BTS Express Empathy for Young Graduates at YouTube Event

Boy band BTS delivered a speech at a virtual commencement ceremony hosted by YouTube on Sunday.

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Dubbed "Dear Class of 2020", the special event celebrated university and high school graduates around the world whose graduation ceremonies were canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Pop singer Lizzo opened it by playing Edward Elga's "Pomp and Circumstance" on the flute.

The four-hour event featured speeches, welcome messages and performances by around 40 global figures including former U.S. President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle, as well as singers Justin Timberlake and Katy Perry.

The boys, who are in their early to mid-20s, shared their graduation memories and expressed empathy for young graduates around the world.

"These days, I feel as though I've fallen to the ground during a race... It's as though I'm deserted on an island", Suga said. "There are some things you can only do in isolation... Take your hands off what you can't control, and get your hands on what can change... The only thing we can control is ourselves".

The group's leader RM said, "Some say we have achieved so many things, but we stand no different from any other youth in their 20s, our graduation caps still press to our heads and awkwardly peering into the face of reality... We write songs, we produce, and we practice as we think about the people we love. And it connects to the world during such difficult times, and with music, we hope we can bring you smiles and courage again".