BTS Visits White House, Joins Biden in Historic Inauguration Celebration

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Global K-pop sensation BTS made their first visit to the White House on Jan. 19, joining President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden in commemorating the final day of the Biden Administration. The historic moment was marked by a selfie shared by the Bidens, capturing the group alongside the first couple outside the White House.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Jill Biden wrote, “One final photo,” while President Biden added, “We love you, America.” The photo was shared just hours before the second inauguration of former President Donald Trump, who was sworn in at the United States Capitol Rotunda on Jan. 20, 2025, alongside Vice President Mike Pence.

The inauguration ceremony, held on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, featured a star-studded lineup of performers, including country music icon Carrie Underwood. “I love our country and am honored to have been asked to sing at the Inauguration and to be a small part of this historic event,” Underwood said in a statement. “I am humbled to answer the call at a time when we must all come together in the spirit of unity and looking to the future.”

Other performers included rapper J. Cole, who emphasized his support for the presidency as an institution. “I support the President of the United States, regardless of who’s in office,” he stated on Jan. 18. Meanwhile, former First Lady Michelle Obama confirmed she would not attend the event, though former President Barack Obama was present.

The ceremony also drew tech industry leaders, including Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg, Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, Tesla’s Elon Musk, and Apple’s Tim Cook. The event marked a rare convergence of political, entertainment, and tech elites, underscoring the significance of the occasion.

BTS’s participation in the festivities highlighted their growing influence on the global stage. The group, known for their messages of unity and hope, has become a cultural bridge between nations, earning them a place at one of the most significant political events in the United States.

As the Biden Administration concluded its term, the inauguration served as a reminder of the enduring traditions of American democracy, even as the nation continues to navigate a deeply polarized political landscape.