Photos from msleasalonga/Instagram, AP
Filipino Broadway icon Lea Salonga has never been shy about her admiration for global K-pop phenomenon BTS.
But for Salonga, the seven-member group also became a source of comfort and emotional support during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Speaking candidly about her experience, Salonga recalled how discovering BTS in 2020 helped pull her out of a difficult emotional period brought on by lockdowns and the sudden halt of normal life.
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“There was a lot going on in my life. And then here comes in the middle of August 2020, ‘Dynamite’ just appears out of nowhere,” she said, referring to the group’s record-breaking hit.
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BTS’ V
Curious about the buzz surrounding the song, she clicked on the music video, a decision that soon led her down an unexpected path.
“And I’m watching YouTube, as most everybody does, to try and get through the day. And I’m like, what is this? What is this on my social media?” she recalled.
“The minute I saw V in that bottle green Gucci waistcoat and flared trousers, like pushing his hair back, I’m like, and I’m done. This is it.”
From there, Salonga immersed herself in BTS content, watching performances, concerts and behind-the-scenes videos. What started as curiosity quickly evolved into a daily ritual that helped brighten an otherwise gloomy chapter in her life.
“It just pulled me out of this, this sad, not quite hopeless, but just this sad state of affairs that my brain found itself in,” she shared.
Rather than dwelling on uncertainty, Salonga found herself looking forward to opening YouTube each day and seeing what the group was doing.
“I don’t know when this pandemic is going to end. But I’m going to open YouTube or open the internet every day. And I’m going to watch what these guys are doing.”
Deep admiration for BTS
Beyond their performances, Salonga said she developed deep admiration for BTS as artists. She praised their songwriting and the genuine bond they share with one another and with their fans.
“I have such great respect for them as songwriters, as performers, as musicians, just as artists,” she said. “There’s something very genuine [about them].”
Years later, Salonga remains a proud member of ARMY, BTS’ global fandom.
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Her appreciation extends beyond casual listening, with the singer frequently citing BTS music as part of her pre-show routine.
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She has also spoken about the importance of seeing Asian artists succeed on the world stage while remaining true to their identity.
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