A HISTORIC MOMENT

The 2017 Billboard Music Awards was momentous not only for Kpop (Korean Pop Music) enthusiasts like myself, but also for all Asians. Although movements such as #blacklivesmatter and other racial equality movements are taking rise in America, Asian-Americans still seem to have very little representation and equality in many industries, especially in entertainment. Entertainment and mass media are constantly evolving, encouraged to increase diversity in their casts. It has already been a significant advancement now that Latinos and African Americans are now frequently on the big screen, but why is it that Asian-Americas are continuously represented by "yellow-faced" Emma Stones (despite the fact that she is an incredibly talented actress) or completely lacking in many films? After all, how can we be expected to integrate into a society that we are often outcasted in?

When BTS (Bangtan Sonyeondan, kpop group) won Top Social Artist over famous American celebrities such as Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez, they accomplished a tremendous feat for Asian representation. BTS not only selling out of tickets within a couple minutes, but also won an American music award. By staying true to their cultural musical style (BTS currently has no English songs), BTS has given a voice and opened the door for other kpop groups/Asian artists to grow in America.

Amongst all of the group's well-deserved praises and congratulations, some people continued to compare BTS to American pop music groups such as one direction or referring to them as "those Asians." Instead, this historic moment should be viewed as an opening of opportunities for aspiring Asian musicians and actors in the entertainment industry. BTS has given the Asian community greater hope for pursuing their dreams and aspirations.