believe it to be true. Which some companies want that. Reality is this. It can go to far. Take two actors from a very successful drama. Untamed. The fans were so sure they were a couple it caused an incident. So bad that the government stepped in. Remember this country is anti gay. They were forbidden to act together again or seen in public ever again. Their friendship was ruined and it can’t be mended. Two bl actors though play gay are straight in real life. Fans believed they were a couple.One announced his engagement and fans went off. Sending death threats to his fiancé and blasting him. He took to social media and told fans that they were delusional and needed professional help. Then we have bts. Look I am a member of the gay community. The one and only right we have is the right to come out on our terms. When, how, and with who. So say they are gay. Shippers took that away from them by broadcasting it over social media. Not right. Say they aren’t gay. So without proof or confirmation you decided their preference for them. In a country that does not recognize gay rights. Not only are you embarrassing them and their families but could cause them hate, bullying, and harassment. Not to mention they are going into miltary in an anti gay country. Shipping can be fun and harmless but when you step over the line and decide who they are to be, who they can love, who they can have as friends, etc. you have become dangerously delusional.

Thank you for this video 💜. It's needed when we see how artists' lives are threatened by the madness of toxic fans. This video won't help shippers because the problem comes from their brain. They will always see what they want to see. But it can help other fans to stop exhausting themselves in pointless wars. It educates Westerners about culture and behavior so that they don't fall into the trap of misinterpretation. The bond between the members of BTS is exceptional, and some of the duos and trios are particularly close. I'm thinking in particular of Jimin and Jung Kook, who also share the same hometown. And also the Maknae line, which is very close-knit. It's a pity that these genuine bonds give rise to so much hatred. For me, shippers and toxic fans are people who need therapy. I think they really do have a mental problem.

Thank you for a very good post on this topic. I agree with what you have said and loved what you said about maligning one culture because someone applies their culture to the culture of someone else in a negative light. Very disrespectful and the west (i live in the west) does this often and especially as it applies to the western view of K-pop. I so agree the world needs more hugs and physical affection. I notice the shippers do view a shipped couple through their own lens and interpret actions based on that lens. I love how Jimin stated he does not like fanservice or being fake. His actions of skinship and affection are real. To your point some of it may be exaggerated for the “cameras” but does not mean the affection is not real. It also does not mean any of the members are involved in a romantic relationship. If any of the members are, that is their business and not ours. I agree the company is not forcing the members to do fan service. We can look at two opposites in the group, Jimin and Yoongi. Jimin is very affectionate and Yoongi is not. It does not take away from how much Yoongi cares for all members. He is just not the skinship type and barely participates in it. That tells me the company is not forcing 26-30 year old men to practice skinship for the cameras. It is just the culture of the members that is being shown and sometimes exaggerated for the cameras.

I so respect your intelligent and thoroughly researched approach to covering Asian entertainment. I am enamored with the Korean culture in that it seems to capture a level of friendship, camaraderie and affection that I crave in my own life. I love that among Koreans, community is more valued than individuality, and that engaging in affectionate interaction among men is the norm. I too believe that the world needs hugs! My concern is that in a time when social media so blatantly evaluates, speculates, demeans, shames, and sculpts society, misinformed attitudes and judgements may actually affect or change the natural interaction between Korean men and slowly erode what I see as a very beautiful cultural attribute. It would be sad if that were ever to change. As far as BTS is concerned, their intimacy, affection, bond and brotherhood are enviable. How many of us are privileged enough to experience that in our lives? Questioning whether or not there are romantic relationships among the members is neither here nor there. What would it matter? Maliciously “reporting” perceived same sex relationships among them is immature, spiteful and could even put members at risk. How small and inconsequential their life must be for a person to do that? Again, thank you for your videos. I always find myself being enriched by them.

When I first got into the kpop world or rather bts, I was really shocked by how amorous they were with each other and really thought they were gay and open about it, but then finding more about the culture I found out it is normal for straight men to be touchy with each other and not only jokingly and that the country is actually very homophobic. And when they are actually gay they are very very discreet and only show affection in private. Some demonstrations of affection still catch me out of guard but I try to not be ignorant and assume things, it would be very sad if they can't be themselves because international fans aren't used to their culture, people need physical affection and they are not getting it from their parents or siblings or girlfriends.

I also have that same theory that shippers don’t want the guys to be with any other woman than them so they ship them with the other members because that feels safe. But one of the things that I love about BTS is the fact that they are men who are able to show their affection towards each other and towards their fans. I’m really getting tired of toxic masculinity, and I think it needs to vamoose. I think that if more men had the kind of love support that the guys of BTS have for each other, then people all over the world would be so much healthier. The world DOES need a big hug now!! on another note, what the hell are people thinking Sending such malicious notices to the military about Jungkook and Jimin? That’s slander! Are they purposely trying to make it hard for these guys in the military, that’s so mean spirited! I think those people need to get a life.

Appreciate you for making this. It’s great to get clarity and understanding for one’s culture. I hate the toxic environment that surrounds it.

Thanks for the video. I want to give a nuanced point of view from a shipper. This is my opinion. Please don’t throw shade at me if you disagree. Not all shippers are a like. Some are toxic and many are not. 1. No, I don’t want to date or marry any idols. I hope they have wonderful relationships with people they care about. 2. I am not delusional. I don’t have any personal information about them; therefore, I am fully aware that any speculations I have about them are just speculations. 3. I usually only discuss shipping with other shippers because people who don’t ship tend to want to treat me poorly and assign motives, such as I want to date them that I don’t have. 4. Why do I ship? It is fun. I enjoy great relationships and BTS have great relationships with each other. My bias, Park Jimin, appears to have the ability to be mentally and emotionally connected to people he bonds to and watching a collage of videos showing his interactions puts me in a positive mood. It helps to deal with a lot of negativity that is floating around. I ship him with everyone. He is the ideal friend that you wished everyone could have. I watch shipping videos that focus on Park Jimin. 5. Do I think he may have a romantic relationship with a member? I think it sometimes but I am well aware that I don’t know his personal life and it is speculation. 6. Shippers do a lot to promote artists. We view videos, make comments, spread the joy we feel about an artist or artists. As long as we do it in good taste, and ensure our action don’t do harm to the artist, I think it is okay. 7. Final point. I don’t support toxic shipping. I don’t make up stories. I don’t splice videos to give the wrong impression. I don’t refer to any shipping when they are on a live. They are wonderful people that I respect. I would appreciate all non shippers to not lump all shippers together as toxic, delusional people.

this is cringe beyond words 🤬!! Who the h is sending these complains in order to harm any artist.

Most Shippers require help they see what they want to see, they assume things they make things up in their own little fantasy world and can't view anything within putting into their fantasy.

I think most of the men and some women in the west could learn a lot from the Korean culture. There are so many people in the west that probably have not had a hug or human touch in years. That can make for a very depressed, angry or lonely person. Everyone craves some sort of physical affection and if you are not dating or married imagine the lack of human touch you would have. Intimacy is not just for sexual relationships. Men in the west are probably afraid of how it would be perceived to show this sort of intimacy but it is huge thing lacking in our culture. The bond and friendship BTS has is so satisfying to watch because so many don’t have that or only when we were in school. Anyone who can’t see it’s a cultural thing has not been paying attention or only wants to see what they choose to.

I like that "The world needs a hug". so true. Thank you for this. For pointing out a simple, and I think beautiful, truth.💜 Personally, I don't understand why people don't get it. I've tried telling people that skinship is a natural, and common, part of Korean culture. That being physically affectionate with someone just means you are close to them. Like being affectionate with your family. Only to be told that I was denying the truth. All you can do is shake your head, and move on. I think being free to show you care about someone is a beautiful thing. And something we should all feel free to do. And I love watching it; and it just makes me smile. And sometimes it makes the day feel a little brighter. And I love to see how in tune with each other they are. How they so often can tell when someone NEEDS a hug; and how willing they are to provide that comfort and support. And isn't that something we can all use in our lives, sometimes.💜 So I say "Embrace Skinship", it's a beautiful, and honest, expression of affection and friendship.💜

Thank you for bringing up this subject. Watching the numerous videos with some or all BTS members in the beginning, I was surprised by their open and strong affection for each other. I wasn’t used to it. Boys or men in my western country don’t show their bond like this. Many years ago during my first visit to Turkey I saw soldiers walking hand in hand and learned this was normal and natural behavior. They were friends like only soldiers can be. BTS members must have a similar bond knowing their history. As you explained it is even their culture to interact like this. I didn’t know that. Showing their affection for each other like they do is actually very touching. I respect and love them more because of this. Insinuations about their sexuality became annoying, felt offensive and weird. Please let people be and don’t look for something that isn’t there at all. And yes everything on screen looks bigger but it’s not up to us to make it even bigger or worse to invent a different meaning.

Great video as always! I’m Italian and affection is 2nd nature to my family and friends. I hug just about everybody I know and even give hugs upon meeting people for the first time. People who haven’t any affection in their lives or condemn others who do, then twist it to be something wrong or misconstrued, is really just sad. 😔 I never understood “shipping”. For this to even be a thing, with a name, is just bizarre to me. Who cares, is how I look at it! Why make everything something? I believe it’s just to be heard or part of something. Even if it’s not true or real. Because they are nothing in their real lives and don’t try to be. You’re absolutely right that it’s their brain. And there’s no fixing ignorance. These are the kind of people who live a sad existence. They judge without thinking beyond their own nose and keyboard. Which is again, sad. 😔

Living across various cultures and industries, I am more surprised and saddened by people's reaction and animosity than Kpop's. It shows that despite internet and travel, few people have come to realise what is their own social imprint. My first light bulb moment was in my teens, watching 2 budding friends talking and how one kept closing the physical distance between the 2 and the other kept stepping back: social distancing were opposite! I laugh at the reaction when an artist lifts a shirt because in Australia where I live now, it's so hot that most men will easily go shirtless. My rule is: if both are happy with it and understand it for what it is, then it's fine. The rest of the world needs to grow up! As for projections, I agree totally. IMHO it is a sign that the relationship has started to become toxic, degenerating to immaturity, emotional dependency and possessiveness. Men need the revolution women had beyond the social shackles of expectations they were put in. If Kpop can help them feel more at ease physically, in friendship and bonding (as found already in some professions), I am all for it! BTS eg is a great role model of how powerful synergy can be rather than rabid competition.

I appreciate the cultural perspective, but I'm also wondering if you're implying that there are no gay K-Pop idols? Or gay Koreans? I understand that many fans conflate some actions of idols as more intimate or romantic than might be warranted, I also think some idols understand the power of skinship and engage in it in an intentional way, but that doesnt mean that some very real intimate connections are only cultural or skinship. You mentioned male physical affection existed before the conception of Queerness was functionally understood by Koreans...I would posit that gay men existed in Korean culture, even if not understood to be queerness, as long as any other culture. As a queer person myself, I'm sad if that is actually your perspective 😔 I think the actual conversation should focus on how to protect idols who might happen to be queer from homophobic fans. We know that BTS are LGBTQ Allies if nothing else, and although I dont know if any happen to be gay as well, if so being reported as gay to military officials can have a real life implications. Shouldn't we center the conversation around challenging WHY some people are concerned with the level of affection they see? So what if Jimin or Jungkook ARE gay, who calls the DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE to report that BEFORE they even step foot on a base? Homophobia is disgusting

I agree with you again. My grandson & his long time friends act the same way. They have known each other since toddlerhood & now headed to college. My other grandson is in a band and all the members sleep in the van together while traveling . It’s close quarters when starting out. And such shared experiences. I love the closeness of BTS family too. In the series “Daisy Jones & the six”. There was a comment. “ The fans want to believe that we are a couple so we have to pretend”. (Or something like that). I thought about that comment when thinking about those shippers. But normally I don’t pay attention to that subject. Personally, I love the Korean culture of closeness . I grew up in a house that did not hug until I was 20! How sad. In other cultures men kiss & hug each other too. Another good discussion. Thx

Jimin has faced extreme hatred from shippers & even death threats & one of those was only made last week by a Korean which was more worrisome than a lot of death threats. All have different bonds, some are more comfortable with more than others. Their bonds are being abused & members are being dragged.

Those who decided to say that Jimin and Jungkook are gay really need to STFU if the are or aren't it's no one's business but their own whether they are or are not. Bigots, sick minded individuals who require mental health professionals and some life lessons.

I think it's super important to make the distinction that not all shipping is toxic and that anti-shipping sentiments can be as toxic as "toxic shipping". Shipping wars are toxic (and that's mostly what was described in this video, but there are plenty of shippers who don't go around proselytizing their ship or denouncing anyone else's). Directly raising questions or making suggestive comments to idols themself is toxic. On the flipside, anti-shippers vehemently arguing "They're not gay!" or "Stop being gross!" is homophobic and toxic and assumes things about the idols that we simply don't know. Unless an idol has explicitly said anything, you can't assume their sexuality. Just because they answered an interview question asking them to describe their ideal "girl", that is NOT confirmation of heterosexuality. And the outrage some fans have at the suggestion their favorite idol might be LGBTQ only makes the world that much more dangerous for any idols to come out at any future point that they might want to. Ultimately, it's no one's business. Gay, straight, or anything in between, idols have every right to keep that private. Especially given the nature of the industry they're in and especially male idols who haven't completed their service yet. I think it's also worth considering that skinship exists differently between cultures because of how different cultures perceive homosexuality. Is there a correlation between South Korea having more skinship and South Korea also being conservative when it comes to homophobic sentiments? Are boys freer to be physically affectionate in South Korea because there's no fear of being labeled gay among peers, because being gay is too taboo to throw around as an unfounded aspersion? Or maybe they like to pretend gay people don't exist, so it would never occur to them to think there's anything romantic about how two boys hug and kiss? If such a correlation exists, then shippers may be perceiving something that someone who has internalized the non-existence or wrongness of gayness does not.

Hot topic! I don’t favor shipping unless the artists themselves have said so themselves that they are gay and or that they are in relationships w another same sex male. Shippers are disrespectful to their artists by accusing them wrongfully or outing them when they don’t want to be outed. In Vietnamese culture, two girls can hold hands or even hold on to each other walking down the street and neither are gay or even think about it as anything sexual at all. Cultures are different. To write fan fictions about them having gay porn or romances are so wrongful to the artists but if you keep that to yourself as you do with your other fetishes then ok fine but to keep pushing those narratives online and worse, creating a whole push publicly about their homosexuality when it has been just your assumptions is slander and a crime. It is because of these toxic shippings that creates wrongful accusations. So Jimin and Jungkook can’t travel together without having a sexual relationship? Some Korean woman even threatened to kill Jimin bcz in her mind, he was going after JK and she beleives JK is straight and only got pressured from Jimin to do gay acts. That is what shipping created. I mean to find the smallest things in photos as proofs that they are in gay relationship is just nuts. I mean having a piece of clothing at your friend’s house means that you are having sex w that person? NOOOOOO It is wrong to ship. It is no different to call someone you don’t know in your personal life gay and announce it to everyone around you when you do not know yourself. Doing it to celebs is just as wrong. Thank you for having a video to discuss of this topic.

I totally agree it’s part of their culture. I have just spent 6 weeks I. South Korea and we stayed a couple of days with a friends parents. I am a Silver Army and have a heart condition and her father would take my hand and guide me everywhere. He and his wife thought nothing of it, to them it was him helping a friend but you would rarely see that happen in our Western Society. I saw older ladies walking arm in arm and younger girls and saw men being openly affectionate without batting an eye. It was wonderful to see a warm and loving people interact with each other. Having grown up loving everyone from the Beatles onwards I have never understood shippers or why any fan of an idol would become so obsessive of them having a relationship with another man instead of dreaming they would be with them. To me it makes no sense but maybe that’s my age. Anyway lovely breakdown of the issue and it would be nice if these shippers understood the culture and accepted it more. 💜

Hallelujah!!!! Thank you, thank you!!!!! IM so tired of these people pushing love triangles and made up stories based on one frame or edit, and trying to influence your opinion, then you get insulted for making a comment that doesn’t follow their agenda. Is infuriating watching people attack the boys because of these toxic comments. The BTS members act like brothers that love and protect each other. There are a lot of people that will benefit from watching them on how they treat each other. All cultures are different. Before making assumptions learn their culture so you can make an educated comment.

Lord, I hope this video goes viral.

Shippers were once asked why they ship....and some admitted that they do it because they would rather "see BTS members with each other than with a woman who is not them". That statement has so much to unpack but it falls inline with what is being shared in this video. And to be honest, it is hard for me to get upset over someone who's self image and esteem is so harmful and distorted that their view of someone else has the same damaging results.

Thank you so much for this information, now I totally understand why BTS and Korea people are so close. 💜💜💜

Skinship is an interaction between individuals. It is both normal and admirable. Shipping is using two peoples interactions and creating a fantasy. In and of itself, fantasy is not a bad thing When it becomes part of a public narrative and indeed becomes integrated into commercial endeavors which both monetize the shipper and potentially stigmatize the shipped parties by organizing people into a train of thought then it becomes libelous and amoral. I get even bad forms of behavior won't be stopped because they monetize a lot of parties but publicly proposing group members are secretly gay both is an invasion of privacy and an offensive use of a class designation called outing. Skinship never is an excuse for such offensive behavior.

I had sad experience with the clash of culture of UK roots and mine. In mine, normal expressions of filial love and trust are that friends of the same gender hold hands while walking, hug or sleep together, dress and undress together, share clothing. None is allowed in UK based culture So, back in the mid 1980s, a friend and I walked together holding hands; both of us recently arrived from our places of origin with similar culture, so we thought nothing of it. A coworkers saw us and reported us to our supervisor. We both lost our jobs on the spot, for our public behaviour. Such discrimination was still allowed then. No once were we given the opportunity to explain ourselves, and I doubt very much anyone would have believed that we weren’t lesbians. Bcse of that experience, what shipers do doesn’t surprise me. They aren’t just delusional, their understanding of filial love is limited to what is “proper behaviour”; expressions of love are limited to words, never touch, never hug; any physical expression is thought to be sexual lust.

The craziest part dealing with shippers is that they are very denial. They will claim that they just love the interaction, then they would criticize the other shippers, and yet they will think their ship is the most uneffortable ship. They would say they dont need proof for their ship because the idols already ship themselves, not realizing that the shippers actually just in their head so much. Ugh i just really hate shippers! They are crazy and they need to go to asylum

Telling celebs, in this case idols, that they can or can't be affectionate is unhealthy. Telling them that your cultural practices and understanding of their cultural practices is the right one, is arrogant. Assuming it is queer baiting because someone wants to condemn what they don't understand is very, very toxic. Shipping is a slippery slope. It can be cute, but it can also go over the top. Idols are humans, and they do live primarily in homosocial conditions, and the comfort they need may most easily come from their band members. I can argue that it is not the idols who are toxic, it is outside agencies, it is the company if they are ordering it, or FANS who react with crazy.

I want to add another layer to the “skinship = relationship” thought process of shippers. I have seen many readily acknowledge that skinship between same gender participants exists, but it’s more excessive, heightened, and “different”. Also, skinship, for whoever they’re shipping, is an easy cover for a relationship that would be negatively viewed by wider society. So if YOU don’t accept the possibility that their affectionate touches mean more then YOU’RE homophobic. It doesn’t help that same gender shippers are often countered by fans who state with absolute authority that the members are opposite gender attracted ONLY; in actuality both are assuming something that is none of our business. I have also seen them use examples of trainees or lesser known boy group members who had their same gender relationships exposed as evidence that inter-group same gender relationships are possible. I’m not saying it’s impossible; I’m just saying it’s not my business to investigate, obsess over with analysis, or fight over with random people on the internet. Another thing that I’ve observed with shippers is the same thing I observed with some fans who decry racism against their favorite Asian idols- they’re big time hypocrites. I’ve been attacked by anti-Black ARMYs who will easily defend K-pop idols against racist attacks. In that same vein, so many shippers are deeply queerphobic and attack other members that are “in competition” with their ship with slurs, transphobia, misgendering, and slutshaming stereotypes. There’s more to the conversation here but I don’t think leaving a think piece under your comments is helpful lol. To kind of sum it up- I don’t know if same gender shipping to this extent is a product of boy band culture, the men being involved are overwhelmingly Asian, or both. What I can say for sure is that I’m invested in the relationship my favorite artist has cultivated with me and the fandom, rather than being invested interpersonal relationships that have nothing to do with me. The camera lens that I see them through is not their whole world, nor is it mine. Making assumptions and fighting tooth and nail for those assumptions has to be an exhausting endeavor when we are only afforded a glimpse, a fraction of a fraction, into their lives. What we think we know is nothing compared to what they actually know, and as a fan I can’t do anything else but be satisfied by that.

I completely agree with you about why shippers ship. I absolutely think it's immaturity and with that, jealousy (another immature emotion). As an older ARMY, it's actually the part of the fandom that bothers me. Just grow up, let them do whatever they want, and enjoy their music and messaging. My $.02 FWIW.

For me being non-Korean Jimin and Jungkook are a little bite more bonded then the others that may go back as early as pre-debut like when you're in elementary and it's that one friend that's very close to you all the way up to high school they was very close from the start. People think to deep in my opinion. Relax😊

I noticed from K-dramas that the older sibling or friend often acts more like a parent to the younger person. So if you think of their actions it makes more sense. Like the hugging, bum patting and feeding.

They kissing on the cheek we often do that here in the UK hugs and kiss on the cheek isn't seen as anything but normal behaviour. How many of my female friends did I kiss on the cheek and give a hug to or support when they were upset by hold their hand or putting my arm around. I've lost count it's just normal here. Some people are more touchie feelie than others I see it the same behaviour with male friends who have known each other for years or grown up with each others. No one's give's out strange looks or say oh they must gay or anything like that. People will even feed each other here but with a different spoon or folk or even use their fingers to feed someone, they will share water bottles. So for me to see other's doing the same from different culture's doesn't make me think they are in a romantic relationship they could simply be great friends or brothers or helping someone eg hold the hand of someone when crossing a busy street therefore guiding that person safely to the other side of the road.

Very nice synopsis and insight into the “shipping” of K-Pop artists.

Thank you for another detailed analysis of k pop culture. 💕

Heck they may be having the show because they need the extra supervision on them from all the hate and threats! You never know what happens behind the scenes. Jimin in particular has so many videos made about how he turns guys gay- he may actually be in danger from someone with internalized homophobia.🤷🏻‍♀️ Doesn’t mean they’re a couple. Even if they were, it’s nobody’s business.🤦🏻‍♀️

Exactly!!!!!

The strangest thing I heard a young female member of the LBGQ+ community who was a stanch shipper say was that queer singers should not sing songs about straight love. That they would be booed in the community. Even if a singer hasn’t said they are gay and we’re just thought to be gay the songs have to be taken as portraying gay love. Which to my mind would limit what any artist can do. A good singer can sing a song and let the audience interpret it to suit their ideal. Idk I just thought it was sad that she would limit artist’s repertoire like that.

Thanks for making this video. It's everything I want to say to the shippers whenever I see someone shipping any two members, Unfortunately, like you said they will ship anyway for their own satisfaction and they will not click on videos like this. It's annoying because I'm not Korean and I figured it out within a year of getting into Kpop. If I figured it out I don't see why they can't. You are right. It's really beautiful to see and the country I live in can learn a thing or two. Maybe then, boys won't grow up feeling alone and taking it out on others.

The point is .... they could or could not be gay BUT unless they explicitly say so we cant use skinship as a clue because skinship is apart of their culture. The physical contact we see them do would mean that you are gay in the west but it doesnt necessarily mean that in their culture. That is all!

I really appreciate your views regarding this topic. While watching and listening to you, I realized watching BTS closeness and their dynamic relationship it helped me understand and have an open mind and not to get malicious about things like the Bangtan relationship towards each other...It's really so refreshing and admirable as well. Again, Thank you.

How are you not a Sociology Professor at a University specializing in South Korean culture and media? Love your insightful videos and encourage you to also start a podcast inviting other influencers, academias and media professionals to create dialogue with you on some of these topics. 😍

I find this video interesting. But I do wonder about one thing. Skinship is cultural in South Korea, I know that. But it also seems like the most fantatic shippers are actually from South-Korea or other countries where skinship is more normal. From my encounter with shippers, most of them are from countries that are conservative and LBGTQ is not accepted. So that makes me wonder, because it seems a contradiction. To on one have this normal custom and on the other hand, having the most fanatical and toxic shippers both. If it was Westeners putting their ideas on k-pop idols, I can understand. But it is the k-pop fans who are the most die-hard shippers.

This was very confusing to me when I first got into BTS, culture shock. My daughter explained the culture is very different, much like you're explaining now, it took sometime but I see and understand it is different and know that it's okay to be different. What I don't understand, isn't "shippers" Korean? I didn't understand this term either and confused that there are so MANY shippers and very surprised at how toxic it is, I just at the beginning thought it was part of entertainment but quickly saw how toxic it became and quit trying to figure things out....lol. I do understand the cultures are different and am okay with it being different. I still love BTS' music!! Thank you so much for sharing.

Like you, I've always felt that shippers really want the members for themselves, but know they can't have them so project their fantasy of having a relationship with one member on another member. Somethings twisted.

🚨The toxic ones sending those letters to the Ministry should be kept responsible for infamation, slender, sexual accusation etc in the court! #HYBE, are you taking ACTION to protect artists from those criminals ?????

I hope 'shippers' don't think that all physical expressions of affection have a sexual implication, or the only reason to show affection is for sexual reasons?

I wish many armies would watch your clip. It is so true.

I agree with you regarding your take on the shipper mentality. I've always thought that is was driven by the thought that "if member A is in love with member B then I can't compete with that." In that case, it's not about whether or not their bias finds them desirable because he doesn't find ANY girl desirable. Anything counter to that causes them to mentally and emotionally short circuit because now they feel like they have to compete with every girl in their bias' orbit. It's hard to talk people out of that kind of delusion. They either have to grow out of it or get professional help to navigate their way out of it.

I wish all the shippers and haters would do what I just did right now. Because look how much wiser I just became, in just about 17 minutes. It all just makes a lot more sense now. To start with and before I got to know BTS properly, I also believed a bit in the gay theory about some of the members in BTS, because as much skinship as they give each other can mean that you are gay in my culture. But I noticed over time that there is skinship among all of them in the group and I also noticed that other kpop groups also have a lot of skinship. So instead I began to understand that they are probably just very close. Which makes sense when you think about how much time the members are together. BTS, for example, have worked together, lived and learned a lot from each other since 2013, and as they themselves have said, they are more like family, precisely because they have been together so much and for so many years. Now your video has taught me that skinship is part of their culture. So it makes so much more sense that maybe there is more skinship between BTS because it is both because of the culture and because they are so close together like a family. I actually wish that part of the culture was a thing worldwide. The idea that they are not afraid to kiss their friend on the cheek, back hug, hold hands or feed each other without others immediately misunderstanding and thinking. Oh he/she is gay. The world needs hugs! Thank you for the useful knowledge and for making me so much wiser and giving me a better understanding of a very fascinating culture! 💜

Thank you for this video! I have always found the deep affection and skinship the BTS members share amongst themselves to be heart warming and gives me more hope for mankind! Indeed, we all need more hugs, now more than ever. By the way, I am a 77 year old American grandmother. BTS, their music and interactions all warm my heart and make me smile! Much love, warm hugs to all! 💜

Thank you for talking about this. As I understand Korean culture, In a meeting honestly disgusted by the malicious interpretations romantic shippers put on almost anything and everything. You are right. The problem is in the mind. I hate that something so precious like brotherly love/ friendship is turned into something sexual. KPop fans should grow up.

You hit the nail on the head with Kpop & kdramas showing the WORLD what affection can look like in a romantic and/or fraternal way. For too long, toxic friendships ala Housewives of ___ and trashy dramas like Fleishman or Euphoria are pumped out by tv networks and people really start to think those behaviors are normal! After discovering BTS & many kdramas (not all), I find my emotional intelligence is better supported and fellow fans are mostly kind, generous & moral people. Sadly, toxic shipping is a result of people that like to turn amazing things weird, and this happens a lot...fun destroyers... Like why can't we have nice things 😂😭

I love this video because there is so much toxicity. I will confess that I'm a light shipper, meaning I like the idea of a couple of members together but I'm not delusional. I know it's possible (it has happened in other groups) but they're probably not together. I have one question. The idea that failing to understand Korean culture and kinship explains why Western Stans see it and misunderstand it, but why do so many Korean fans see it as more? They assumable grew up witnessing this kind of kinship. Is it, like you said, that they want the member for themselves, or is there something else at play?

Another great video. Thankyou AE. I think the closeness and warmth of Korean culture is a beautiful thing. Many could do well to nurture such compassion and love in relationships. 💜

I love this, we share the same brain cells regarding shippers. I like the topics that you are tackling but of course my favorite is about BTS and from time to time SB19. Thank you.

Thank you for this video It really helps , i hope others can see this and understand the culture better

This content is one of the most significant information that you shared with us. Enriching. Thank you ❤

I love your videos. And today is no exception. I could not agree more with every point ypu made today!!! ❤

I will admit that when I first became aware of BTS and started enjoying their music and content, the skinship did take me by surprise. I quickly realized that it was pretty common, and I honestly thought it was cute how close the members were. Jimin quickly became my bias because I think he is an angel on earth. I have seen him shipped with every member at some because he has such sweet interactions with everyone. I don't do romantic shipping. I do not pretend to know their sexual preferences because I don't care, and it doesn't matter to me one way or another. I wish everyone felt the same way, but they don't. There are a lot of shippers in the fandom. They quickly take over comment sections. Sometimes, it seems like people are fans of the ship more than the artists. Because I watch a lot of Jimin content, I when I have seen hateful comments directed towards Jimin, 95% of the time, it is from a TKK or a JK solo stan. Ppl who believe he is trying to break up their ship or insisting that JK is straight. If they were gay and wanted us to know, we would. If they aren't disclosing that personal information, why do others feel it is their right to do so on their behalf? We shouldn't assume one way or another. This includes people who scream that they are straight, too. You don't know, so don't act like you do. Just enjoy their interactions, and if you don't like what you see, then look away. It shouldn't matter to you either, and if it does, then you should reflect on why that is.

Hello, I love your content. I really like your approach to the topics you address. One of the things I love about learning about other countries is the culture. Especially the differences. I always appreciate seeing how people relate to each other in different countries. I was lucky my mother felt it was important to understand people's cultures differ around the world, so I grew up in a mixed community. So upon becoming an Army and KPOP fan, I didn't see anything wrong with boy bands being so close with each other. After all, that is what I do with my close friends.

Thank-you for making this video, part of what draws me to BTS, and K-dramas is a new version of what it means to be a man - far from the more common toxic masculinity I’ve seen growing up (I’m 54), I find the shipping wars disappointing so I’m thankful for your considered thoughts.

I was hoping in kpop i could escape the shipping that's rampant in anime. Little did i know... 😂😂😅

Really appreciate your channel. Common sense and honest opinions is so very refreshing. I have learned so much from you, thank you. People are so quick to interpret negatively instead of just enjoy the affection is shown. I would love a hug from BTS, they are my standard. Thank you again.

Thanks as always for your insights. I enjoy the open affections Koreans show to those closest to them. But in the world of Idols where media attention is so magnified, it can bring out haters, people insecure about their own sexual identity, and shippers jealous of Idol relationships as if they personally know the idol. These toxic fans are unhealthy, lonely and insecure within themselves. For most of us, being an Idol fan is fun, it feeds the fantasies and can be creatively fulfilling for old and young fans, whatever gender you identify with. But just remember along the way, promote tolerance and love for all❣️💕💜

I know, for sure, that the country culture you've grown up as a child can determine the adult behavior among the friends. In my country many adults have close relationships, and often go to each other houses, hang up, hugs a lot and kiss on the cheek. It is because what we saw and how we felt in our families and the friendly environment in our childhood. Also, my impression is that BTS members have a higher level of sensitivity and emphathy when it comes about the other members. That's because during the difficult period of the beginning of their journey in kpop. The 7 members could rely only on themselves. I mean, their families were away, Bang Pd, and Big Hit staff were strangers, even they were 7 strangers that was supposed to sleep in a small room. That's their beginning of the new family relationship. I think, even if their families would've been living in Seoul, they would prefer to keep their families away from their struggles and hardship in the industry and not giving them reasons to get worried, or more worried about their children. Those teenagers boys learned to rely on their own person and on other members to solve their problems. I know from my experience, that when you want to be careful with another person you will wach continuously and observe all reactions and at one moment you will know only looking at that person what feels, what wants, what's thinking. Sometimes I saw videos about so call couples in BTS and the things that they pointed out as being an example of desire, lust, or some kind of suspicious look between the boys, for me was really the support look or gesture that could confort one member during the speeches or interviews. We all know that they are not comfortable in public, they are comfortable on the stage and only when they are in full formation. I also think, that during the time together they passed from one to other the care of each member.

on another note is fascinating that same sex skinship is very natural and okay in SK culture and many other asian cultures while at the same time real life couples (mostly heteresexual) are very much private in their affections, and public displays of affections is very much frown upon. very weird never understood that.

Thanks for a in depth analysis of shipping ...bravo🎉🎉🎉

such an important and well spoken video! thank you! personally, I think the members showing affection towards one another is beautiful and so comforting to watch. I can't wait for Jimin and JK's variety show, that duo is always funny and spontaneous together! 💗

Thank you for the information on their culture. 💜

Thank you! As always for injecting some knowledge and sense into the madness of Kpop stan world. It’s their brains took me out 😂

Well said. 💜

Now we just need all the shippers to Watch this and Hear it! Thank You!

💛Romance doesn't always mean intimacy is present. 💚Intimacy isn't always expressed as sexuality. ❤Sexuality doesn't guarantee the existence of a relationship. 💙Relationship isn't the same as connection. 💜And connection is Divine for one's soul chooses it, while one's personality only feels it, doesn't create it - therefore it can't be unrealized! 💖 (Something I wrote many moons ago; it's meant to induce the deepest thought process). When (across countries, cultures, and continents) people's sexuality is not viewed or experienced as separate from their humanity, when all forms of intimacy are seen as the oxygen they are - without intimacy people simply can't survive - then and only then we wouldn't have to worry about Kpop idols (or any artists/celebrities) being disrespected, scrutinized, abused, and victimized because of their real or perceived sexualities. I am not saying that we will click our fingers and every single person who uses the misguided delusions of the hungry spirit inside of them to act in evil and toxic ways will miraculously disappear. But I believe in wholeness and integration, and that the work always starts in our backyard. BTS has taught, showed, and told us that whether we belong to Korean culture or Western culture, whether we are young or old, straight or gay, behave in kind or unconscious (unaware) ways, the path to change's focus is on our own being. Expansion of consciousness and demonstration of healthy relating are needed. Queer baiting wouldn't even be a phrase if mankind has no problems with queer (non-straight) people.

The company requires this to keep the shippers, gay men attracted to the band! They are from a different culture I’ve been saying this all along! They see nothing wrong with it because it’s normal in their country. So tired of people making Jimin like a Slu-!! It’s ridiculous that people think he’s with everyone in the group! 🙄 they will swear Taekook is real! I believe the guys get a kick out of it and pour it in actually making fun of these ignorant people

Well said. I agree. Thank you.

A timely explanation... nice👍 thank you💜❤️💜 I love BTS members being affectionate towards each other too much, it s healing for me and i agree the world needs such affection, compassion, tactfulness n love, to be displayed in its genuine, pure n true form, for those watching, take it at face value rather than trying to interpret too deep n complicate things. Be cool n be happy✌️

The Shippers that are so wedded to their POV make me think they are using it more to validate their own lives and choices than supporting the guys. I think the guys would be very saddened by the fans attacking other fans and also definitely for attacking the other band mate that the shipper thinks is interfering in the love lives of the shipped pair. The guys don’t want to alienate anyone and probably don’t mind playing a part in their fantasies or even playing to the fantasies. Performing and selling a song to a wider audience is not wrong.

Thank you for your explanations🙏

A wise man once said, "Those who cannot conceive of friendship as a substantive love but only as a disguise or elaboration of eros [romantic love] betray the fact that they have never had a friend." With this in mind I often feel sorry for shippers. It must be a sad life where a close friend cannot be simply a close friend. But really, anyone who is paying attention should be able to tell there is nothing romantic about the affection they show for each other. Romantic love is exclusive and jealous. But you can, if you want to, make videos of any two in BTS and make it look romantic. (Especially if you abuse slow motion!) If it really was romantic, that would be the farthest thing from possible. It would be only those two and no more. Seriously though, the world really does need a hug, and people need more affection than they receive, not less. Putting a culture on the main stage where affection is normal and common is nothing but a good thing if you ask me. More hugs for everyone! 💜

I have that same theory..i always said that, that is the motivation, have them all for them..😅😅😅

Tae jimin jk I feel sorry for them it must be embarrassing for them to see romance shippers putting them together I don’t like romance shippers

I very much agree that viewing another culture through your own culture's lens is very disrespectful. I personally grew up in a culture that's exceedingly macho and yet men hug and backslap with abandon. Finally, the point you made about the power of the mind is well met. You cannot talk someone out of their delusions; they will find a way to fit any discrepancy into their narrative willy nilly. I just wish shippers wouldn't attack others in real life to defend their fantasy.

Who are we to infringe on others cultural expressions? Let them be!

Thank you so much , in west and latin America ,too much touching , hugs cuteness, men or woman means something else you open my eyes and my heart (even more for bts ) much respect to all kpop artists . thank you much for info , !!!!

I agree with you. The shippers want them for themselves. ❤

Bravo, well said. 👏

Great video. I think it’s great that BTS share such a close bond. As it’s a cultural thing, of course they are going to turn to each other, it doesn’t mean anything sexual. I wish more people were like that. These guys have gone through so much together from the beginning, with only themselves to rely on. They are the only ones who know how that feels. Shippers are toxic even if they don’t think they are. I refuse to watch any videos that “ship” the guys. I’m an older fan and find “shipping”, especially straight men, baffling. They are a group of wonderful musicians and personalities. I love the positive messages they send out and I hope they are around for a long time. Looking forward to 2025 ❤

TBH, fan service for an uneducated Kpop beginner is truly confusing. It's not always that a person is homophobic, but they may just misunderstand the culture and the meaning of skinship within the industry. When members perpetuate the "myth" of couple relationships, beginners haven't a chance or clue figuring out if it's real. It would've been nice to have this type of video as an introduction to Kpop when I first became interested in BTS. It would have kept me from making so many foolish and erroneous comments about supposedly relationships between members. I truly insulted poor Jin while I was trying to show unwavering support about an "unreal relationship". Since it was five years ago, I'm hoping that I have been forgiven.

thank you for bringing this up and clearing everything using normal human logic and common sense. hahaha. so many people living in their own fantasy and being toxic. from what I see, BTS does breaking the toxic masculinity the western popularize by saying men should not show much emotion, saying I love you to each other, skin shipping or else you'll be labeled as queers. I love how BTS never afraid showing their genuine self and PDA . and their vulnerability, Namjoon said that is how he shows his love.. that you will show your vulnerability to those you trust. and yes, BTS is that trusting to their fans. Namjoon showing, that accepting one's vulnerability is how to accept a person just the way as you are. it's almost like unconditional love from him for us. maybe the paradigm of Namjoon for BTS is just too vast that not many can understand it fully. Again, thank you thank you and thank you ♥♥♥♥ the woke people need to stop forcing their agenda to others already. just leave BTS living their live without prejudice.♥♥♥

Thank you so much for sharing and explaining, I’m so sick of shipping BTS 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜