(LEAD) BTS named S. Korea's special presidential envoy for public diplomacy

(ATTN: UPDATES with details from 4th para)

SEOUL, July 21 (Yonhap) -- President Moon Jae-in appointed South Korean boy band BTS as his special envoy for public diplomacy Wednesday.

In their capacity of "special presidential envoy for future generations and culture," the members of the group plan to attend major international meetings, including the 76th session of the U.N. General Assembly slated for September, Cheong Wa Dae spokesperson Park Kyung-mee said.

They will send a message of consolation and hope for the youth around the world and also join various activities on such issues as the environment, poverty, inequality and respect for diversity, she added.

Moon's pick of the K-pop sensation, which has set another milestone on Billboard's Hot 100 singles chart with back-to-back No. 1 songs, is part of efforts to publicize Seoul's initiative in handling global issues for the future generations, including sustainable growth, via partnerships with specialists in the private sector.

The appointment is expected to help South Korea enhance its global stature as a leading nation in the post-coronavirus era, according to Park.

lcd@yna.co.kr
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