BTS made history by receiving the Presidential citation at the 5th Korea Good Donation Awards for “LOVE MYSELF” campaign. As the first Korean artist to achieve this level of government recognition, they have set a new precedent. The Ministry of the Interior and Safety and the Korea Council of Charitable Organizations hosted the event. This award marks an eight-year journey that has progressively transformed how K-pop artists engage with and support social causes.
BTS Receives Presidential Commendation at the 5th Korea Good Donation Awards
BTS, the global K-pop group, made history by receiving a top presidential honor at the 5th Korea Good Donation Awards for their “LOVE MYSELF” campaign on December 8, 2025.
The 5th Korea Good Donation Awards
The Korea Good Donation Awards started in 2021 to honor people and groups who inspire hope through giving. The goal is to build a strong culture of generosity in the country. This award highlights the impact of kindness.
Receiving the Presidential Commendation places BTS among a select group. It is the top honor at the ceremony. For example, Samsung Electronics received a similar award for donating 920 billion won over 27 years. This means the government sees BTS as more than entertainers. They are recognized as important contributors to society.
The “LOVE MYSELF” Campaign: More Than Just Words
The “LOVE MYSELF” campaign began in 2017. BTS became the first K-pop group to officially partner with UNICEF Korea. Their message was simple: love yourself, then love the world around you. This idea sparked a global movement.
The campaign reached 155 countries and touched over 100 million people worldwide. Together with their fans, BTS raised about 9.2 billion KRW, or about $6.25 million. This is 15% of UNICEF’s child protection fund, making BTS UNICEF’s largest private partner in child protection.
“LOVE MYSELF” gave support by working to prevent violence against children and teens. It also provided mental health services worldwide. The campaign helped fill gaps so young people could get the help they needed.
The Power of Collective Action: BTS and ARMY
ARMY was more than just a fanbase. They became partners in giving. Fans worldwide started their own projects inspired by the “LOVE MYSELF” message. Their efforts helped the campaign reach even more people.
BTS spoke sincerely about the award. “This award is not so much for us,” they said, “but a gesture of support and encouragement to everyone who resonated with the message.” They dedicated the honor to ARMY, showing the special partnership that inspires many.
Beyond the Headlines: Cultural and Social Implications
BTS broke traditional barriers in Korea and changed what it means to be a celebrity. Now, they are seen as influencers for social change, not just pop stars. Their example is changing how people see fame. Because they believe in the power of self-love and community, their redefinition of celebrity highlights the social responsibility that comes with global influence.
The “LOVE MYSELF” campaign started important conversations. It helped reduce the stigma around mental health, even in places where it was rarely discussed. Young people began to value self-worth, and BTS showed that it is okay to talk about your feelings.
Their philanthropy had a global impact. Artists and groups around the world took inspiration from BTS. The “LOVE MYSELF” message spread across cultures, showing that good ideas can cross borders.
2018.09.24
— LOVE MYSELF (@bts_love_myself) October 12, 2020
2020.09.23
2년만에 다시 유엔 총회에서 전 세계에 희망 메시지를 전한 방탄소년단!
자기 자신과 주변 사람들을 사랑하고 격려하며, 함께 새로운 세상을 살아갑시다.
#BTSLoveMyself #ENDviolence pic.twitter.com/C5YH6pxx1Y
Looking Forward: What This Means for BTS and Society
What’s next for BTS? They are getting ready for a new album and a major world tour next spring. Even as they focus on solo careers and military service, they stay committed to good causes. Their efforts for positive change continue.
The “LOVE MYSELF” campaign could grow and become a lasting support system for youth. This presidential recognition may also inspire more partnerships between the government and artists for a good cause. Imagine the good that could come from it!
BTS use their platforms to address meaningful matters. They also show that consistent, sincere actions can create change. Their story inspires us to help in our own way.
More Than an Award
This moment is not just about BTS winning an award. It shows that society recognizes the powerful combination of art and activism. It also proves that music can lead to meaningful social change.
Some people may wonder if celebrities’ good deeds are genuine. However, BTS’s eight years of dedication to “LOVE MYSELF” show that authenticity matters. The campaign’s impact is not just about numbers, but about millions of lives changed and a shift to self-compassion.
If you feel inspired, you can join this movement too. No matter how big or small your platform is. Think about what project you could start today to spread the message you want to share with the world or make a difference in your own community. Let this be the beginning of your story within the “LOVE MYSELF” movement.
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