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 Jimin Enjoys Chart Success With ‘Smeraldo Garden Marching Band’

Jimin

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.

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BTS’s RM’s Sister Opens ‘Cafe Far Ben’ in Seoul’s Seongsu District

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!”

@angootv

RM’s younger sister has just opened a cafe in Seoul! 📍Cafe Far Ben 65 Seongsui-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul ⏰ 10:00 – 20:30 #bts #btsarmy #kimnamjoon #namjoon #rm #korea #seoul #cafehopping #seoulcafe

♬ 티라미수 케익 – 위아더나잇

What’s so good about Cafe Far Ben?

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.

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Jimin of BTS debuts on Billboard’s ‘Hot 100’ with pre-release track

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’.

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.

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Jungkook and Jimin’s Travel Show ‘Are You Sure?!’ to Air in August

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.

When will ‘Are You Sure?!’ air?

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. 

Disney+’s growing BTS content library

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.

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BTS’s Jimin Reveals What Inspired ‘Smeraldo Garden Marching Band’

BTS’s Jimin recently released a behind-the-scenes video on the BANGTANTV YouTube channel detailing what went into the filming of the track video for “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band.” The single, which debuted on June 28, is the first taste ARMYs got of Jimin’s upcoming second solo album, MUSE, which is scheduled to drop on July 19. In the Track Video Behind, the K-pop phenomenon opened up about what inspired “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (featuring Loco).” 

“It’s actually the first song we worked on,” he revealed. “It came together effortlessly while I had the time of my life in America. We started it because we wanted to capture the happy feeling after we finished the FACE album. It’s the song I liked the most and this is exactly how I wanted you to see it. I’m so happy that it came out exactly as I imagined.”

“From the beginning, I made this song thinking about things you’d like,” he added, addressing the fans. “How can I show you the sides of us that you love the most? This dance, set, and song are the product of that. I hope you can love us exactly as we are. Please love and enjoy it.”

지민 (Jimin) ‘Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (feat. Loco)’ Official Track Video

Jimin brought laughter to the set

During the shoot, Jimin went to great lengths to keep the atmosphere joyful and playful, just like the song. He encouraged the young dancers they cast in the video, telling them they were the most important part of the shoot and that they should feel free to joke around. He wanted them to relax and have fun on set. Later, Jimin expressed delight when he found out one of them was from his hometown of Busan as well.

Jimin brought laughter to the set when he mimicked bandmate Jungkook’s choreography for “Standing Next to You” while filming scenes for the “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band” Track Video.

지민 (Jimin) ‘Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (feat. Loco)’ Track Video Behind

The Track Video for “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band” sees Loco dancing alongside Jimin and the rest of the crew towards the end. In the Track Video Behind, Jimin revealed that it was his idea to bring Loco out during the last chorus. The shoot ended with Loco giving him a bouquet of flowers while everyone present applauded. Jimin then leaves a heartfelt message for his fans, promising to return safely from his military service. 

Jimin recorded the entire MUSE album and its associated content before enlisting in the South Korean military. He did so under the dongbanipdae or buddy system alongside Jungkook. The seven-song LP is a follow up to his first solo album FACE, and it contains seven tracks: “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (featuring Loco),” the intro song “Rebirth,” “Interlude: Showtime,” “Slow Dance (featuring Sofia Carson),” “Be Mine,” “Who,” and “Closer Than This,” which dropped in December. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jimin filmed the track video and its behind video before enlisting. Source: Weverse.

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BTS Jin Books First Variety Show Appearance Since Military Discharge

Jin is set to make his first variety show appearance following his military service. The BTS member has been confirmed to appear in “Relax and Rest”.

BTS Member Jin Confirms Variety Show Appearance in ‘Relax and Rest’

According to reports, Jin participated as a guest worker in the filming of MBC‘s variety show “Relax and Rest,” which took place on an uninhabited island late last month. The BTS member’s episode is scheduled to air soon, much to the anticipation of fans and viewers.

“Relax and Rest” is a reality show spin-off of “If You Fight, It’s Over,” led by ‘Village Chief’ Ahn Jung-hwan. In this show, Ahn renovates an abandoned house on a deserted island, inviting viewers to experience a ‘0.5-star island check-in.’ The program aims to provide 5-star service in a 0.5-star environment, appealing to viewers who dream of escaping the bustling city life for a more natural setting.

Jin, who was discharged from military service earlier in June, will reconnect with his audience through “Relax and Rest.” Fans and viewers are eagerly anticipating the charm and performance Jin will bring to this outdoor reality show. Prior to his enlistment at the end of 2022, Jin showcased his entertainment skills on various variety programs, including “Running Man,” “My Little Old Boy,” and “Please Take Care of My Refrigerator.”

Jin previously participated in BTS’s 11th-anniversary event “2024 BTS FESTA”, marking his first official activity post-discharge. This event was a significant moment for both Jin and BTS fans, as it celebrated the group’s long-standing success and Jin’s return to the entertainment scene.

Jin’s involvement in “Relax and Rest” not only marks his return to variety shows but also highlights his versatility as an entertainer. His fans are excited to see how he will navigate the challenges of the show and what new facets of his personality will be revealed. As Jin continues to engage with his audience through various media, his post-military service activities are set to bring joy and excitement to his supporters worldwide.

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BTS Jimin Tops iTunes Charts Worldwide With New Solo Track

BTS Jimin has once again showcased his immense popularity with the release of his new solo track, “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band,” featuring Loco. Dropped on June 28 at 1 p.m. KST, the song immediately soared to the top of iTunes charts across various countries.

BTS Jimin conquers global iTunes charts and amasses millions of views on YouTube with new solo track

By 7 a.m. KST on June 29, the track had already secured the No. 1 spot on iTunes Top Songs charts in at least 108 different regions, including major markets like the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Brazil, France, Germany, Australia, and Canada. Additionally, by 1:00 p.m. KST on June 30, the track’s video had surpassed 7 million views on YouTube, reflecting Jimin’s powerful global influence.

Considering the strong sales performance and Jimin’s widespread popularity, “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band” will significantly impact Billboard’s Digital Song Sales chart next week. This feat wouldn’t be new for Jimin, who is familiar with chart-topping success.

Fans are eagerly anticipating the rest of Jimin’s second solo album, “MUSE,” which is set to be released on July 19 at 1 p.m. KST. The upcoming album promises to solidify Jimin’s position as a leading solo artist in the music industry.

BTS members’ busy and successful solo careers

2024 has been a notably busy year for BTS members as they pursue their solo careers. V released his solo single “FRI(END)S” on March 15, which has garnered over 40 million views as of June 30. He is also preparing to release his Type 1 photobook on July 9. RM released his second solo album, “Right Place, Wrong Person,” on April 24, exploring the themes of internal conflict and anxiety.

Meanwhile, Jin has recently completed his 18-month military service. The remaining members—Suga, J-Hope, Jungkook, Jimin, RM, and V—are currently serving their mandatory military duties. They are expected to be discharged by June 2025, except for J-Hope, who will be released in October 2025. Despite their enlistment, their solo musical careers thrive, topping music platforms like Spotify.

With each member carving out their unique path, the BTS phenomenon continues to captivate the world, collectively and individually.

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BTS Fans Who Kissed Jin at Hug Event Reported to the Police

Fans who attempted to kiss BTS’s Jin during a recent hug event have been reported to the police.

Police Confirm Complaint Against Fans Who Kissed Jin at BTS Hug Event

On June 14, the Seoul Songpa Police Station confirmed that a complaint had been received through the National Petition System regarding a potential violation of the Sexual Violence Punishment Act.

A police official stated, “We received the complaint through the National Petition System, but we have not received a formal complaint. We have not booked the suspect yet,” and added that they will review whether to proceed with a formal investigation based on the details of the complaint.

Earlier that day, a BTS fan (referred to as A) revealed on an online fan community that they had reported individuals who attempted to kiss Jin during a recent hug event to the Seoul Songpa Police Station. A stated, “I reported a violation of Article 11 of the Sexual Violence Punishment Act, ‘molestation in a crowded place,’ through the National Petition System.”

The incident took place on June 13, during Jin’s in-person event for this year’s “BTS FESTA,” where he greeted fans and offered hugs (or handshakes) to 1000 fans following his military discharge. This event was meant to celebrate his return and provide an opportunity for fans to connect with him in a respectful manner.

While the majority of fans interacted with Jin respectfully, a few attempted to kiss him without his consent. Photos and videos capturing these moments show Jin appearing flustered and quickly turning his face away to avoid the unwanted advances.

Netizens React to Police Report

The actions of these fans have sparked outrage within the BTS community and beyond, as many believe that such behavior crosses the line of acceptable fan interactions and violates Jin’s personal space and consent. The incident has prompted discussions about the importance of respecting artists’ boundaries and the need for stricter measures to ensure their safety during public events.

Jin, as well as other members of BTS, have always emphasized the importance of mutual respect between the group and their fans, known as ARMY. This incident serves as a reminder of the boundaries that should be maintained to protect both artists and fans during interactions.

As the police review the complaint and consider whether to launch a formal investigation, fans and supporters are calling for accountability and increased awareness about respecting personal boundaries. The outcome of this situation may set a precedent for how similar incidents are handled in the future, highlighting the need for respectful and consensual interactions between celebrities and their admirers.

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BTS Drops 2024 Festa Schedule for 11th Debut Anniversary

BTS fans, mark your calendars! The group has just unveiled the 2024 Festa schedule for this year’s annual festivities, signaling fans to prepare for their 11th anniversary celebrations.

2024 Festa Schedule Revealed

“Festa” is an eagerly awaited yearly event that unites BTS and their fans, known as ARMY, in celebrating the group’s debut anniversary on June 13. This two-week extravaganza is packed with fresh content and surprises, keeping fans engaged and excited.

Despite all BTS members currently serving their military duties, the 2024 Festa will continue the tradition of commemorating their debut anniversary with remarkable enthusiasm. The celebration will kick off with the release of the official poster on June 2, setting the stage for the events to come.

On June 3, fans can purchase tickets for the “BANG BANG CON” concert, which will be streamed online on June 8. The virtual concert experience also promises to bring BTS’s electrifying performances to fans’ screens, ensuring that ARMY worldwide can partake in the festivities.

BTS Festa Still Happening This Year

As the much-anticipated date of June 13 approaches, BTS has tantalized fans with cryptic messages containing the words “ARMY” and “SEE YOU,” hinting at special events or surprises planned for the anniversary day. The intrigue surrounding these teasers has only heightened the anticipation, as fans also speculate about what BTS has in store.

In addition to the major events, the Festa will likely include a series of smaller releases and activities. These could range from new music videos, behind-the-scenes footage, and exclusive interviews to interactive fan events, photo collections, and possibly even surprise collaborations.

BTS in FESTA photos for 2022. Credit: Facebook/BTS

Each year, BTS Festa serves as a heartfelt thank-you to ARMY, reflecting the strong bond between the group and their fans. It’s a time to celebrate the milestones BTS has achieved since their debut in 2013, and to look forward to future endeavors. Despite the physical distance created by their military service, the Festa also ensures that the connection between BTS and ARMY remains as strong as ever.

So, as June approaches, BTS fans should get ready for a wave of exciting content and memorable moments. Whether it’s through virtual concerts, special releases, or interactive events, the 2024 BTS Festa is also set to be a celebration to remember. Stay tuned and prepare to join BTS in celebrating their incredible journey and 11 years of music, growth, and unforgettable memories.

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Korean Producer Sentenced to Jail for Impersonating BTS Members

A Korean producer has been sentenced to prison for impersonating a BTS member and illegally obtaining personal information. The individual, known as “A,” is in his 20s and has been involved in a series of deceptive acts aimed at collecting sensitive data under false pretenses.

Korean Producer Who Impersonated BTS Member Suga Sentenced to Jail

The Criminal Appeals Department 5-2 of the Seoul Central District Court, presided over by Chief Judge Kim Yong Joong, Kim Ji Sun, and So Byeong Jin, sentenced “A” to one year in prison on May 10th. The charges stem from violations of the Act on Promotion of Information and Communication Network Utilization and Information Protection.

The investigation revealed that in August-September 2022, “A” impersonated BTS’s Suga. Using a mobile phone, “A” contacted a record producer, referred to as “B”, and deceitfully gathered military service details and undisclosed guide sound sources. The fraudulent activity did not stop there.

In November of the same year, “A” escalated his deception by impersonating the record producer “B” to contact Suga directly. “A” sought to extract information regarding an album’s release date and Suga’s enlistment details. These acts of impersonation were meticulously planned and executed, aiming to gain access to privileged information that was not meant for public disclosure.

Impersonating Another BTS Member

Further investigations uncovered that “A” also impersonated BTS’s V. Through this guise, “A” managed to obtain more than ten undisclosed guide music files from other producers. These files contained sensitive information about upcoming albums, unreleased song details, personal schedules, and private information of the BTS members. The unauthorized removal and possession of such critical data highlight the severity of “A”’s actions.

The court’s decision to sentence “A” to prison underscores the gravity of the offense. The unauthorized collection and distribution of personal and professional information not only violate privacy laws but also breach the trust and security protocols within the entertainment industry. The sentence aims to serve as a deterrent to similar future crimes and reinforces the importance of protecting personal and sensitive information.

This case sheds light on the vulnerabilities and potential risks faced by public figures, especially those in the spotlight like BTS members. It also underscores the need for robust security measures and vigilant monitoring to prevent such breaches. For the fans and the industry, it serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding personal information and the serious repercussions of its misuse.

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