Author: Kpop News Writer

BTS‘ Jimin recently filmed several videos for Weverse’s YouTube channel. One was an interview in which the “Like Crazy” singer was given certain keywords to use as talking points. “From FACE, the title of my first official solo album, with the keywords FACE, ARMY, CULTURE, and ENERGY, we’ll get to know a little more about me through Jimin’s Keyword Interview, starting now!”

[Jimin’s Production Diary] [FACE] keyword interview

The first keyword

The first keyword got Jimin talking about flying solo. He said he was nervous about promoting alone but did his best to push past his nerves. “Honestly, I had fun making it. But as I was about to start promotions, I suddenly got scared. Will I be able to do well without the members? I don’t think I was able to shake off those worries. As I continue taking on new challenges, I’m thinking I will shake them off on the way.”

The difference between group and solo activities was evident to Jimin. He confessed, “When with the members backstage, I depend on them a lot. They give me energy. My fears lessen. It was a bit burdensome to do all of that alone. When I greeted the fans, I thought maybe it felt a bit awkward because I was doing it alone.”

Speaking of the other members, he revealed that his recent conversation with RM left quite an impression on him. Jimin recalled, “After the album promotions ended, our leader called me, and I was overwhelmed with emotions. He said things like, ‘You worked hard, and I’m so proud of you as a member.’ That became an unforgettable memory for me.”

[Jimin’s Production Diary] Drawing [FACE] emojis

A big concern of Jimin’s

Jimin‘s bond with the fans is undeniable. He said, “I like it when they call me by my name. There weren’t as many opportunities to meet in the past three to four years. When the time spent apart grows longer, even if you’re thinking of each other, you’re not hearing much about them, so it makes you think, ‘You’re all still there, right?’ So it makes me really happy when they call me by my name.”

He says newcomers to the fandom need to take note of one thing: his slightly crooked front teeth. He shared, “My front teeth aren’t straight. So the fans saw one of my teeth sticking out and mentioned the chewing gum we advertised. They called me by that. I hope you can love that a bit.”

That said, Jimin has thought about getting his teeth fixed while he’s serving in the military. He pondered, “Should I straighten my teeth in the army? Or should I not? It’s a big concern of mine. It’s a long period of time, and I don’t want to waste it. But should I not for all of you? I’m thinking about it, so just keep that in mind.”

The future of BTS

Jimin also opened up about his songwriting process in the Keyword Interview, which served as a precursor to his upcoming solo documentary. He says writing in a diary helps him be more creative. When that doesn’t work, he writes letters. However, he didn’t say whether he sends them out or not. When asked what song on FACE was hardest to record, he pointed to the fourth track. 

He explained, “It’s called ‘Alone.’ It’s a song that draws on the period when I thought very badly of myself. I couldn’t really remember the emotions that I felt then, so it was hard to record that song. After I released the album, I felt so much better. I think I’ll make refreshing songs in the future.”

Speaking of which, he also talked about the future of BTS and his own future as a soloist: “I’m preparing a ton of stuff now, but we have to get together and show everyone that we’re still good. And we have to hurry and meet to give you good music, performances, and concerts! Please wait for it! We’ll be back soon, everyone.” – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The Keyword Interview was a fun way to get to know Jimin more ahead of his solo documentary’s release. Source: YouTube/@Weverse.

On October 6, BTS‘ j-hope made a significant announcement on Weverse about his promotion to the rank of Special Elite Class Warrior in the South Korean military. The dancer and rapper, whose real name is Jung Hoseok, posted a heartfelt letter on the platform, updating fans on his military journey and assuring them of his well-being.

Having enlisted in April, j-hope is an assistant instructor at the Baekho Recruit Training Center. His role involves guiding and instructing recruits. He wrote, “I adapted faster than I thought, and I’m working hard. It’s a big responsibility because I have to help and lead young people taking their first steps in the military. I’m still as proud of my military service as I am of my BTS activities.”

j-hope went on to mention his latest achievement, writing, “I became a special forces soldier. I did my best and got good results.” The title of Special Elite Class Warrior is a mark of distinction in the South Korean military, reserved for those who set exemplary standards for their peers.

How did j-hope do it?

Earning the title of Special Elite Class Warrior is no small feat. It demands exceptional shooting skills, requiring one to achieve 18 or more hits out of 20 shots. The military tests physical strength by requiring more than 72 push-ups, over 86 sit-ups within two minutes, and by making candidates complete a 3-kilometer run in just 12 minutes and 30 seconds. Candidates must also complete a 10-kilometer rapid march carrying 20 kg of full gear in 2 hours and 40 minutes, and a 5-kilometer run with 15kg of non-combat gear within 40 minutes.

Additionally, candidates must complete 20 leg tugs, an intense fitness routine in 2 minutes and 10 seconds, and a 240-meter sprint in 1 minute and 2 seconds. Their mental strength is also rigorously assessed, requiring a score of over 90 out of 100 points.

The demanding criteria for becoming a Special Elite Class Warrior highlight the combination of shooting skills, physical strength, combat readiness, speed, and mental fortitude required. j-hope‘s achievements in this regard showcase his dedication and discipline, not to mention his mental and physical prowess. It’s commendable for someone primarily known for their artistic talents in the music world, underscoring j-hope‘s determination and versatility.

The members’ exemplary performances

Interestingly, j-hope isn’t the first BTS member to earn such a prestigious military title. Kim Seokjin, popularly known as Jin, was the first to be honored with the Special Elite Class Warrior title. Jin‘s exemplary performance led to his promotion to Corporal two months ahead of schedule. 

Similarly, j-hope‘s promotion was initially set for January 2024 but was granted early in November 2023 due to his outstanding service. This reminded fans of a playful interaction on Weverse, where Jin had urged j-hope to secure the promotion soon. The exact date of j-hope‘s promotion to Corporal in November 2023 remains undisclosed.

Fans worldwide are thrilled to see another BTS member achieve such a prestigious rank. Upon reading the letter, fans took to social media to shower j-hope with praise. He returned all that love to them by concluding his letter with a touching message. He wrote, “I’m doing very well and becoming more mature. Always stay healthy, don’t get sick, and be careful of catching a cold. Our ARMY!” – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: j-hope posted this photo along with his letter. Source: Weverse.