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.
Jungkook has thrilled fans with a tantalizing glimpse of his upcoming documentary film. The “JUNGKOOK: I AM STILL” trailer even features the BTS maknae sharing his insecurities about his solo debut.
‘JUNGKOOK: I AM STILL’ Trailer Finally Released
On August 21, the superstar released the main trailer for the feature film, which is set to hit cinemas globally starting next month.
The trailer opens with a candid moment, as Jungkook admits to feeling nervous while preparing for his solo performance. His voiceover reveals his vulnerability, as he questions, “Will I be able to earn people’s recognition just on my own, without the power of BTS?” This heartfelt confession highlights the pressure he feels stepping into the spotlight as a solo artist, separate from the group that propelled him to global stardom.
As the trailer unfolds, viewers are taken behind the scenes, offering a rare look into Jungkook’s intense preparations for his solo debut. The film promises to showcase not only the hard work and dedication behind his craft but also the emotional journey that accompanies his rise as a solo artist. Throughout the trailer, moments of his massive success are highlighted, giving fans a taste of the triumphs that follow his relentless efforts.
“JUNGKOOK: I AM STILL” is more than just a documentary; it is an intimate portrait of Jungkook’s evolution as an artist and individual. The film will begin limited screenings worldwide on September 18, and fans are eagerly counting down the days until they can witness this new chapter in Jungkook’s career. With this documentary, Jungkook invites viewers to join him on his journey of self-discovery and artistic growth, making it a must-watch for ARMYs and music lovers alike.
JTBC has officially issued an apology following the release of the incorrect Suga CCTV video in connection with the BTS member’s DUI incident.
JTBC Apologizes for Airing Wrong Suga CCTV Video
The situation first came to light when JTBC broke the news on August 7, 2024, reporting that SUGA was involved in a DUI case. As part of their coverage, the network aired what they claimed to be CCTV footage of SUGA riding an electric scooter down a main road. This footage quickly circulated, drawing significant attention from fans and the general public alike.
However, it was soon revealed that the footage shown by JTBC was incorrect. According to Dong-A Ilbo and subsequent police investigations, SUGA had indeed been riding an electric scooter, but he had been on the sidewalk rather than the main road as initially reported. BIGHIT MUSIC, SUGA’s management company, confirmed these details, clarifying that JTBC had mistakenly aired CCTV footage of another individual entirely.
On August 16, JTBC addressed this mistake during their live broadcast of ‘JTBC Newsroom.’ The anchor delivered an official apology, stating, “Our newsroom reported BTS member SUGA’s DUI on August 7. In the first part of our report, we aired CCTV footage of an electric scooter passing by on a main road. It was later confirmed through police investigations that the male in the video was not SUGA. We’re sorry for causing confusion.”
This incident has sparked criticism of JTBC’s journalistic standards, as the incorrect footage could have contributed to misunderstandings and unnecessary public scrutiny. Fans of BTS, known as ARMY, were particularly vocal about their concerns, emphasizing the importance of accurate reporting.
As the situation unfolds, the police are expected to summon SUGA for questioning regarding the DUI incident. This development is closely watched by both fans and the media, as the investigation continues to progress. JTBC’s apology, while necessary, has highlighted the need for careful and precise reporting, especially when it involves high-profile individuals like SUGA.
BTS’s Jin is gearing up to engage with fans through self-produced content. Ten Asia reported on the 8th that the K-pop superstar is working on a project revolving around hiking. Recently, Jin went to Jeju Island, where he climbed Hallasan with several cameras. He planned this content himself in collaboration with his agency BigHit Music.
Hallasan is a shield volcano and the highest mountain in South Korea, located on Jeju Island. Rising to an elevation of 1,947 meters or 6,388 feet, it’s a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers in general.
Hallasan is the centerpiece of Hallasan National Park, which features a variety of flora and fauna, scenic trails, and volcanic landscapes. The mountain also holds cultural and spiritual significance. It’s often referred to as one of the three main mountains in South Korea, along with Jirisan and Seoraksan. Its crater lake, Baengnokdam, meaning “white deer lake,” is one of its most notable features.
People can and frequently do climb Hallasan. There are several well-maintained trails leading to the summit, all of which have different levels of difficulty. The two main trails are the Seongpanak Trail and the Gwaneumsa Trail. The Seongpanak Trail is longer but slightly less steep, typically taking 4-5 hours to ascend. Meanwhile, the Gwaneumsa Trail is shorter but steeper, and hikers who choose it usually take 5-6 hours to get to the top. That said, both trails offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
If you want to hike up Hallasan like Jin, it’s important to start your ascent early. Access to the summit is restricted in the afternoon to ensure hikers have enough daylight to complete their descent safely. The trails are usually open year-round, though conditions can vary with the seasons, so it’s advisable to check the weather and trail conditions before planning a hike.
Hiking Hallasan: South Korea’s Highest Peak on Jeju Island 한라산
What else is Jin up to?
In addition to his hiking project, Jin visited his old high school to film more content. The release date for all of it has yet to be confirmed. According to BigHit Music, “Detailed information about our own content will be revealed later.”
Jin is also expected to appear on the variety show Half-Star Hotel in Lost Island. It’s an MBC show where celebrities and guests travel to remote islands to renovate abandoned houses into makeshift hotels. Led by TV personality Ahn Jung-hwan, the show’s fixed cast includes singer Boom and newscaster Kim Dae-ho. According to Sports Chosun, Jin has already finished filming his episode, with the broadcast date to be announced soon.
Furthermore, he recently became the new global ambassador of French jeweler Maison Fred. The brand has been around since 1933, but the people behind it never saw the need for an endorser—until now. Perhaps they were simply waiting for someone like Jin to come along.
Finally, Jin expressed excitement for fellow member Jimin’s second solo album MUSE by saying, “Jimin, I’m next. I’m going to sing too.” Rumor has it that Jin will drop his own solo effort in the latter half of 2024. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: Jin was spotted walking the trails of Hallasan with a camera. Source: X/@nightstar1201.
BigHit Music will hold a special pop-up event to celebrate the release of BTS member Jimin’s second solo album, MUSE. The event, titled MUSE Smeraldo Garden, will take place from July 22 to 28 at the Sikmulgwan Plant House in Gangnam-gu, Seoul.
[복합문화공간 강남 카페] 식물관PH Sikmulgwan PH / Seoul cafe
About the venue
Located two bus stops from Irwon Station, Sikmulgwan Plant House is known for its modern design and spacious interiors. When you walk through the doors of this four-story cafe and exhibition space, the first thing you’ll need to do is go up to the counter and pay the admission fee. The fee varies by age, with prices set at 10,000 KRW for adults, 7,000 KRW for teenagers, and 5,000 KRW for children, except those under 36 months who can enter for free.
The fee covers the cost of a drink. You can choose any one of these coffee-based drinks: americano, cafe latte, einspanner, espresso, and vanilla latte, all available hot or iced. There is also a selection of non-coffee drinks, such as Earl Grey tea, lavender lemon soda, matcha cream, organic hibiscus berry, pineapple ginger soda, and freshly squeezed orange juice (exclusively for kids). Desserts like carrot cake and New York cheesecake can be purchased separately.
After paying the admission fee and choosing a drink, you’ll receive a wristband that gives you access to all areas inside Sikmulgwan Plant House. The Foliage Plants Zone and the Glass House are also on the first floor. Lush trees fill the former, while many potted plants are on display in the latter, which is very Instagrammable. The Cafe Lounge is on the second floor, a mezzanine-level area. It serves as a quiet place where people can hang out or read any of the botany books stacked along one wall. The third floor is an exhibition space featuring art from various artists. Finally, the fourth floor is reserved for events, seminars, and workshops. Sikmulgwan Plant House is open on weekdays, from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
According to BigHit Music, the MUSE Smeraldo Garden pop-up will have a photo zone and various experiential content based on Jimin’s new album. The pop-up will span three floors, each reflecting different concepts and themes the K-pop superstar tackled on MUSE. Fans will be able to leave handwritten messages for him as well. Additional details will be provided to ARMY Membership holders at a later date.
The fictional flower Smeraldo, featured in Jimin’s pre-release track “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band,” will play a significant role in creating memorable experiences for Jimin and his fans at the pop-up.
“Smeraldo Garden Marching Band” was released last month and has reached No. 88 on Billboard’s Hot 100 singles chart, marking Jimin’s fifth solo song to appear on the chart. It will soon be followed by “Who,” the title track of MUSE.
Jimin’s MUSE album, set to release on July 19 at 1:00 PM, features six songs. Jimin wrote lyrics for some of the songs and produced two. Knowing that he had creative control over this project is one of the reasons why fans are looking forward to listening to MUSE when it drops. – K-Pop News Writer
Maison Fred has unveiled South Korean singer and songwriter Kim Seok-jin, better known as Jin of BTS, as its first global ambassador. The announcement was accompanied by stunning photos of Jin in stylish outfits, each showcasing different jewelry pieces from the Parisian brand.
Founded in 1936 by Fred Samuel in Paris, the brand established itself as a prestigious jeweler. It gained popularity among celebrities and high society figures. Originally from Argentina, Samuel was inspired by the vibrant atmosphere of the Côte d’Azur, which influenced his designs. Maison Fred became known for creations like the “Pretty Woman” necklace worn by Julia Roberts in the 1990 film and the Force 10 bracelet, which Jin wore for his photoshoot.
In 1995, Maison Fred was acquired by the LVMH Group. Valérie Samuel, Fred Samuel’s granddaughter, currently serves as its artistic director and vice president.
On its official website, Maison Fred stated, “Maison Fred is pleased to announce its new Global Brand Ambassador: Jin of 21st-century emblematic pop icons BTS. As a true generational symbol, he has made a global impact with his talent and personality, continuing to inspire millions of fans worldwide. Both considerate and committed, with a perpetual smile and a great sense of humor, the eternal lover of life perfectly embodies the spirit of Maison Fred.”
The brand added, “Jin’s radiant personality and contemporary, casual chic style chimes with the modernity and individuality of Maison Fred creations. His collaboration with The Sunshine Jeweler promises to shine with a unique sparkle.”
Valérie Samuel added, “His artistic qualities, values and high standards constantly push him to excel, strongly resonating with those of our maison and our founder Fred Samuel, with whom he shares an unwavering optimism and joie de vivre.”
Mindless consumers
Jin himself expressed enthusiasm for the partnership on Instagram. “Grateful to be part of the Fred family as the Global Brand Ambassador,” he wrote. Expect a lot of new and varied looks that we will be showing with Fred in the future.”
Within hours of the announcement, fans noticed that the pieces featured in Jin’s photoshoot for the brand were going fast. A yellow gold bracelet he wore, priced at 375,000 KRW (about 273 USD), sold out quickly. So did the Force 10 Iconic Necklace, which Jin paired with an all-black outfit. Some fans criticized others for buying such expensive jewelry instead of focusing on more pressing issues, with one person calling them “mindless consumers.”
Another fan hit back on X, writing, “People who’re buying $27k jewelry aren’t on Twitter arguing with y’all.” Someone else noted, “Should we tell her that even the 97k necklace is also sold out?” Meanwhile, another fan tried to bring the conversation back to Jin by pointing out that the brand’s website crashed and its Instagram following surged to over 200,000.
Both the ‘Force 10 winch bracelet ($27,127) AND the Force 10 iconic necklace ($97,398) that Seokjin was wearing in the pictures are out of stock now!! THIS IS INSANE!! #Jin#bts#fredjewelry
This deal with Maison Fred is Jin’s first solo endorsement for a luxury brand. In 2021, Louis Vuitton tapped all seven members of BTS to be brand ambassadors. This was back when Virgil Abloh was artistic director for menswear. Before enlisting in the South Korean military 18 months ago, Jin signed a deal with Ottogi to endorse Jin Ramen noodles.
The 31-year-old is the first BTS member to complete his mandatory service, and he quickly reconnected with fans through a “hugathon” event to mark BTS’s 11th anniversary. He also dropped a limited-edition collab with outdoors specialist Kolon, featuring the Wootteo cartoon character from one of his singles.
In a recent Q&A on the fan platform Weverse, Jin revealed that he’s filming variety shows and recording new music. Although he didn’t provide release dates or other details, rumor has it that fans can expect him to drop an album in the second half of the year. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: Jin’s star power caused the brand’s website to crash within hours of the announcement. Source: X/@seokjinism1.
On July 8, BTS’s Jin made headlines when he visited his alma mater, Bosung High School, to film content.
Bosung High School is located in Bangi-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul. It’s near notable landmarks like the KSPO Dome and the Olympic Park, both of which have served as venues for BTS concerts. The school is known for providing its students with a nurturing environment where they can focus on academic excellence and holistic development. It’s no surprise, then, that the school has produced distinguished alumni like Jin, politician Chun Jung-bae and Samsung Electronics vice-chairman Lee Jae-yong.
Word of Jin’s presence spread across campus like wildfire. As the BTS member walked through the school’s corridors, students eagerly swarmed around him, calling out his name in excitement. Some even confessed their love for him, reminiscent of the stories Jin once shared about his school days, when boys would give him flowers and chocolates.
Netizens cracked up when they saw photos and videos of the students trying to get to Jin. Some said the scene at the school was like something out of the movie Train to Busan, in which hordes of zombies fill the streets of South Korea. The students’ efforts weren’t in vain, as Jin did stop to sign a few autographs.
Several videos and photos of Jin taken by the students quickly spread online. Netizens noticed that he was wearing his old school uniform, sparking discussions about how handsome and young he looked. One fan marveled at how Jin looked even more like a teenager than some actual teens. However, one student—probably because he was sick of wearing the same uniform day in and day out—remarked, “What’s so pretty about our school uniform that you’re wearing it! Wear something expensive! Expensive!”
When clips of Jin toting a yellow umbrella circulated online, fans couldn’t help but be reminded of the popular K-drama LovelyRunner and its male lead Ryu Sun-jae, played by ByeonWoo-seok. Sun-jae often wore a school uniform, and a yellow umbrella that belonged to his love interest figured prominently in the show. Netizens were quick to point out that Jin looked like he could effortlessly play the role of Sun-jae.
Train To Busan but BTS Jin version. These students were running to see Seokjin. From military men to highschool students, we all really have a slim chance of getting that concert ticket in 2025/6.
Netizens wondered what Jin was filming at his old high school. Many fans believed he was creating content for the South Korean YouTube show Secret Transfer Students, where K-pop idols attend a school in uniforms and engage in activities with students, such as games and lunch. The idols also perform special stages for the students.
Previously, the K-pop girl group aespa participated in the show, and fans loved the content that came out of it. Although there’s no official confirmation yet, fans are waiting with bated breath for what Jin has in store for them. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: Jin posted these on Instagram. He really does look like a high schooler! Source: X/@inquirerdotnet.
BTS’s Jimin has made waves on the UK Official Singles Chart again, this time with a pre-release track from his second solo album. According to the chart dated July 5, Jimin’s new song “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (featuring Loco)” from MUSE debuted at No. 46. This achievement marks his fifth entry on this prestigious chart as a solo artist. “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (featuring Loco)” has also topped the UK’s Singles Downloads and Single Sales charts.
Outside of his releases with BTS, Jimin first appeared on the UK Official Singles Chart in 2023 with “VIBE.” This song, a collaboration with BIGBANG’s Taeyang, peaked at No. 96. He followed this with “Set Me Free Pt. 2,” which charted at No. 30, and “Like Crazy,” the title track of his debut solo album FACE, which climbed to No. 8. Also, “Angel Pt. 1,” which Jimin, JVKE, and Muni Long did for the Fast & Furious: Ride or Die OST, went to No. 82.
The song is also succeeding in the US, where it entered the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart at No. 88 for the week of July 13. This makes it Jimin’s fifth solo track to chart on Billboard, after “VIBE,” which debuted at No. 76. His biggest Hot 100 hit, of course, was “Like Crazy.” It went to No. 1, making Jimin the first Korean soloist to achieve such a feat.
Jimin ‘Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (feat. Loco)’ 1st Win M COUNTDOWN
Jimin triumphed on M Countdown
Speaking of firsts, Jimin recently earned his first music show victory for “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (featuring Loco).” On the July 11 episode of Mnet’s M Countdown, Jimin went up against BABYMONSTER’s “FOREVER” for the win. Ultimately, he triumphed with a total of 7,574 points. Not surprising, because “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (featuring Loco)” is backed by big band orchestral elements and hip-hop beats that, when combined with Jimin’s vibrant vocals and Loco’s smooth rapping, create a unique track that stands out.
Jimin has also revealed what inspired him to do the song in a behind-the-scenes video for the BANGTANTV YouTube channel.
Meanwhile, at midnight on July 6, BTS’s official social media shared new mood photos for the second concept of MUSE, titled “SERENADE.” The first concept, “BLOOMING,” focused on flowers, while the “SERENADE” concept featured a guitar as the main prop. In these photos, Jimin was clad in an elegant black suit, standing next to a vintage guitar. More photos and clips for “SERENADE” dropped on July 7. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: Jimin’s cheerful new song is bounding up charts worldwide. Source: Weverse.
Kim Kyung Min, the younger sister of BTS’s RM, has opened a café in Seongsu-dong, Seoul. The new establishment, named Cafe Far Ben, opened its doors on July 1. It occupies a strategic location on the trendy district’s main street, near major office buildings and the well-known 1MILLION Dance Studio, making it well-positioned to attract plenty of visitors from foot traffic.
Spotted at the opening was Jung Ji Woo, the sister of BTS’s j-hope. Not only did she graciously interact with fans who asked her for photos, but she also brought RM’s sister a bouquet of flowers to congratulate her on the opening. Jimin’s father, who runs the wildly popular MAGNATE café in Busan, sent flowers to Cafe Far Ben as well.
Although RM is currently serving in the South Korean military, where he’s playing saxophone in the band, he took time out from his service to congratulate his sister. He sent her a wreath with a note that said, “Dongsaeng! Cheers to new beginnings!”
This marks the first time a BTS member’s relative has opened a café in Seoul. Jin’s older brother runs a business of his own in Yeouido-dong, Seoul, but it’s a Japanese restaurant named Ossu Seiromushi, not a café. (By the way, he also sent flowers to Kim Kyung Min when Cafe Far Ben opened.)
Since it opened, RM’s sister’s new café has been earning rave reviews from ARMYs and locals alike. Some say Cafe Far Ben’s strong points are its ambience, which is complemented by a great selection of music, and its high-quality coffee. Such feedback is likely to attract even more visitors in the future—visitors who will tuck into the café’s signature menu item called Far Ben Chio, a sweet coffee topped with savory peanuts.
To visit Cafe Far Ben, head to Seongsu station on Seoul’s green line (Line 2), take exit 3, turn right, and follow the main street to the café. The address is 1st Floor, Hyupseong Building, 65 Seongsui-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: All the best to RM’s sister on her new venture! Source: Instagram/@cafe.farben.
On July 8, Billboard confirmed via their official social media channels that Jimin of BTS has debuted on the prestigious ‘Hot 100’ chart with his pre-release track“Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (feat. LOCO)” from his upcoming solo second album ‘MUSE’. The song entered the chart at number 88 for the week of July 13th, marking Jimin’s fifth solo appearance on the ‘Hot 100’.
This week’s top 10 on the Global Excl. U.S. chart.
Tap below for details.
— billboard charts (@billboardcharts) July 8, 2024
Jimin’s previous solo achievements include chart success with Taeyang’s “VIBE (feat. Jimin of BTS)” which peaked at number 76 in 2023. His solo debut album ‘FACE’ featured two tracks on the ‘Hot 100’: “Set Me Free Pt.2” reached number 30, and the title track “Like Crazy” made history by topping the chart, making Jimin the first K-pop solo artist to achieve this milestone both as a soloist and as part of BTS.
Additionally, Jimin’s collaboration “Angel Pt. 1 (Feat. Jimin of BTS, JVKE & Muni Long)” from the movie ‘Fast & Furious: Ride or Die’ reached number 65 on the ‘Hot 100’.
Billboard also highlighted that “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (feat. LOCO)” topped the ‘World Digital Song Sales’ chart and reached number 7 on the ‘Global (excluding U.S.)’ chart, underscoring Jimin’s global popularity and influence.
The track itself blends the sounds of a marching band with hip-hop elements, showcasing Jimin’s distinctive vocals and Loco’s rap prowess in a harmonious fusion.
Jimin’s solo second album ‘MUSE’, centered around the theme of ‘love’, is scheduled for global release on the 19th at 1 PM, featuring seven interconnected tracks that promise to take listeners on an inspirational journey.
Jimin and Jungkook from BTS are set to star in a travel reality show called Are You Sure?! It will premiere on Disney+ this August.
The eight-part series was filmed in early 2023, before the K-pop superstars joined the South Korean military under the dongbanipdae or buddy system. It follows them as they visit three iconic destinations in different parts of the world. According to a press release, Are You Sure?! promises to take audiences on a fun journey with the two as they “eat, shop, cook, camp, canoe, swim and road trip together.”
The show will give fans an in-depth look at Jimin and Jungkook’s close friendship and chemistry as they bond over unforgettable experiences, explore different cultures, and enjoy various activities and local cuisines.
Before the official announcement, BTS’s X account posted a teaser video featuring photos of Jimin and Jungkook engaging in activities like kayaking, motorcycle riding, and swimming. The last time he appeared on Suchwita, the YouTube talk show hosted by fellow BTS member SUGA, Jungkook mentioned that he and Jimin had talked about the possibility of doing something together.
“On a shoot with Jimin ages ago, he said it might be fun to do a travel variety show with me, and I agreed,” the golden maknae recalled. “But it didn’t go anywhere after that. Then suddenly, they set up a shoot.”
Episodes 1 and 2 of Are You Sure?! will be available on August 8, with new episodes dropping every Thursday until September 19. The show will see the duo experience summer in the USA, autumn in Jeju, South Korea, and winter in Sapporo, Japan.
Are You Sure?! is the newest addition to Disney+’s growing BTS content library. This collection already includes BTS Monuments: Beyond The Star, an eight-part docuseries covering the band’s first 10 years, and BTS: Permission to Dance On Stage – LA, a 4K concert film of BTS’s performance at Los Angeles’s Sofi Stadium in November 2021.
Other shows featuring the BTS members on Disney+ include SUGA: Road to D-DAY, a documentary following SUGA as he goes to Seoul, Tokyo, Las Vegas, and beyond while working on his latest album D-DAY; j-hope IN THE BOX, a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of j-hope’s solo album Jack in the Box; and IN THE SOOP: Friendcation, a travel reality show featuring BTS’s V and other stars. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: Jimin and Jungkook stans have been waiting for this show to air ever since Jungkook teased it on ‘Suchwita.’ Source: X/@bts_bighit.