China's 5th Largest Logistics Company Winda Suspends Delivery of BTS-Related Products

Criticism Pours In Over Distorted Patriotism and Nationalism Marketing
China Prepares for 70th Anniversary of the War to Resist US Aggression, 'To Promote Nationalism and Internal Unity'

[Asia Economy Beijing=Special Correspondent Jo Young-shin] Yunda (韻達), the 5th largest logistics company in China, has sparked controversy by announcing it will suspend the delivery of products related to Bangtan Sonyeondan (BTS).

Some Chinese netizens have reacted negatively, taking issue with BTS receiving the 'Van Fleet Award' for their contribution to the development of Korea-US relations and mentioning the Korean War as a "history of hardship experienced by both countries (Korea and the US)."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

On the 19th, according to Weibo (China's version of Twitter) and other platforms, Yunda announced through its Korean branch account, "We have received many inquiries about BTS deliveries," and stated, "Currently, deliveries related to BTS have been temporarily suspended."

Yunda did not specify the reason for the suspension, only explaining, "The reason is something we all know."

It is presumed that the "something we all know" mentioned by Yunda refers to BTS's award acceptance speech.

Chinese ARMYs (BTS fan club) who had been purchasing BTS-related products through overseas direct purchase from Korea strongly opposed the move.

One BTS fan said, "Even Chinese customs are allowing normal clearance, but the company is acting tyrannically," and added, "When purchasing BTS products, logistics companies other than Yunda should be used."

Additionally, some fans posted with hashtags such as 'Trash Yunda,' 'Sue Yunda,' and 'Yunda Get Lost.'

On the other hand, some netizens praised Yunda's action as a patriotic act.

They highly commended Yunda's absurd measure with comments like "From now on, I will only use Yunda," and "This is a truly patriotic company."

Meanwhile, there are also criticisms that some Chinese companies, including Yunda, are using BTS for patriotic marketing.

China, which is facing difficulties due to US-China conflicts, is reportedly preparing for the 70th anniversary event of the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea (Korean War) on the 25th.

The 70th anniversary event is said to focus on nationalism and internal unity, emphasizing China's direct confrontation with the United States and its achievements.