Category: BTS

Jungkook’s debut solo album, GOLDEN, is bannered by the title track “Standing Next to You.” It’s no surprise that its official music video captivated fans, what with its rich narrative and scenes showcasing the K-pop idol’s impressive dance skills. But the video’s allure doesn’t stop there. Here, we delve into four key aspects that make it a standout piece: the director’s vision, the iconic filming locations, the enigmatic femme fatale, and the way Jungkook paid tribute to BTS. Read on to explore each facet in detail.

정국 (Jung Kook) ‘Standing Next to You’ Official MV

The director’s vision

The music video was directed by Tetyana Robertivna Muinyo, known professionally as Tanu Muino. A Ukrainian designer, filmmaker, photographer, and stylist, she was born on December 7, 1989. She spent her early years in Havana with her Cuban father before moving to Ukraine. Her career in music video direction soared in 2016 when she began collaborating with Ukrainian singer Monatik. Her talent has led her to work with a diverse array of artists across various genres and countries.

Muino’s directorial style is distinguished by its vibrant imagery and compelling narrative techniques. Her portfolio includes collaborations with a roster of high-profile artists such as Katy Perry, Lizzo, Post Malone, Rosalía, and Yungblud. She directed the music videos for Cardi B‘s “Up,” Doja Cat‘s “Attention,” Elton John and Britney Spears‘ “Hold Me Closer,” Harry Styles‘ “As It Was” and “Daylight,” and Sam Smith‘s “I’m Not Here to Make Friends.” She also directed Lil Nas X‘s “Montero (Call Me By Your Name),” which earned her the MTV Video Music Award for Best Direction in 2021. Her achievements include winning the Best Video Clip category at the Yearly Ukrainian National Awards three years in a row, from 2016 to 2018. She was also recognized as Music Video Maker of the Year at the M1 Music Awards in 2018.

정국 (Jung Kook) ‘Standing Next to You’ Official MV (Choreography ver.)

The iconic filming locations

The video was filmed at the abandoned Kelenföld Power Plant in Budapest, Hungary. Constructed in 1914, the power plant was once a state-of-the-art facility and played a crucial role in Budapest’s electrical supply. Its control room, which boasts an Art Deco style, has been a popular location for film and photography due to its unique aesthetic. After serving the city’s infrastructure for decades, parts of the power plant were shut down in the 2000s, leading to its partial abandonment. The site has since attracted urban explorers and photographers from around the world, drawn by its historical significance and architectural beauty.

Another location featured in the video is the Hungaroring racetrack. Located in Mogyoród, near Budapest, Hungary, it has been the venue for the Formula One Hungarian Grand Prix since 1986. It was the location of the first Formula One race behind the Iron Curtain. The circuit’s narrow, twisty, and bumpy track presents a challenge for drivers and provides an exciting spectacle for motorsport fans. The Hungaroring also hosts other racing events and experiences for motorsport enthusiasts.

The enigmatic femme fatale

As mentioned, Jungkook has an on-screen partner in the video, played by Ukrainian model Pasha Harulia. Discovered on social media at the age of 16, she swiftly ascended the ranks of the fashion world. She made her runway debut in Prada’s Spring 2018 show, where she notably donned Miu Miu attire, signaling the start of her journey with some of the most esteemed brands in the industry. She quickly learned the importance of prioritizing and exerting her best effort in every job, a rule she diligently follows. Her social media pages are a testament to her work, often adorned with snapshots from photoshoots with luxury brands like Gucci and Hermes. These posts showcase her modeling prowess, her personal style and the high-profile nature of her assignments.

Beyond her striking looks and modeling talent, people also know Harulia for her activism. Amid the Russian invasion of her homeland, Ukraine, she has been actively participating in protests and using her platform to support her country. Her dedication to her career is matched by her passion for her country’s well-being, making Harulia a model who stands out not just for her work but also for her stance in the face of adversity. In an interview with Vogue at the height of the conflict, she expressed commitment to the cause. “We leave almost every day to protest. If there is a meeting, we will go there. Thankfully, we are in a great country for protesting. People here know how to protest, and that makes me very happy. Many people care and give us support,” she said.

Jungkook pays tribute to BTS

The music video exceeded expectations, with its quality visuals and compelling choreography leaving fans in awe. Theories abound as they dissected the video, with many suggesting it pays tribute to iconic BTS songs through its lyrics and visuals. References to their past are woven throughout the video. For instance, the scenes in which Jungkook has wings are a nod to “Black Swan.” When he sings the word “DNA” in the chorus, he does the signature dance move from the song of the same name. Finally, the Michael Jackson-inspired moves in “Dynamite” are also mirrored, reinforcing the video’s tribute to BTS‘s legacy.

Jungkook‘s “Standing Next to You” is not just a music video; it’s a celebration of his growth as an artist and a nod to the enduring legacy of BTS. With this solo debut, Jungkook proves his artistry is as golden as the title of his album. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungkook pulled out all the stops for the official music video of his new single. Source: YouTube/@HYBELABELS.

On October 28, 2023, Samsung unveiled a pre-recorded video of SUGA. It was a special farewell message to his fans before his return in 2025. In the video, SUGA, whose real name is Min Yoongi, thanked his supporters. He talked about closing one chapter of his life and beginning a new journey. 

“Hi everyone! It’s SUGA. Big shout out to all the SUGA and Agust D and Min Yoongi fans out there. Thanks so much. I just wrapped up one chapter and diving into the next. For me, ‘free’ is living life my own way and following my beliefs. I hope you find your own version of freedom too. Until the next time. Be free.”

SUGA, renowned for his work as a music composer, producer, and songwriter, shared his hope that ARMYs will also find their “own version of freedom” as he concluded his video message. Fans have continued to enjoy SUGA‘s pre-recorded content thanks to his collaboration with Samsung. This partnership, which began on September 3, was to promote the brand’s new product. The special goodbye message marks the end of this promotional period.

The Freestyle x SUGA: Thank you message to our fans | Samsung

New content from SUGA

Even though the promotions for The Freestyle have concluded, fans eagerly await new content from the BTS member. In addition to his farewell message, SUGA has pre-recorded episodes of his talk show Suchwita. An episode featuring Kim Jong Wan from NELL was released on October 17, and another with Taemin from SHINee appeared on October 30. The latest episode brought back Jungkook in line with his own solo album release.

Since formally enlisting for his mandatory military service on September 22, SUGA ensured that there would be plenty of material for ARMYs to enjoy during his absence. Out of respect for other recruits and their families, SUGA, like Jin and j-hope before him, enlisted discreetly and without fanfare. He’ll do three weeks of basic training then finish out his enlistment as a social worker. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Wow, he must really love ARMYs if he took time out to record this video before enlisting. Source: X/@SamsungTV.

The home furniture brand iloom recently launched the campaign “Where Life Becomes Creation” with BTS‘s RM. iloom chose RM because his intellectual curiosity and emotional depth align with the brand’s values. The campaign includes photos and videos of him, along with new products and promotions.

An iloom representative said, “Through the photoshoot, known for his creative sensibility, we wanted to showcase iloom’s honest attitude towards furniture and our thoughtful contemplation. We hope that the value of creation will be added to the daily lives of consumers using iloom furniture, inspired by RM‘s free-thinking and honest expression.”

The video showcases iloom’s genuine approach to furniture-making, reflecting RM‘s own artistic methods. It focuses on iloom’s careful attention to detail and its consideration for the people who use their furniture. This is depicted by scenes of RM at a desk, writing and deep in thought. He fits the campaign’s theme perfectly. He’s always deep in thought and in search of inspiration, indicating that his entire life revolves around creating.

[일룸] 생활이 창작이 되는 곳 – iloom x BTS RM (FULL ver.)

Why RM is perfect for iloom

RM  draws inspiration from many things, including art, books, and pop culture. He also enjoys caring for bonsai trees. Such activities aren’t just hobbies to RM. They help BTS’s leader see the world in new ways, keep him grounded, and spark his creativity. For instance, his exposure to art influenced his approach to making music.

In a previous interview, he explained how his creative process has changed. “I used to be attuned to speech and focus on language and auditory textures, but now I can look at my thoughts from many different angles. That’s why I spend more time studying art now. I’m waiting for the day that it all comes to the surface, like when you paint the base on a canvas over and over so the colors pop. People who create music develop a way of seeing the world through their personal experience and their creative process. Painters naturally exhibit their art over a very long period of time. I think it gave me an eye for looking at the world in one long, continuous stroke. So now it’s a little challenging for me to write lyrics these days. I’ve become more cautious,” RM said. 

When he says he’s become more cautious, that means he takes time to really think about what he’s working on. This mindset fits his status as the face of iloom’s new campaign. Speaking of the brand, the campaign video features the “Roy Mute Edition,” a variant of the “Roy” series, which iloom just released. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: RM’s introspective nature is perfect for the brand. Source: Instagram/@iloom_official.

BTS’s Jin is no stranger to making waves, but his recent acts of strength and kindness during his military service are earning him the nickname “Superman.” Serving in the 5th Infantry Division in Yeoncheon County, Jin was promoted to corporal in July, a notable two months ahead of the usual schedule, showcasing his capability and dedication.

An anonymous source has been sharing tales of Jin‘s military life on social media. Her boyfriend’s senior, another member of the 5th Infantry Division, was struck by Jin’s kindness and generosity. “He said that Kim Seokjin’s face was the size of a fist but hundreds of times more handsome than what you see on the screen. He also emphasized that his back muscles were incredibly well-defined. During the completion ceremony, he bought a box of snail cream for each of the trainees’ parents to give away, and during the training period, he bought snacks for everyone three times, which is considered a lot. He was described as very kind, never getting angry or scolding anyone.”

What Jin did during training

Jin‘s physical prowess is as impressive as his character. The “Superman” moniker comes from an exceptional feat he performed during a ruck march. In the context of the South Korean military, ruck marches are a critical component of the rigorous training soldiers undergo. These grueling exercises are designed to bolster the physical stamina and mental fortitude that soldiers need to face challenging situations. Typically, a soldier is expected to carry a rucksack loaded with 20 to 30 kilograms of vital equipment. This includes weaponry, ammunition, food, and sometimes additional mission-specific gear.

The terrain in South Korea can be quite challenging, with many mountainous areas. The ruck marches often take place in these tough conditions to simulate real combat scenarios. The distances covered can vary, but they are often substantial, with 20 kilometers being a common length for a march. These exercises are not just about individual capability; they also foster teamwork and camaraderie as soldiers learn to support each other and work together under strain.

The same woman recounted, “I heard that the military gear weighs well over 10 kilograms and is very heavy, but when three trainees were excused, Kim Seokjin carried all three of their gear to the destination, shouldering two on one side. I was moved to tears when I heard all this from my boyfriend over the phone, realizing that Kim Seokjin is genuinely a great person.”

A true ‘Superman’

If the story is accurate, it would be an exceptional display of physical strength and endurance. Such a scenario would be a significant departure from standard military training procedures. In typical training exercises, redistributing a fallen soldier’s gear among the squad maintains the unit’s ability to continue the mission. However, for one person to take on the weight of three full sets of gear would be extraordinary. If each set weighed 20 to 30 kilograms, that would mean Jin carried an additional 60 to 90 kilograms. That’s a considerable amount of weight to bear, especially over a distance of 20 kilometers.

The story, as it stands, is a testament to Jin‘s character. It shows his willingness to go above and beyond to aid fellow soldiers. What he did is a reflection of the values instilled by military training and the spirit of perseverance that defines a true “Superman.” – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: These cute photos Jin posted two years ago kind of foreshadowed his new nickname, don’t you think? Source: X/@JinBase_.

On Friday, November 3, BTS‘s Jungkook hosted a live stream on Weverse to engage with fans after dropping his first solo album, GOLDEN. As the idol played his new material in the background, he chatted about the album and responded to fans. The broadcast took a playful turn when fellow BTS member V popped up in the comments, saying that he and Jimin were outside Jungkook‘s house, urging him to open the door. V‘s unexpected comments read, “Jungkook-ah. Hey, Jeon Jungkook. Look at the screen. Jimin and I are coming to your house. Open the door.”

V also started a brief live stream, hinting that they were en route to Jungkook‘s place, but it ended abruptly with Jimin suggesting they shouldn’t interrupt Jungkook‘s stream. Fans speculated that the duo was indeed waiting for the “Standing Next to You” hitmaker, especially when V‘s own stream seemed to show them standing outside the idol’s residence. Jungkook, upon reading the comments, couldn’t help but smile, yet he expressed concern about his unclean house and the possibility of the duo being inebriated, which could lead to a chaotic broadcast.

[SUB] JUNGKOOK WEVERSE LIVE (2023.11.03) | JUNGKOOK LIVE

“No, don’t come! I didn’t clean the house, okay? Would they really come? I shouldn’t say that. Just come then. Got it? I have to turn off the live broadcast because they might show up. I think they met up and drank,” an amused and slightly flustered Jungkook said.

He wrapped up the stream by encouraging fans to enjoy and support the album while taking care of themselves. This interaction was a hit among fans. They found the impromptu visit and the members’ banter endearing and hilarious.

Jungkook of BTS broke records

In other news, GOLDEN, bannered by the title track “Standing Next to You,” has been a massive success. According to Spotify, the album amassed over 39 million streams on its first day, setting a record for a K-pop soloist’s album on the platform. The songs from the album dominated Spotify’s Daily Top Song Global chart, with “Seven (feat. Latto)” claiming the top spot and “Standing Next to You” at second place. The album also made waves in Japan. It topped Oricon’s daily album ranking with over 200,000 copies sold on the first day.

GOLDEN shattered records by selling two million copies in less than five hours, according to Hanteo Chart, becoming the first K-pop solo artist’s album to achieve the double million-seller title on its first day. The album’s success continued internationally, hitting No. 1 on iTunes’ Top Albums chart in 77 countries, while “Standing Next to You” swept the Top Song chart in 71 countries.

Jungkook also made history on Billboard with the new album, placing three songs in the top 10 of the Global 200 (US excl.) chart as the first Asian artist. With “Seven (feat. Latto)” and “3D (feat. Jack Harlow),” he became the first solo singer to grab the top two spots on the Global 200 (US excl.). Additionally, he tied the record on Billboard’s Hot 100 for the most number of hits placed by a K-pop soloist with “Gangnam Style” hitmaker Psy.

As Jungkook makes waves with his work, the BTS members’ bonds remain strong, much to the delight of ARMY. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The group’s maknae line made ARMY laugh uproariously with their antics. Source: X/@boraboravie.

Jungkook, BTS’s youngest member, has embarked on a solo journey with the release of his first solo album GOLDEN. After the band announced a temporary hiatus in 2022 to pursue individual projects and fulfill their military service requirements, fans were eager to see what the members would do. GOLDEN arrives on the heels of pre-release singles “Seven (feat. Latto)” and “3D (feat. Jack Harlow).” Its title is derived from Jungkook‘s nickname, “golden maknae,” a nod to his reputation for excelling in everything he does. GOLDEN is edgier and more mature than anything he has done before, delving into themes of intoxication and sex.

“If you were able to sense the maturity, then that is good,” he tells reporters during a video call from Seoul. Promoting as a solo artist brings new challenges for Jungkook, who has experienced a whirlwind of success with BTS. GOLDEN marks his first full record in English, a deliberate choice to push his boundaries. But making that choice wasn’t easy for him. “I was thinking, ‘Is it okay for a Korean to not release Korean songs at all?’” he confessed. He only forged ahead when he realized he wanted to connect with people beyond language.

“When you think about pop stars, they’re these really cool singers that you’d look up to since your childhood,” he said. “Of course, things have been changing a lot. But I still have that pop-star image stuck in my head since my childhood. And I want to be a cool guy that gives off that amazing vibe.”

Jungkook on songwriting

GOLDEN features collaborations with renowned producers Andrew Watt, Cirkut, David Stewart, Ed Sheeran, and Major Lazer. Its 11 songs range from acoustic numbers to synth-pop earworms to trendy R&B. Jungkook acknowledges the explicit nature of their lyrics, but insists they should be seen as separate from his personal life. “Lyrics are just lyrics, and images are just images,” he says. “I just wanted to try diverse genres and styles and work on my own sound. As of now, that is still my goal. I want to work on different stories.”

Jungkook used to think it was important for artists to write their own material. He has written and produced songs for BTS; in fact, at least two tracks he planned for his solo release ended up on the group’s albums. But for GOLDEN, he chose to focus on performance skills and vocal techniques. “At this moment, there’s nothing I want to write about. So I was thinking, ‘Do I really need to invest my time into creating a song from the beginning to the end?’” 

But he hasn’t ruled out songwriting completely. “On the other hand, when the moment comes when I do want to share my story, I do think it’ll be a song with honest lyrics that I want to share with my fans.”

Golden moments

As Jungkook steps out on his own, the title of his album represents his journey of hard work and self-discovery. “The term ‘golden’ started with the nickname that Namjoon coined. At first, I wasn’t very confident so that term was quite overwhelming for me. But as I grew up and went through so many various changes, the term ‘golden maknae’’ became a source of pride for me. This album includes the whole journey of my hard work and passion, starting all the way from my debut days, from finding my self-confidence to owning this nickname of ‘golden.’ On top of that, it also includes all the moments leading up to now. I use this term ‘golden moments.’ It’s an album that encompasses all these golden moments leading up till now.”

Jungkook has his own definition of success. “I don’t think success is determined by other people’s perspectives,” he says. “Just experiencing self-satisfaction, being happy, experiencing difficulties, being frustrated—I think in all those moments, ‘success’ is always mixed in with it. For me, instead of chasing success, it’s enough to be satisfied.”

On that note, he’s proud to say he’s satisfied with what he’s achieved thus far. “I am satisfied. I do have some things I wish I had done, but I did my best. You could think of it like that,” Jungkook concludes. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungkook looks like a proper pop star in the concept photos for ‘GOLDEN,’ released by BigHit Music. Source: Weverse.

One of the students who received a scholarship from BTS‘s Jimin recently got accepted into their dream school. They sent a thank-you letter to the Green Umbrella Children’s Foundation to thank the idol. In the letter, the student wrote, “The scholarship allowed me to focus on my studies. I aspire to be someone who can have a positive impact. Thank you.”

 In August, Jimin contributed 30 million KRW to the “Thank You, Senior!” project through the Green Umbrella Children’s Foundation’s Busan branch. His contribution, combined with those from various leaders, supported a broader initiative to assist students in need in Busan. The project focused on enhancing educational settings and awarding scholarships. It aimed to bridge the educational divide and foster a community of support between alumni and current students.

 The “Thank You, Senior!” project was a collaboration between the Busan Ilbo newspaper and the Busan branch of the Green Umbrella Children’s Foundation. It raised 193 million KRW, marking a significant step forward in the fight against educational inequality in Busan. Its success helped ensure that students from underprivileged backgrounds have access to better opportunities.

Jimin truly cares

 The project began in July and concluded last month. It not only drew support from various benefactors, including CEOs and directors, but also sparked a potential for national expansion. Other branches of the Green Umbrella Children’s Foundation are now considering launching their own campaigns.

 The “Like Crazy” hitmaker has done a lot of nice things. He once paid for kids’ school uniforms and donated a significant amount of money to help schools in Busan. He also bought 1200 new desks for his alma mater, the Busan Arts High School. Jimin has given money to the International Rotary and the Jeonnam Education Center for the Future. 

But he didn’t stop there. Jimin also donated to the education boards in Gangwon-do and Chungcheongbuk-do. Finally, he sent financial support to UNICEF, which helps kids all over the world. All this shows that Jimin is really using his fame and money to do good things for others. It’s great to see a celebrity who truly cares about giving back and making a real difference. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jimin’s act of kindness towards students from Busan bore fruit. Source: X/@BIGHIT_INFO.