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’ RM Delivers Inspirational Speech as MAKRI Ambassador

RM is proving that the MDA (Ministry of National Defense) Agency for KIA (Killed in Action) Recovery & Identification chose right. The BTS leader delivered an inspiring speech at his appointment ceremony as the new public relations ambassador for MAKRI.

BTS Leader RM Chosen as New MAKRI PR Ambassador

On June 1, RM attended the MAKRI appointment ceremony as the organization’s new PR ambassador. During the ceremony, the BTS rapper accepted his new role with a gracious speech.

“First of all, it is a sincere honor to serve such great people as the public relations ambassador for the KIA Recovery and Identification Organization. This year marks the 10th anniversary of BTS’ debut,” Kim Namjoon said.

“Over the past 10 years, we have conveyed numerous messages through diverse songs and campaigns,” he added. “However, I have often reflected on how to reciprocate the love that we’ve received from our Korean fans and fellow citizens.”

“It started with an interest in what I can do to express and represent my love for Korea and its culture,” RM continued. “Visiting museums showcasing Korea’s traditional ancient art and modern, contemporary Korean art was integral to this personal exploration.”

“I sincerely believe that BTS and I can dare to be here in 2023 because there are many people who have worked hard in their respective positions until the country, which was devastated by the Korean War and more, prospered beautifully like this. We give you our infinite gratitude and respect.”

RM Explains How MAKRI Helps South Korean Citizens

RM then shared how being the new ambassador for MAKRI is in line with BTS’ goals. He also explained how the organization helps the citizens of South Korea reunite with lost relatives.

“Lastly, I am honored and proud of myself because I was able to participate in meaningful work with the many people who participated in this event today. I will also work hard to become helpful to the KIA Recovery and Identification Organization even a little. Thank you,” the rapper concluded.

RM and the rest of BTS are currently preparing for their 10th-anniversary celebration BTS Festa 2023 which kicked off on June 1, 2023.

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BTS Announces New Single ‘Take Two’ Featuring All 7 Members

BTS is releasing another full-member single this year. The new song “Take Two” will be dropped in time for the group’s 10th anniversary. That also means it will be one of the special treats for ARMYs in the upcoming BTS Festa 2023.

BTS Announces New Full-Group Single ‘Take Two’

BIGHIT MUSIC issued a statement about the new BTS single on Weverse. The agency confirms that RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook participated in the production of “Take Two”.

“To celebrate their 10th anniversary, BTS will release the digital single ‘Take Two’ this coming June,” the statement read.

“All seven members participated in ‘Take Two’,” it continued. “The song conveys their appreciation toward ARMY for all the love you shower them with and their desire to always be together with you.”

“We sincerely express our gratitude to ARMY for making the 10th anniversary possible with your endless love for BTS, and we hope that ‘Take Two’ will become a precious ‘Gift’ from BTS to you all,” it added.

The statement also confirms that the new single will be released on Friday, June 9, 2023, at 1 p.m. KST.

ARMYs are certainly pleased with the announcement. There were previous concerns that BTS’ latest single “The Planet” might be the last full-group effort until 2025. However, BTS clearly wanted fans to get a special gift in time for their 10th anniversary.

The announcement of “Take Two” is the first major update for BTS Festa 2023, the month-long event when the group celebrates their anniversary. BTS previously unveiled a special map teasing the event’s timeline.

In related news, BTS leader RM will be officially appointed as the public relations ambassador for MAKRI on June 1. MAKRI stands for the MDA (Ministry of National Defense) Agency for KIA (Killed in Action) Recovery & Identification. The organization works to recover the remains of war heroes who lost their lives in the Korean War and returns them to their families.

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Bang Si Hyuk Reveals Why BTS Began Releasing English Songs

Bang Si Hyuk is finally revealing the truth behind one of K-pop’s great mysteries. The HYBE chairman shared the real reason why BTS started releasing English-language songs in 2020.

The Real Reason Why BTS Began Releasing English-Language Songs Revealed By Bang Si Hyuk

Bang Si Hyuk was interviewed by Rolling Stone as part of the magazine’s cover story on BTS. In the interview, the BIG HIT MUSIC founder discussed how HYBE decided that the supergroup should release an English song. The company then worked with UK songwriting duo David Stewart and Jessica Agombar for “Dynamite”.

So why did HYBE decide that it was time for BTS to record a song in the English language? Bang Si Hyuk revealed that COVID-19 was the main cause.

“‘Dynamite’ would not have been released if BTS had been on tour as scheduled,” Bang said. “The project was chosen to shift the mood as a response to the pandemic situation.”

Back in 2020, BTS was slated to support the ‘Map of the Soul’ album series with a concert series. The ‘Map of the Soul Tour’ was scheduled to begin in April of that year. However, it was postponed indefinitely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

For Bang Si Hyuk, “Dynamite” was the perfect song to comfort ARMYs who were disappointed by the tour cancellation and COVID-19’s global impact. Moreover, Bang believed BTS’ message would be best conveyed in English.

“I thought it matched BTS, and that the song’s trendy vibes would be better expressed if sung in English,” he said.

Hitman Bang was certainly right about that. “Dynamite” debuted at number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. It became BTS’ first chart-topper and they became the first all-South Korean act to earn a number-one single in the US.

The global success of “Dynamite” would then lead to a second English-language single for BTS. “Butter” was released in May 2021 and it also debuted at number one on the Hot 100.

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BTS’ Jungkook Reveals Interesting Plan Before Military Enlistment

Jungkook is opening up about his impending mandatory military enlistment. The BTS maknae confirmed that he is already thinking about enlisting for military service. In preparation for his enlistment, Jeon Jung-kook revealed his plan that will ease ARMYs into the idea.

Jungkook Discusses Future Military Enlistment

On May 25, Jungkook held a live stream to interact with his fans. During the broadcast, an ARMY commented, “The military loves you.” The “Euphoria” singer agreed, saying, “It’s true.”

Once military was mentioned, Jungkook immediately remembered his fellow BTS members who have enlisted. He pointed out that J-Hope has finally graduated after several weeks of basic training and shared a photo with the idols. The “My Time” vocalist then admitted that Jung Hoseok has grown so much during his training.

“Our Hope hyung recently had a ceremony for completing training,” Jung-kook said. “Hope hyung uploaded a selfie on our group chat, and his eyes became very manly.”

Jungkook then stated that he will also need to fulfill his military obligations in the future. However, he assured ARMYs that he would return in a cool manner.

“Ah, I have to go (to the military), too, though,” he said. “I’ll go and return cooly.”

Jung Kook then shared how he intends to ease fans into the idea of his military enlistment. According to the “Dreamers” singer, he will not cut his hair suddenly. Instead, he plans to cut it shorter gradually until ARMYs get used to the shorter look.

“Rather than cutting all my hair suddenly, I will gradually cut it shorter and shorter,” Jungkook said. “It’s called hair-lighting,” he added, making a play on words from “gaslighting”.

“I will keep cutting my hair shorter until you guys all of a sudden ask, ‘What, when did his hair become so short?’ ‘When did he buzz his hair?’ And so I will make it so that (my short haircut) feels natural,” Jungkook said.

It’s a thoughtful idea that ARMYs immediately appreciated. Fans were grateful that Jungkook is always thinking about how his supporters will feel about his military enlistment.

For now, BIGHIT MUSIC has not yet made an announcement about Jungkook’s mandatory military enlistment. In the meantime, Jin and J-Hope are the two BTS members who are serving their country.

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BTS’ Suga Shares Surprising Retirement Plans

Suga is already thinking about retirement

Suga is already thinking about retirement. The “Haegeum” rapper opened up about the possibility of retiring from BTS. Interestingly, Min Yoongi has a clear plan for what to do with the rest of his life.

Suga Discusses BTS’ Possible Retirement

Suga recently completed the U.S. leg of his SUGA Agust D Tour and he held a small fan meeting in Seoul on May 21, 2023. During the “Agust D D-DAY: Movie Night”, the rapper spent some time with his fans and discussed several topics.

An interesting topic that came up was retirement. Suga addressed the possibility of performing with BTS for at least another 30 years.

“I envision myself performing until my 60s,” he revealed.

As expected, fans were hoping that Suga will be with BTS for even longer than that. ARMYs began chanting “Please grace the stage till your final moments.”

In response, Min Yoongi retorted, “Let me rest a little bit before I die though. I don’t think I’ll be able to even hold a mic at that age!”

There is little doubt that retirement is not in Suga’s immediate plans and it’s great to know that he will be performing with BTS for a long time.

In the meantime, Suga is getting ready for the Asian leg of his ongoing world tour. The “Daechwita” rapper is heading for Japan in early June and the tour will have several stops at many Asian cities.

In related news, BTS is releasing their own book this summer. “Beyond the Story: 10-Year Record of BTS” was announced earlier this month. The book will be written by journalist Kang Myeongseok and the seven members of the group.

“Beyond the Story: 10-Year Record of BTS” will be structured as “an oral history of” the group’s story. Anton Hur is responsible for the English translation, in collaboration with Clare Richards and Slin Jung. The book will be released on July 9, 2023.

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BTS’ J-Hope Shares Update After Basic Military Training Graduation

J-Hope has finally graduated from basic military training. The BTS rapper celebrated the milestone with new photos he shared on Weverse and Instagram.

J-Hope Graduates From Basic Military Training In Awesome New Photos

J-Hope shared the new images on Weverse and Instagram. He also confirmed his graduation in the caption.

“ARMYs !!! I finished it well,” he wrote. “I was able to complete training well because the letters of support you sent me were very helpful!!!“

“I will do my best for the rest of my military service and show you my best! I love you!!” J-Hope then added, “The cell phone is fascinating…”

J-Hope underwent five weeks of basic military training at the recruit training center of the 36th Infantry Division in April. He then attended the completion ceremony and is now awaiting his station at a military base.

In related news, BIGHIT MUSIC previously asked fans to refrain from sending letters and gifts to J-Hope during his basic military training.

“Please refrain from sending letters and gifts even after he has finished his military recruit training and gets stationed at his military base,” the statement read.

“If a large number of letters and gifts from the fans arrive at the center all at once, it would be difficult to store them and they could be easily lost,” it continues. “We ask that you please refrain from sending anything by mail.”

The statement adds, “BIGHIT MUSIC will assist in making sure that J-Hope is able to personally see any kind and warm messages fans leave on Weverse using the hashtag #Dear_j-hope_from_ARMY.”

J-Hope confirmed his enlistment early last month and began his basic military training on April 18, 2023. He is the second member of BTS to enlist for mandatory military service after Jin in December 2022. Jung Hoseok is expected to be discharged on October 17, 2024.

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BIGHIT MUSIC Asks ARMYs To Refrain From Sending Letters to J-Hope During Military Enlistment

BIGHIT MUSIC is asking fans to refrain from sending too many letters and gifts to J-Hope during his military service. The agency issued a statement regarding the excess number of presents being sent to the BTS member.

BIGHIT MUSIC Issues Statement Regarding ARMYs’ Gifts and Letters To J-Hope

BIGHIT MUSIC released a statement about ARMYs trying to reach out to J-Hope while he is at training camp. The statement informs fans of the guidelines on how to continue sending the BTS rapper their warm messages so he can personally see them.

“Please refrain from sending letters and gifts even after he has finished his military recruit training and gets stationed at his military base,” the statement read.

“If a large number of letters and gifts from the fans arrive at the center all at once, it would be difficult to store them and they could be easily lost,” it continues. “We ask that you please refrain from sending anything by mail.”

The statement adds, “BIGHIT MUSIC will assist in making sure that J-Hope is able to personally see any kind and warm messages fans leave on Weverse using the hashtag #Dear_j-hope_from_ARMY.”

Additionally, the statement shared guidelines for J-Hope’s recruit training graduation ceremony.

 

“In order to prevent any issues that might occur from crowding, we ask fans to please refrain from visiting the site,” it reads. “Instead, we ask you to keep your heartwarming words of support and farewell in your hearts.”

J-Hope began his military enlistment on April 18, 2023. He was the second member of BTS to enlist for mandatory military service after Jin enlisted in December 2022. Since the two were assigned to different training camps, Kim Seokjin found alternative ways to reach Jung Hoseok.

Earlier this month, Jin left a comment under a fan’s Weverse post. The comment was a message for J-Hope asking how his basic training has been going.

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V and Jennie Dating? HYBE and YG Address Viral Paris Date Video

The video showing V and Jennie taking a romantic stroll in Paris has gone viral and it finally reached the artist’s agencies. HYBE and YG Entertainment have addressed the viral video of the BTS member and BLACKPINK singer.

V and Jennie Go On Romantic Paris Date In New Viral Video

On May 18, a grainy video was shared on social media. It shows two people holding hands while taking a walk along the River Seine in Paris. According to the photographer, the couple in the video are actually BTS’s V and BLACKPINK member Jennie.

An update from the photographer, who was revealed to be Amar Taoualit, explains that the video was taken on May 15. He claims that he delayed releasing the video for V and Jennie’s safety. Moreover, the French photographer shared more videos of the couple.

HYBE and YG Entertainment have since addressed the viral video. Both agencies commented that “It is difficult to check [regarding this matter].” The companies pointed out that “they are unable to confirm due to the artists’ privacy.”

This is not the first time that V and Jennie became the subject of dating rumors. There have been several photos shared on social media showing the BTS singer and BLACKPINK member together. Although the images were fan-made, the speculations have persisted for several years.

Most recently, Kim Taehyung and Jennie Kim were caught up in a dating rumor in May 2022. YG Entertainment had previously addressed the speculations by stating “We have nothing to say [regarding this matter].”

V’s most recent project was the reality cooking show “Jinny’s Kitchen” which also starred fellow Wooga Squad members Park Seo Joon and Choi Woo Shik. BTS also dropped their new single “The Planet” which serves as the opening theme for the animated show “Bastions”.

Jennie recently announced JENNIE for Calvin Klein, a limited-edition capsule collection personally curated by the BLACKPINK member. She is confirmed to attend the 76th Cannes Film Festival for the premiere of her HBO series “The Idol” on May 22, 2023.

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BTS’ ‘The Planet’ Dominates Oricon Singles Charts, Spotify Global Chart

BTS is once again dominating the charts with their latest single. ‘The Planet’, the opening theme for the new animated series “BASTIONS”, is taking over the global Oricon and Spotify charts.

BTS Rules Over iTunes, Oricon, and Spotify With ‘BASTIONS’ Opening Theme

Back in April, “BASTIONS” confirmed that BTS will perform the opening theme for the new show. It didn’t take long before fans were anticipating the new track. On May 12, BTS finally dropped ‘The Planet’. The official music video features the characters from the animated series performing a dance cover.

The song was an instant hit. ‘The Planet’ immediately took the No. 1 spot on iTunes Top Songs charts in numerous countries across the globe just hours after its release.

Not surprisingly, the new song has been doing great since its release. BIGHIT MUSIC officially announced that ‘The Planet’ debuted at No. 1 on Oricon’s daily digital singles chart in Japan. Additionally, it debuted at No. 19 on Spotify’s Global Top Songs chart. The “BASTIONS” opening theme reportedly racked up 2,956,589 streams on the platform in just one day.

BTS joins several K-pop acts in the “BASTIONS” soundtrack. The soundtrack includes LE SSERAFIM, Brave Girls, Heize, AleXa, Seo J, Kang Min Seo, and P. Cassady.

BTS Announce New Book

‘The Planet’ is expected to be BTS’ last song featuring all members in the next few years due to Jin and J-Hope’s recent military enlistment. Luckily, fans can still look forward to more content later this year.

It was previously confirmed that BTS is releasing their own book. “Beyond the Story: 10-Year Record of BTS” will be structured as “an oral history of” the group’s story and is written by journalist Kang Myeongseok and the seven members of the group. Anton Hur is responsible for the English translation, in collaboration with Clare Richards and Slin Jung.

‘Bastions’ follows a group of rookie heroes who work to find the villains who are damaging the environment. As they discover the mysterious identity of a hidden villain and protect the earth, the characters will grow into true heroes. The series premiered on May 14, 2023.

Meanwhile, “Beyond the Story: 10-Year Record of BTS” is currently available for pre-order and will be released on July 9, 2023.

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BTS’s Book—Which is Still on Pre-Order—Tops Best Seller Lists on Amazon and Barnes & Noble

BTS sends off JHope for enlistment in their latest photo on Twitter.

Even while on hiatus, global K-pop sensation BTS is raking in top spots and world records.

Even days before the announcement of BTS’s book, “Beyond The Story: 10-Year Record of BTS,” it has already claimed the top spot in Amazon and Barnes & Noble. The interesting part? It is yet to be released on July 9, 2023—just in time for the BTS ARMY’s 10th anniversary.

BTS’s book on this Amazon listing doesn’t have a cover image yet as of today, but it’s already a best seller—as expected from the beloved Bangtan Boys and the equally extraordinary BTS ARMY. As of posting, you can still buy BTS’s book on Amazon. Photo: Screengrab from Amazon.

Bangtan Boys RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook are set to unveil the highly anticipated BTS book a month after their own 10th debut anniversary. Published by Big Hit Music in South Korea and Flatiron Books in the United States, this compelling oral history offers fans an intimate glimpse into BTS’s remarkable trajectory.

The release of “Beyond The Story: 10-Year Record of BTS” has sparked immense excitement among BTS enthusiasts worldwide. This book provides an honest and introspective account of BTS’s transformative journey over the past decade, shedding light on their personal growth, artistic endeavors, and the profound impact they have made on the music industry.

What you’ll see when you book when you buy BTS’s book online at Barnes & Noble now. Like Amazon, it’s also still available for pre-order. Photo: Screengrab from Barnes & Noble.

Authored by renowned journalist Myeongseok Kang in collaboration with the BTS members themselves, “Beyond The Story: 10-Year Record of BTS” offers a poignant and intimate exploration and of their evolution as artists and individuals. Through candid narratives and vivid recollections, BTS opens up about their triumphs, challenges, and the inspiration behind their chart-topping hits.

Through vivid storytelling and candid revelations, BTS invites readers into their world, sharing the inspirations behind their chart-topping hits and offering glimpses of the personal journeys that have defined their unique bond with the BTS ARMY. With authenticity at its core, this book paints a rich and heartfelt portrait of their 10-year journey, celebrating their accomplishments and the indelible mark they have left not just in the music industry, but in the (purple) hearts of millions as well.

This is not the first time Myeongseok Kang has interviewed BTS. In 2021, WeVerse Magazine published individual articles for each member.

As of posting, you can still buy BTS’s book on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

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Featured image: BTS sends off J-Hope for enlistment in their latest photo on Twitter. Photo: @BTS_twt/Twitter.
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