BTS-inspired fan mobilization highlights culture-based climate action at COP30

At COP30 in Belém, Brazil, climate activism led by K-pop fans drew attention, with BTS cited as a source of inspiration for their campaigns. The movement demonstrated how a dedicated fandom can become a dynamic force for climate justice on a global scale. The Blue Zone panel on “K-pop Fans’ Climate Action”—organized by the Jo Brazil Korean Culture Center—helped spotlight these efforts.

Kim Seong-hwan, Korea’s Minister of Climate, Energy and Environment, attended the event and delivered remarks emphasizing the role of culture in sustaining humanity. He noted that culture has long accompanied human life, and he urged that protecting diverse cultures while minimizing climate disasters is essential. Vinícius Gutierler, co-chair of the Group of Friends for Culture-Based Climate Action (GFCBCA), said that mutirão, Brazil’s concept of collective effort, can be realized through music and youth, and he praised the influence of K-pop fandom.

The panel brought together K-pop fan activists, academics, and young leaders who shared examples of climate action driven by the fandom’s vibrant community. Music critic and professor Yi Gyutaq of George Mason University highlighted how K-pop’s global reach has expanded the fanbase’s advocacy for positive influence. Mariana Pacirolli, a lawyer and co-founder of the Brazilian environmental group AmI Help the Planet, described fan-led climate-justice campaigns including Amazon fires, and said BTS-inspired activism motivated their work. Ida Yeon, a campaigner, asserted that K-pop fans are a generation of justice-minded youth who cross borders with tenacity, pointing to campaigns that catalyzed energy transitions by Hyundai Motor and Kering. She added that decarbonizing culture through low-carbon concerts can have powerful cultural impact, calling on the entertainment industry and authorities to act.

Kim Cheolhong, head of the Jo Brazil Korean Culture Center, stated that K-pop fans express themselves and mobilize in a democratic manner, adding that citizen, especially youth, participation is essential to overcoming the climate crisis. The COP30 presidency also welcomed Talía Silva, a youth climate champion and advisor to COP30. COP30 is scheduled to continue through November 21. Since its 2021 launch, K-pop Planet has been a platform for fans to lead climate campaigns in support of their favorite K-pop stars.

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