‘2023 MTV EMA’ canceled due to war and terrorism: BTS Jungkook’s stage shelved

BTS’s Jungkook’s confirmed appearance at the ‘2023 MTV Europe Music Awards’ (hereafter ‘2023 MTV EMA’) has been canceled due to the impact of the ongoing war.

The organizers of the ‘2023 MTV EMA,’ one of Europe’s largest music award ceremonies, issued an official statement on the 19th (local time), stating, “Considering the volatility of global events, we have decided not to proceed with the ‘2023 MTV EMA.” They explained that this decision was made with great care for the thousands of employees, artists, fans, and partners who travel from all over the world for the show.

The organizers stated, “As we watch the terrible events continuing in Israel and Gaza, it does not feel right to celebrate globally at this time,” and added, “Amid the loss of thousands of lives already, it is now a time for mourning.”

BTS‘s Jungkook was scheduled to attend the award ceremony in Paris, France on November 5th and was expected to put on a special stage as this year’s performer.

Additionally, Jungkook, who was nominated in three categories, including ‘Best Song’ for his solo single ‘Seven (feat. Latto)’ released in July, was speculated to have a chance of winning.

The award ceremony, which will not be held, had SEVENTEEN and TOMORROW X TOGETHER nominated as well, and prominent pop stars such as Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, and Doja Cat were expected to compete in major categories.

Although the ceremony will not take place, the organizers stated that online fan voting for the selection of the winners will continue, and artists selected in each category will still receive the awards presented by the MTV EMA.

Previously, a man known for Islamic extremism in Arras, France, attacked and killed a teacher with a weapon.

In light of the growing terror threat, the organizers appear to have decided that holding the award ceremony would be difficult for safety reasons.

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