Jin. (Photo = Paris 2024/Cédric Bufkens/Provided by Sipa Press) BTS’s Jin has captured the attention of the world with his participation in the “2024 Paris Summer Olympics” torch relay.
Kim participated in the torch relay for the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics held in Paris, France on the 14th (local time). He carried the torch from the intersection of Rue de Rivoli to the Place du Carrousel and passed it on to the next runner in front of the Louvre Pyramid.
Mainstream overseas media outlets, including France and the United States, swiftly reported on the local atmosphere and Kim’s popularity, focusing on his activities. In an article titled “Paris Olympics Torchbearer, Superstar BTS Jin,” French weekly “Paris Match” stated, “The diverse crowd gathered on the Rue de Rivoli is larger than ever before. “Wherever I go, there is the BTS fan club ‘ARMY’,” expressing admiration for the fans who lined the streets to see Jin.
jin. (Photo = 2024 Paris Olympics/Cédric Bufkens/Provided by Sipa Press)
（Photo = Paris 2024 / Cédric Bufkens / provided by Sipa Press）
Paris Match described Kim as “appearing in public with a bright smile” and said “it carries a heavy responsibility, but is also a source of pride”. The outlet continued to report on BTS’s popularity, stating “the local reception on this national holiday (Bastille Day in France) is an opportunity to remind us once once more of BTS’s global reputation.”
Earlier, Paris Match had expressed its expectation to select Kim as one of the celebrities who would carry the torch into Paris on the 14th and 15th, and among those they selected, Kim was the only foreigner. In addition, the famous French daily newspapers Le Monde and Le Figaro mentioned torchbearer Kim, adding, “He represents Korea.”
The largest U.S. news agency, the Associated Press, said, “One of the most watched torchbearers is K-pop idol and BTS member Jin.” The U.S. music media Billboard said, “Over the decades, many people have stepped forward to serve as torchbearers, including world-renowned musicians such as John Legend and Jin.”
（Photo = Paris 2024 / Cédric Bufkens / provided by Sipa Press）
Meanwhile, Jin’s group BTS has been dubbed the “21st century pop idols” and has left its mark on the pop music world. BTS has become a global artist and is exerting its positive influence through two speeches at the United Nations General Assembly and the “Love Myself” campaign with the Korean Committee for UNICEF since 2017.
Reporter Park Se-yeon psyon@edaily.co.kr
BTS’s Jin Lights Up The Paris Olympics Torch Relay
Jin, a member of the global K-pop sensation BTS, has ignited the hearts of fans and captured the attention of the world as a torchbearer for the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics.
A Moment of Global Significance
On July 14th (local time), Kim Seok-jin, known professionally as Jin, participated in the prestigious torch relay in Paris, France. He proudly carried the Olympic flame from the intersection of Rue de Rivoli to the Place du Carrousel, passing it to the next runner in front of the iconic Louvre Pyramid.
This momentous occasion attracted significant media coverage, with major international outlets highlighting Jin’s participation and the fervent enthusiasm of his dedicated fanbase, known as ARMY.
International Recognition and Acclaim
French weekly publication “Paris Match” dedicated an article titled “Paris Olympics Torchbearer, Superstar BTS Jin,” highlighting the immense crowd gathered along Rue de Rivoli, larger than any seen before. The publication expressed admiration for ARMY, stating “Wherever I go, there is the BTS fan club ‘ARMY’,” further solidifying the band’s global influence.
The article also described Jin as “appearing in public with a bright smile,” noting that his participation carried “a heavy responsibility, but is also a source of pride.” “Paris Match” recognized BTS’s global impact, stating that “the local reception on this national holiday (Bastille Day in France) is an opportunity to remind us once once more of BTS’s global reputation.”
Other prominent French publications, including Le Monde and Le Figaro, also acknowledged Jin’s torchbearer role, emphasizing his representation of Korea on a global stage.
Beyond French media, the Associated Press, the largest U.S. news agency, declared Jin “one of the most watched torchbearers,” showcasing his international appeal. Billboard, a leading music publication in the U.S., noted Jin’s inclusion amongst renowned musicians who have previously served as torchbearers, including John Legend, further cementing his standing in the music world.
From Global Icons to Olympic Torchbearers
BTS, dubbed the “21st century pop idols,” has left an indelible mark on the music industry, rising to become global superstars and inspiring countless fans with their music, artistry, and positive messages. Their impact extends beyond music, as they have actively used their platform to advocate for important causes, including delivering speeches at the United Nations General Assembly and participating in the “Love Myself” campaign with the Korean Committee for UNICEF since 2017.
Jin’s participation in the Paris Olympics torch relay marks another defining moment in BTS’s journey, showcasing their influence and positive impact on a global scale. This event serves as a testament to their enduring popularity and the remarkable bond they share with their fans worldwide. As Jin proudly carried the Olympic flame, he not only represented Korea and BTS but also symbolized the power of music, unity, and the spirit of the Olympic Games.
Reporter Park Se-yeon psyon@edaily.co.kr
