Category: BTS

Bangtansonyeondan—more popularly known as BTS—is a South Korean boy band who debuted in 2013 under Big Hit Entertainment (now HYBE). The group comprises seven members: Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook. Together, they have become one of the world’s most popular and successful music groups, with a devoted fan base known as the “ARMY.”

BTS first gained attention in South Korea with their debut single “No More Dream,” but it wasn’t until their hit song “Blood Sweat & Tears” that they truly broke through to the mainstream. Since then, they have released many successful albums, including “Love Yourself: Tear,” “Map of the Soul: 7,” and “BE (Deluxe Edition).”

One thing that sets BTS apart from other K-pop groups is their dedication to creating music with meaningful lyrics. Many of their songs address social issues, such as mental health and self-love, and the group has earned a lot of praise for their positive influence on young people.

In addition to their music, BTS is known for their energetic and visually stunning live performances. They have toured extensively, performing in arenas and stadiums worldwide, and have won numerous awards for their concerts.

BTS has also made a name for themselves outside of the music industry. They have been featured in several magazines, including Rolling Stone and Time, and have appeared on famous US talk shows such as The Late Show with James Corden and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

The success of BTS has made them role models for many fans, and they are known for their philanthropy and charitable work. Together with UNICFE, they launched their Love Myself campaign in 2018 to promote self-acceptance and end violence against children and young people.

BTS is a global phenomenon that has significantly impacted the music industry and beyond. Their talent, dedication, and positive message have earned them a massive and loyal fan base that continues to grow each day.

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BTS’s V Amazes Fans in Behind-the-Scenes Video of His Latest Commercial

BTS

BTS member Kim Taehyung, aka V, impressed fans with his involvement in filming a commercial for Compose Coffee, a popular South Korean coffee brand. A behind-the-scenes video from their recent ad campaign revealed V’s active participation in the production process. He contributed to discussions about angles, shots, and other creative aspects. This demonstrated his influence on the overall direction of the shoot.

Fans got their first glimpse of the “Love Me Again” singer’s Compose Coffee campaign back in January. The ad, rich with references to films like Big Fish and The French Dispatch, reminded fans of V’s well-known fondness for European romantic comedies. This led to speculation that he might have suggested incorporating those elements into the campaign.

The ad’s fusion of cinematic visuals and Compose Coffee’s signature color palette was well-received. In an Instagram post, V acknowledged the director he worked with, Yu Kwang-goeng. The BTS member expressed gratitude to the director for allowing V to contribute his ideas to the ad and bringing them to fruition.

컴포즈커피 V 메이킹필름

Fans praised the BTS member

When fans found out about V’s active participation in the shoot, they wasted no time in praising not just his dedication, but his attention to detail as well. They admired the fact that V demonstrated an ability to contribute significantly to creative projects that go beyond music. For ARMYs, that means V can succeed in whatever he does, regardless of whether he’s an idol or not.

V’s relationship with Compose Coffee began in December 2023, when he was named the new face of the brand. Their partnership has been a resounding success, with the musician reportedly earning over 4.6 million USD for his role in the brand’s ad campaigns. His involvement led to a significant boost for Compose Coffee, which attracted over 2.6 million new users to its app. The brand also introduced coffee cup sleeves adorned with V’s image, which propelled the brand to the No. 1 spot on Baemin, South Korea’s largest delivery service.

Although they’re currently completing their military service, the BTS members, including V, continue to influence popular culture. Fans are eagerly anticipating their return as a complete group in June 2025, looking forward to more projects from the superstar septet that will showcase their creativity. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: V’s not just good in front of the camera, he’s dynamite behind it too. Source: YouTube/@composecoffee.official.

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BTS’s SUGA Announces ‘Agust D TOUR ‘D-Day’ The Movie’ Concert Film

Fans of BTS’s SUGA should brace themselves for an unforgettable cinematic experience. HYBE Labels and Trafalgar Releasing have partnered to announce the release of Agust D TOUR ‘D-Day’ The Movie. This concert film covers SUGA’s 2023 tour, offering ARMYs worldwide a chance to relive his electrifying performances on the big screen. As if that wasn’t enough, the movie will also feature appearances from BTS members Jimin, Jungkook, and RM. Their scenes will include performances as well.

In a heartfelt video message to fans, SUGA bared his enthusiasm for the project. “It’s been a while,” he began. “I’m back with a video to share some very special news with our dear ARMY. Do you remember SUGA Agust D TOUR ‘D-Day’…the finale to my solo tour last summer? The D-Day tour was so meaningful because it told the story of my journey as both SUGA and Agust D. The emotions I felt during the finale are still so vivid, as it was the last concert of the tour. And now, that very concert will be released in theaters worldwide!”

He continued, “I’m so happy, proud, and excited. I hope you’ll enjoy it as much as the concert meant to me.”

SUGA│Agust D TOUR ‘D-DAY’ THE MOVIE Announcement

SUGA loves performing

The trailer for Agust D TOUR ‘D-Day’ The Movie promises an exhilarating look at SUGA’s tour, highlighting the energy and passion he brought to the stage. Premiering in select theaters on April 10 and 13, the concert film compiles footage from the tour’s three encore concerts, held last August at the KSPO Dome in Seoul. The tour covered 10 cities for a total of 25 shows. SUGA embarked on this tour in support of his album D-DAY, which peaked at No. 2 on the US Billboard 200 in May 2023.

The rapper reflects on his career in the trailer. “When I go onstage, I think to myself that I have to kill it,” he can be heard saying. “Concerts and singers are inseparable. I’m someone who thinks a concert is what completes your career as a singer. I’m someone who loves performing.”

SUGA│Agust D TOUR ‘D-DAY’ THE MOVIE Main Trailer

The concert film will be screened worldwide, not just on standard movie screens but also in IMAX, providing fans with a larger-than-life viewing experience. Tickets for the screenings went on sale on March 12, with a website dedicated to the film, SUGATheMovie.com, listing all theaters where the film will be available.

This marks another cinematic venture for SUGA, following his 2023 solo documentary SUGA: Road to D-Day which premiered on Disney+ and Weverse, offering an in-depth look into his journey. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This photo makes it clear that SUGA feels most at peace when he’s onstage. Source: YouTube/@BTS.

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All You Need to Know About V’s New Digital Single ‘FRI(END)S’

Just six months after BTS’s V delighted fans with his debut solo album Layover, the “Slow Dancing” singer is preparing to release a new digital single titled “FRI(END)S.” V and his agency, BigHit Music, teased the track on social media before formally announcing it on March 3. They revealed not only the song’s title but also its release date of March 15 at 1:00 PM KST.

“FRI(END)S” combines elements of pop, R&B, and soul. It offers a relatable and witty take on romance. According to a press release from BigHit Music, “V’s digital single ‘FRI(END)S’ is a sweet ‘confession song’ that complements the pink spring. It starts off warmly like buds sprouting on a spring day and gradually intensifies with the flow of emotions.”

Fans can’t wait for the full version of the song

BigHit Music released the first teaser of “FRI(END)S” on BTS’s official SNS at 12:00 MN KST on March 10. The 35-second clip shows V grabbing leftover takeout from the fridge and eating it alone. It then cuts to a chaotic scene at a movie theater and another where V is all alone in a crowded diner, surrounded by happy couples. As the video consists of scenes from the “FRI(END)S” music video, it also includes a snippet of the song that plays towards the end of the video. The sweet melody, combined with V’s enchanting falsetto, leaves a deep impression. It heightens anticipation for the story V will tell with the full version of the song.

Both sets of concept photos released show V striking various poses all by himself. Fans can view the full set of concept photos on BTS’s Instagram. BigHit Music has promised more to come. This includes a “flash video” that captures the single’s overall mood. It’s scheduled for release on March 11 and will be followed by another music video teaser on March 12.

The song is written entirely in English

Adding to the anticipation, Riley McDonough, known for co-writing Joji’s “Glimpse of Us,” contributed to the lyrics of “FRI(END)S,” which are written entirely in English. The songwriter revealed his involvement in V’s upcoming release through his Instagram Stories. He even tagged the BTS member’s personal account. Connor McDonough, Riley’s older brother (and frequent collaborator), spread the word further by reposting his brother’s story on his own Instagram account.

Riley’s musical journey has evolved significantly over the years. Initially gaining recognition with the pop band Before You Exit, he has since focused on collaborating with different artists. His achievements underscore his knack for creating hits. “Glimpse of Us,” for example, not only hit No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100. It also dominated the Global and US Spotify charts. Riley’s songwriting resume includes contributions to tracks like “Cold As Ice” by Ava Max, “Go Down Together” by Dove Cameron and Khalid, “Red Flags” by Mimi Webb, and “Wonder Woman” by John Legend. His involvement in “FRI(END)S” suggests that V’s new single will benefit from Riley’s proven talent for crafting compelling music.

V hinted at the release of ‘FRI(END)S’

In September 2023, V released Layover, featuring singles such as “Love Me Again,” “Rainy Days,” and “Slow Dancing.” With all seven BTS members having joined the South Korean military, the group is expected to be on hiatus until 2025.

Before beginning his service, V hinted that fans can expect more content from him even as he serves in the 2nd Corps of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Army. “Within 18 months, I’ve prepared a lot of things. Please look forward to it,” V wrote in December 2023. “I’ll really miss you. I love you so much.” – K-Pop Life

Featured Image: We’ll know for sure what the song is about in a few days. Source: X/@BIGHIT_MUSIC.

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Zack Tabudlo Reacts After ENHYPEN’s Ni-Ki Praises One of His Songs

ENHYPEN‘s Ni-Ki has openly expressed his admiration for Filipino artist Zack Tabudlo, particularly for the latter’s cover of “Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You.” 

During a recent live broadcast, the Japanese K-pop star sang “Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You” for ENGENEs. He added, “I like the original version too, but there’s a cover by an artist that I like. I really like that cover, I listen to it every day.” This revelation sent waves of excitement through both artists’ fanbases, especially after it was pointed out that Ni-Ki was referring to Zack’s version, which boasts nine million views on TikTok.

Reacting to Ni-Ki‘s comments, Zack expressed his astonishment and appreciation on X (formerly Twitter). He described the shoutout as “crazy” and shared his gratitude with a heart emoji. 

A growing list of acknowledgments

The connection between Zack and ENHYPEN doesn’t end there. Another ENHYPEN member, Heeseung, also engaged with Zack’s music by covering the Filipino singer-songwriter’s hit “Give Me Your Forever” on TikTok. Zack reposted that cover on Instagram, expressing how honored he was that Heeseung sang his song.

Ni-Ki’s comments about Zack add to a growing list of acknowledgements the latter has received from high-profile figures. BTS’s Jungkook also played “Give Me Your Forever” during one of his live broadcasts. He said he would add the song to his playlist. This growing admiration has helped introduce Zack’s work to international audiences. In fact, it has led to a collaboration between Zack and Thai actor-singer Billkin.

@news5everywhere

Maraming napa-sana all nang patugtugin ni #BTS #JungKook ang kanta ng Pinoy artist na si #ZackTabudlo . #News5 #NewsPH #EntertainmentNewsPH #FrontlinePilipinas

♬ original sound – News5 – News5

Who is Zack Tabudlo?

Zack first gained attention as a contestant on the first season of The Voice Kids Philippines. He was under the mentorship of Filipino rock icon Bamboo Mañalac. Despite being eliminated in the competition’s second round, his music career has flourished.

His breakthrough came in early 2021 with the release of his hit “Binibini.” The song has garnered over 156 million streams, marking a significant milestone in his career. He later released his first full-length album, Episode. The album features songs that connected with both Filipino and international audiences.

Over his career, Zack has released several successful singles and albums. His latest album, 3rd Time’s A Charm, was released on November 17, 2023. He calls it his “most personal, vulnerable, and honest” work. His latest music video, “Pulso,” premiered on February 24. It starred Filipino vlogger CongTV and his partner Viy Cortez. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This proves that music really is the universal language. Sources: X/@nrkcheolso and X/@OFCSparkZArmyPH.

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GQ Korea Unveils Jungkook-Inspired Cocktails by Pine & Co

One of GQ Korea’s latest features spotlights South Korean hotspot Pine & Co., where bartenders Du Ui-hong (Joe) and Beom-suk Park (Patt) crafted a series of cocktails inspired by BTS’s Jungkook and his debut album, GOLDEN. Located in Seoul, Pine & Co. was established in 2020 with the mission of introducing patrons to various drinking cultures through their diverse selection of cocktails. Their creations are influenced by different things, including art, culture, experiences, and stories, and are distinguished by their commitment to sustainability and innovative techniques.

Following their homage to fourth-generation K-pop groups Stray Kids and TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT), Pine & Co.’s new concoctions celebrate the essence of GOLDEN through three unique cocktails, each inspired by a specific track from Jungkook’s album. The “Incomplete Alexander” draws inspiration from the album’s title track, “Standing Next To You,” while the taste of the “Bittersweet Negroni” mirrors the complex emotions of “Hate You,” track 7. Lastly, the “Reminiscent Highball” is a nod to the poignant “Shot Glass Of Tears,” track 10.

Complex flavors

To craft the Incomplete Alexander, start by chilling a glass and gathering your ingredients: Bombay cocoa gin, coffee syrup, orange soboro, and umami cream. In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine 45 ml of Bombay cocoa gin—Bombay redistilled with cocoa nibs—and 45 ml of coffee syrup, distilled coffee liquid balanced with sugar. Mix them thoroughly, then strain the mixture into your chilled glass. Next, Whip the umami cream enhanced with salt and glutamic acid for topping. Finally, garnish with a slice of sweet bread and a sprinkle of edible gold.

For the Bittersweet Negroni, you’ll need Bombay gin, Suze, a special Blanc de Blancs vermouth, and Campari foam. Begin by preparing the vermouth: degas Blanc de Blancs champagne and infuse it with chamomile, mint, and wormwood. Meanwhile, prepare the Campari foam by charging two eggs with Campari in a nitrous oxide siphon. In a mixing glass with ice, pour 45 ml of Bombay gin, 45 ml of Suze, and 20ml of your homemade vermouth. Stir well, then strain into a glass. Finally, crown your cocktail with a generous layer of Campari foam.

@joydarramartisano

Highball drink Ingredients: • whiskey • sparkling water or soda or ginger ale recommendation Lemon-dou • lot of ice 🍻👍 #Jk #Jungkook3D #Jungkook #jungkook_seven #bts #btsarmy

♬ original sound – I Purple You💜🇸🇦🇵🇭 – I Purple You💜🇸🇦🇵🇭

A perfect tribute to Jungkook

To assemble the Reminiscent Highball, select a highball glass and cool it in advance. You’ll need Grey Goose vodka, geranium liqueur, and geranium flowers for the final touch. Begin by filling your glass with ice to the brim. Pour in 45 ml of Grey Goose, followed by 15 ml of geranium liqueur, which you can prepare by redistilling geranium leaves with vodka and balancing that with citric acid and sucrose. Top off the cocktail with soda and garnish it with fresh geranium flowers, placing them delicately atop the drink.

These cocktails aren’t just drinks; they’re an homage to Jungkook’s music, offering fans a taste of his artistry through the medium of mixology. They also demonstrate Pine & Co.’s dedication to crafting drinks that are as much about experience and storytelling as they are about taste. Fans have expressed appreciation for Pine & Co.’s gesture, recognizing it as a perfect tribute to Jungkook, who’s known for enjoying a drink or two, as seen in the live broadcasts he did before enlisting in the military. Next time you listen to GOLDEN from start to finish, make one of these cocktails to enhance the experience. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungkook would probably love these cocktails too. Sources: X/@a_girlwitluv and X/@extraRYce.

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BTS’s V Posts Emotional Message to Fans on His Instagram Stories

BTS member Kim Taehyung (aka V) is still serving in the military, having enlisted in December last year. While fans eagerly await his return along with the rest of the septet, it’s clear that V misses his supporters just as much.

On March 2, V took to Instagram Stories, posting an old video featuring all seven BTS members practicing the choreography for their hit single “Permission to Dance.” He captioned it with the words, “ARMYs haven’t forgotten about me, right? I’m still breathing, you know? Do you think of us occasionally?” This moment of vulnerability tugged at the heartstrings of fans worldwide. It prompted many to reassure V of their continued love and support.

@mitch_army_bts

@thv ig story update🥰💜 #v #taehyung #thv #bts #btsarmy #foryoupage #foryou #fyp

♬ original sound – Mr. Jeongguk🐰 – Mr. Jeongguk🐰

They took to the fan community platform Weverse to remind V that they’re also counting down the days till he completes his mandatory military service. One fan’s post caught V’s attention. They wrote, “Taehyung–ah, I’m thinking of you as naturally as breathing. You’re always sparkling in my heart, I won’t forget you. So be healthy and comfortable. I’m still here without changing.”

V replied, “Then that’s a relief~ thought it was just one-sided for me.”

The BTS member will drop a new song

Amid this exchange of love and support, V’s agency BigHit Music organized a special event to help V connect with fans. The event, named FRI(END)S Party, is scheduled for March 16 in Seongdong District, Seoul. This get-together aligns with the release of V’s new song, “FRI(END)S,” which is set to hit streaming services on the 15th. Those who attend will get to watch its official music video and leave handwritten letters and voice messages for V. This event, exclusive to BTS’s official fan club members, is intended as a gift to the fans from BigHit Music. 

“FRI(END)S” signifies V’s first new release since he dropped his debut solo album Layover in September 2023. The track is described by his agency as an English pop-soul R&B piece perfect for spring.

V’s military service has been marked by numerous achievements. He began by applying to the Capital Defense Command’s Special Division Team (SDT). He passed the document screening, interview rounds, and physical fitness tests, then enrolled in a five-week basic training course. Upon graduating, he was named an elite soldier. Finally, V went to the Army Administrative School for an additional three weeks of training.

Upon completing his advanced training, V was assigned to the “Ssangyong Unit” in the 2nd Corps of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Army, which is under the Ground Operations Command. V began his service in the military police special task force, directly overseen by the headquarters of the 2nd Corps in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province. He’s set to be discharged on June 10, 2025. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: V proved even the biggest superstars need validation from time to time. Source: X/@BTSx50States.

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BTS’s V and Jackie Chan Team Up for SimInvest Commercial

BTS’s V and Jackie Chan took the internet by storm when they appeared in a new ad for SimInvest, an Indonesian investment company. The one-minute commercial begins with V affectionately referring to the legendary Jackie Chan as his “best friend with no limits.” Viewers are treated to scenes of the K-pop idol indulging in the finer things in life, like playing squash and driving a luxury car, before joining the martial arts film legend for dinner. The highlight of the ad is when the two stars share a dance, with V teaching Chan some dance moves and Chan showing V some kung fu moves in return.

The commercial aims to prove that friendships can transcend all kinds of boundaries, including hobbies, generation, favorite sport, favorite food, ethnicity, or distance. This video also symbolizes SimInvest’s commitment to always be a friend to all its users in providing a limitless investing experience.

The campaign’s slogan, “Anywhere, anytime, anyone, experience unlimited experiences with SimInvest,” encourages Indonesians to explore the investment opportunities offered by SimInvest, accessible to anyone with an ID card. This collaboration between V and Jackie Chan aims to inspire more individuals to consider investing as a means to achieve a better financial future. The advertisement has also been featured on OOH screens around Jakarta, including the HI roundabout.

V and Jackie Chan are now #ExperienceLimitlessWithSimInvest

SimInvest execs on the impact of this collaboration

Reflecting on the impact of this collaboration, Ferita Lie, president commissioner of Sinarmas Sekuritas and director of Sinar Multiartha, stated, “Over the last two years, SimInvest has grown very rapidly thanks to the presence of V, who has a loyal fan base among young people. But we can’t stop presenting new things; that’s why we chose Jackie Chan as the second brand ambassador, side by side with V, to represent a more senior group. We are optimistic that Jackie’s figure can be in line with our vision and mission to realize financial inclusion and investment in Indonesia that is more massive and globally competitive.”

Jamial Salim Konpoi, president director of Sinarmas Sekuritas, emphasized that choosing Jackie Chan as a brand ambassador is strategic for enhancing SimInvest’s appeal and building public trust. This partnership reflects the diversity of SimInvest’s clientele. Following the ad’s release, V shared a heartwarming behind-the-scenes video on Instagram, showcasing his natural ability to connect with others, highlighted by his warm interaction with Chan.

@kimsumarie888

Kim Taehyung update his IG story today 03-01-24 with Behind the Scene Clip of Siminvest #Taehyung #JackieChan #Siminvest

♬ original sound – ✨김마리🐻👑 – ✨김마리🐻👑

V expanded SimInvest’s presence on the global stage

Since naming V as its ambassador last March, SimInvest has seen significant growth and increased global recognition, thanks in part to V’s influence. The idol did everything he could to expand SimInvest’s presence on the global stage. He participated in a series of ad campaigns and activities, including his offline fan meeting held in June of the previous year.

SimInvest plans to unveil more content featuring the dynamic duo in the coming weeks, starting with these videos.

Hello from Jackie Chan

Hello from V

Stay tuned for updates! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This collaboration wasn’t on fans’ 2024 bingo card, but they loved it nonetheless. Source: YouTube/@army_bts_do8es.

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BTS’s Jungkook Named Billboard’s Best K-Pop Artist

Billboard has officially declared BTS’s Jungkook as the best K-pop artist of 2024 in its inaugural ranking of the top 100 K-pop stars. The media outler made the announcement to mark the upcoming launch of Billboard Korea in May.

The 2024 Billboard K-Pop Artist 100 marks the first time the US magazine has ranked K-pop artists. The rankings were assembled by the chart teams at Billboard and its Seoul branch, Billboard Korea, which is set to publish its first issue in June. These rankings drew from artists’ activities across the Billboard 200 albums chart, Billboard Hot 100 songs chart, and Billboard Boxscore. The Boxscore tracks tour attendance and revenue, covering the period from January 7, 2023, to December 30, 2023.

Group members were generally listed together unless notable solo activities warranted individual recognition. That’s what happened with Jungkook. This year’s rankings included members from 16 groups: (G)I-DLE, aespa, ATEEZ, BLACKPINK, BTS, ENHYPEN, FIFTY FIFTY, ITZY, LE SSERAFIM, NCT 127, NCT Dream, NewJeans, SEVENTEEN, Stray Kids, TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT), and TWICE.

How did Jungkook take the top spot?

Jungkook’s rise to the top of Billboard’s ranking followed the success of his first solo single “Seven (feat. Latto)” and the album GOLDEN, both released in 2023. “Seven (feat. Latto)” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It remained at the top of the Billboard Global 200 for seven weeks, was hailed as the No. 1 Global Song of the Summer, and snagged the Top Global K-Pop Song at the Billboard Music Awards. Furthermore, Jungkook’s musical prowess was evident in his hit Hot 100 collaborations. These included the top-five hit “3D (feat. Jack Harlow),” which received a remix from Justin Timberlake, and “Too Much” with The Kid LAROI and Central Cee.

GOLDEN further cemented his status by debuting at No. 2 on the Billboard 200. It set a record for the largest sales week ever for a K-pop solo act with 210,200 equivalent-unit albums for the chart week dated November 18, 2023. His track “Standing Next to You” is on track to become his longest-running Hot 100 hit, having spent 16 consecutive weeks on the tally thus far. These accomplishments put Jungkook at the top of a list that evaluates activity on the Billboard 200, Hot 100, and Billboard Boxscore touring data over the past year.

Who else is on the list?

Second on the list is Stray Kids’ leader, Bang Chan, followed by Lee Know in third place. The rest of Stray Kids’ members—Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix, Seungmin, and I.N—also made the top 10, in that order. This indicates a strong showing by the group in Billboard’s rankings. Girl group FIFTY FIFTY, which only has one remaining original member, Keena, secured the No. 10 spot.

In anticipation of its May launch, Billboard Korea plans to host a kick-off event in Seoul. This event will celebrate the K-pop artists featured on the 2024 list as guests of honor. It’ll further highlight the global influence of K-pop and its artists. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: BTS’s golden maknae added another feather to his cap. Source: Billboard.

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Actress Park Seulgi Talks About the Thoughtful Gift Park Bogum Gave Her

During a recent episode of MBC’s Radio Star, actress Park Seulgi told a heartwarming story about actor Park Bogum. “I’ve been hosting Park Bogum’s fan meetings for a long time. After Bogum returned from the military, we finally had a fan meeting post-COVID for the first time in a while,” she began. “Bogum personally called me and asked, ‘Sunbae-nim, I’m having a fan meeting for the first time in a while in August, are you available?’ I gushed over how grateful I was that he thought of me amidst the rising stars like Jaejae and Yoo Jaepil, to which he replied, ‘Noona, you must join us. I really want you to be there.’ Wasn’t that touching?”

@alcawena74

Park Seul-gi, “Park Bo-gum, get BTS Jimin’s autograph… It felt like my heart was melting” Heartwarming story (Radio Star) #JIMIN

♬ Closer Than This – Jimin

Why the gift was so meaningful

Park Seulgi continued by describing a gift the actor gave her. “During the two-day fan meeting, after the first day, the manager handed me a gift. Bogum always writes me a letter saying ‘Thank you, sunbae-nim, noona,’ and gives me a beautiful package of cosmetics he endorses as gifts for every fan meeting. There was also an album included. I assumed it was his since Bogum sings well, but it turned out to be BTS Jimin’s. I adore BTS, and he gave me Jimin’s signed CD. It felt like my heart was melting.”

The actress revealed why the gift was so meaningful. “Only my Instagram followers know how much I love BTS Jimin. It seems Bogum noticed that. My first child’s prenatal nickname was ‘Bangtan,’ showing how much I love BTS, and my second child’s was ‘Tantan.’ I was moved to tears when I received it. When I asked Bogum how he could have possibly given me such a gift, he said, ‘I really wanted to do this for you.’ I was thankful that Bogum remembered me and understood me so well.”

Park Seulgi is a hardcore Jimin stan

This isn’t the first time Park Seulgi has openly expressed her admiration for BTS. In 2019, she went on KBS CoolFM’s Park Myung-soo’s Radio Show and joked about her deep affection for the group. “I really like BTS, and recently, I got married to Jimin in a dream,” she laughed. “I like him so much that he comes out in my dreams nowadays.”

DJ Park Myung-soo also shared that he has a lot of nightmares, but no actors or actresses would come out in his dreams because he “doesn’t have a particular interest in them.” Park Seul-gi’s story became a joke during the show, since she is already married to a producer at an advertising company.

The fact that Park Bogum remembered how much Park Seulgi loves Jimin and made the effort to get her a gift she’d really like showcases the depth of their friendship. It also exposes Bogum’s true nature, proving that he’s not just sweet and caring on-cam—he’s also that way in real life. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Bogum’s thoughtful gesture left quite the impression on her. Source: Instagram/@parkseulgirowa.

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BTS’s Jimin, Jungkook, RM, and V Reportedly Earn Military Promotion

On February 29, 2024, fans learned that BTS members Jimin, Jungkook, RM, and V earned promotions to Private First Class in the South Korean military. X (formerly Twitter) user @jaya20dec broke the news in a now-viral post. It highlights the significant progress the four have made since their enlistment in December 2023. 

RM and V underwent basic training at the Nonsan Training Center, where they were recognized as elite soldiers of their graduating batch. RM was assigned to the 15th Infantry Division in Hwacheon, Gangwon-do, and is currently playing the saxophone in the military band. Meanwhile, after an additional three-week stint at the Army General Administration School, V was assigned to the “Ssangyong Unit” in the 2nd Corps of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Army, which falls under the Ground Operations Command. 

BTS’s Jimin and Jungkook enlisted together under the buddy system (“동반입대” or dongbanipdae). Initially, both went to the 5th Infantry Division, where fellow BTS member Jin is serving. But after a more detailed second classification, Jimin and Jungkook were reassigned to an artillery battalion. 

Military ranks of South Korea 2024 #koreanarmy #대한민국

From ‘ideungbyeon’ to ‘ildeungbyeong’ 

After completing almost three months in their respective units, the BTS members were promoted to Private First Class (“일등병” or ildeungbyeong) from Private (“이등병” or ideungbyeong). In the South Korean military, supervisors can request the promotion of recruits to Private First Class within one year of their enlistment. For the BTS members, their promotions took effect on March 1, 2024. 

The South Korean military is a comprehensive and structured organization with a clear hierarchy. This hierarchy divides ranks into several groups, including commissioned officers, enlisted personnel, non-commissioned officers (NCOs), and warrant officers. Each has specific roles, responsibilities, and promotion criteria.

Progression typically starts from Private and advances through ranks such as Private First Class, Corporal (“상등병” or sangdeungbyeong), and Sergeant (“병장” or byeongjang). Promotions are based on factors like time in service, performance, and passing specific tests. But the exact criteria can vary by military branch and its needs. The military emphasizes continuous training and development programs to prepare personnel for increased responsibilities. 

When will BTS be back? Each Members Discharge Date from the Military

When will BTS return to the music scene? 

Fans expressed pride upon learning about the promotions of Jimin, Jungkook, RM, and V. Currently, j-hope is a Corporal, which is a rank above Private First Class. Speaking of which, rumors are swirling that Jimin has just become eligible for a promotion to Corporal. Meanwhile, Jin holds the highest rank within the group as a Sergeant in the 5th Division. 

 All seven BTS members will be back from the military in June 2025. After their discharge, they plan to resume group activities. – K-Pop News Writer

 Featured Image: The boys are killing it in the military, and ARMYs couldn’t be prouder. Source: X/@BTSMalaysia.

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