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BTS fans known as ARMY and Kpop fans, in general, are enraged by a remark made by a South Korean government official. The South Korean government is making headlines with its ambitious plan to discover the 'New or Next BTS' and 'Second Parasite' through the establishment of a K Content Cultural Complex. This initiative, backed by a 5 trillion won policy finance plan, aims to nurture the next wave of Kpop talent and filmmakers. However, the government's strategy has sparked significant controversy, particularly among BTS fans and other Kpop enthusiasts.

The Vice Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Jeon Byeong Geuk, recently announced the plans which have been met with backlash. His comments about BTS, the globally renowned Kpop group currently serving in the military, have drawn criticism for their perceived insensitivity. Six of seven members of BTS—Suga, Jimin, RM, V, Jhope and Jungkook—are currently fulfilling their mandatory military service, which has temporarily paused their activities as a group with Jin getting discharged recently. 

Jeon Byeong Geuk highlighted the significant role BTS has played in promoting South Korean culture and tourism. The government's initiative aims to support the development of new musicians through small and medium-sized agencies, hoping to replicate BTS' phenomenal success. This effort is part of a broader strategy to position South Korea as one of the world's top four cultural powerhouses with a target of reaching $25 billion in content exports by 2027.

However, the mention of finding the 'Next BTS' has sparked a heated debate online. BTS' fans, known as ARMYs, expressed outrage, feeling that the group's legacy is being undermined. Other netizens viewed the government's focus as a slight to existing Kpop groups suggesting that they are being unfairly compared to the high standards set by BTS.

The Vice Minister's comments have also reignited discussions about the broader impact of BTS on South Korea's economy and cultural landscape. BTS has been instrumental in boosting the country's cultural exports, contributing significantly to the global spread of K-pop. Their influence extends beyond music, affecting tourism and even the global perception of South Korean culture.

Critics argue that the government's focus on finding the 'Next BTS' overlooks the unique journey of BTS members who carved their path by believing in themselves and not merely following the footsteps of their predecessors. This sentiment was echoed by BTS members Jin and Jimin during a 2020 press conference when they emphasized the importance of forging their unique path rather than imitating others.

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The South Korean government's plan to establish the K-Content Cultural Complex is undoubtedly ambitious, aiming to create a landmark for K-Content by 2035. However, the controversy surrounding the comments on BTS highlights the challenges of balancing the promotion of new talent with respect for the achievements of existing icons.

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