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 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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BTS’s Jin Earns a New Military Badge to Add to His Uniform

BTS’s Jin has earned another new badge while serving in the South Korean military. As of this writing, he has several badges to his name, each a testament to his commendable performance as a soldier. His badges are proof of the significant contributions he has made to his unit since he enlisted almost two years ago. Jin began his military service on December 13, 2022, at a front-line boot camp located near South Korea’s border with North Korea. He’s currently with the 5th Infantry Division in Yeoncheon, Gyeonggi Province.

Fans found out about Jin’s new badge thanks to Park Rokdam, head of the Korean Traditional Liquor Research Institute. Rokdam took to Facebook to share a photo of the K-pop superstar brewing traditional Korean liquor while wearing his uniform. Jin’s “Worldwide Handsome” features, combined with the intense aura he radiated while concentrating on the task, sparked enthusiastic reactions on social media.

@rulessxx

[D-56] I’m so proud of you Sergeant Kim Seokjin!!💜©nightstar1201 (on X) jin seokjin #kimseokjin #bts #btsarmy #fypシ #xyzbca #foryoupage

♬ i wanna i wanna ridee – user

The badges on Jin’s uniform include the following. First, he has the daehanminguk yuk-gun or 대한민국 육군 (Republic of Korea Army) badge, which signifies that he’s serving in the military. Next, he wears the jo-gyo or 조교 (Assistant Drill Instructor) badge, which reflects his role in training new recruits. He also earned the teukgeup jeonsa or 특급전사 (Special Warrior) badge after proving his exceptional combat and physical prowess. Lastly, the byeongjang or 병장 (Sergeant) badge refers to Jin’s rank as a senior non-commissioned officer.

His newest badge appears to be a division-specific award recognizing his exemplary performance as an Assistant Drill Instructor. Although the exact details of the badge’s significance are unavailable as of this writing, ARMYs couldn’t contain their enthusiasm and pride upon learning of Jin’s latest achievement.

[CHOREOGRAPHY] Jin of BTS ‘슈퍼 참치’ Special Performance Video

Jin continues to make his presence felt

Even while serving in the military, Jin continues to make his presence felt in the music scene. 

His self-composed solo track “Super Tuna” has made significant waves in the music world, amassing over 108.5 million streams on Spotify as of 4:00 PM on May 16. Originally available only on SoundCloud and YouTube, the track was officially released across all streaming platforms in October 2022. It went to No. 1 in 54 countries, with the latest being Azerbaijan in January. The “Super Tuna” special performance video broke records by topping YouTube’s popular music videos chart for 16 straight days, breaking Psy’s record. To date, it has garnered 95 million views on YouTube.

Abyss by Jin

Meanwhile, “Abyss,” which he composed and released in 2020, secured the number one spot on the iTunes Top Songs chart in 26 countries, including Azerbaijan, the Dominican Republic, Latvia, Micronesia, and Portugal.

Jin will reportedly release new material after his discharge from the South Korean military on June 14. He will be followed by j-hope on October 17, SUGA on June 21, 2025, RM and V on June 8, 2025, and Jimin and Jungkook on June 9, 2025. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: As an idol, Jin collected awards; as a soldier, he’s collecting badges. Way to go, Jin! Source: X/@Earmy_Spain.

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BTS Fans Flock to ‘MONOCHROME’ Pop-Up Store

Last month, BTS kicked off an event titled MONOCHROME, with pop-up stores scheduled to appear in cities across Asia and the US. The first store opened on April 26 in Seongsu-dong, Seoul, and closed its doors on May 12. After enthralling fans in BTS’s home country, the MONOCHROME pop-up store will go to Tokyo, Jakarta, Bangkok, Los Angeles, and Manila, offering ARMYs a unique opportunity to connect with their favorite K-pop group through interactive experiences and special merchandise.

On a bustling Saturday afternoon, fans demonstrated remarkable patience, some enduring wait times of up to eight hours to enter the pop-up store. One dedicated fan shared her experience of waiting for hours just to gain access. “This is my second visit. The first time, I arrived at 2:00 PM and entered at 7:00 PM. Today, I arrived at 10:00 AM, and we entered around 2:00 PM. It’s quite a wait, but definitely worth it,” gushed Ines, a 25-year-old fan from Portugal.

The interior of the pop-up offered a nostalgic journey through BTS’s history, featuring previously unreleased black-and-white photos of the group, taken before they enlisted. Upon entering, fans received a special luggage tag. They then stepped into a space that resembled a warehouse, complete with wooden boxes and parcels arranged around conveyor belts. Before leaving, fans could also get a certificate from a booth beside the exit as a souvenir of their experience.

[Onsite Report] BTS highlights close ties with fans via Monochrome pop-up store

The relationship between BTS and their fans

Aashni, a 20-year-old ARMY from Britain, was all smiles as she left the pop-up. “Back in my country, it’s not as open and friendly about fan culture, whereas here, I can meet people in the same situation, all here to support BTS. The overall experience has been so positive,” she said happily. “If you’re an introvert like I am, you might have to force yourself to try it, but I managed to chat with different people and the conversation just carries on. It’s really nice.”

The MONOCHROME concept revolves around “memory clouds,” which are said to hold memories of the times BTS and their fans have shared, both good and bad. These memories are preserved in bottles, an approach the band first utilized during their BTS 4TH MUSTER [Happy Ever After] fan meeting back in 2018. The MONOCHROME pop-ups will expand on this theme, distributing the memory clouds to a global audience.

As all seven members of BTS—RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—are currently serving in the South Korean military, the pop-ups serve as a poignant reminder of the relationship between BTS and their fans. With the septet set to reunite next year, the pop-ups are a perfect way to whet ARMY’s appetite for BTS-related content until all the members are discharged. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This Jimin fan brought her Chimmy toy with her when she visited the pop-up on its last day in Seoul. Source: X/@brendayee.

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BTS RM Drops Pensive MV for ‘Come back to me’ Pre-Release Track

On May 10, the K-Pop community was sent into a frenzy as RM, the illustrious leader of BTS, treated fans to a tantalizing sneak peek of his forthcoming solo album ‘Right Place, Wrong Person’. At precisely 1 p.m. KST, RM unveiled “Come back to me,” a pre-released track that offers a glimpse into the thematic depth and sonic innovation awaiting listeners.

BTS Leader RM Returns with ‘Come back to me’ MV

“Come back to me” isn’t just another song; it’s a mesmerizing journey through the realms of indie pop, interwoven with RM’s introspective musings on the dichotomy of right and wrong. The collaboration with Oh Hyuk of HYUKOH adds an extra layer of allure, infusing the track with a distinctive sound and lyrical prowess that resonates deeply with audiences.

As the title suggests, “Right Place, Wrong Person” promises to delve into the intricacies of fate, choice, and the eternal quest for self-discovery. RM’s artistic vision shines through not only in the music but also in the album’s overarching theme, offering listeners a poignant narrative that transcends mere entertainment.

RM Makes The Wait for His Return Much Easier

The announcement of RM’s solo comeback has ignited a global wave of anticipation, with fans eagerly marking their calendars for the album’s release on May 24 at 1 p.m. KST. BIGHIT MUSIC‘s official unveiling of the album details on April 26 set the stage for what promises to be a monumental moment in RM’s solo career and BTS’s collective legacy.

For ARMYs, RM’s solo endeavors represent more than just music; they signify a celebration of artistic autonomy and creative expression. With each teaser, concept photo, and promotional event, excitement mounts, underscoring the profound connection between RM and his devoted fanbase.

As the countdown to “Right Place, Wrong Person” intensifies, the air is thick with anticipation, as fans brace themselves for an unforgettable musical odyssey. RM’s solo album isn’t just an album; it’s a testament to resilience, growth, and the unwavering bond between artist and audience—a bond that transcends language, culture, and geographic borders.

In the days leading up to the album release, the world holds its breath, poised to embark on a transformative journey through the melodic tapestry of RM’s soul. And when the clock strikes 1 p.m. KST on May 24, millions will press play, ready to be swept away by the magic of “Right Place, Wrong Person”—a masterpiece in the making, courtesy of one of K-Pop’s most visionary talents.

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BIGHIT MUSIC Follows Up on Legal Proceedings Concerning BTS’s Rights

BIGHIT MUSIC’s recent update regarding the legal proceedings concerning BTS reflects the company’s unwavering commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of the group’s members in the face of targeted attacks and defamation.

BIGHIT Shares Update on Legal Proceedings Involving BTS Members’ Rights

In their statement released on May 2, BIGHIT MUSIC reiterated their firm stance against defamatory activities aimed at BTS, signaling the gravity of the situation and their determination to address it head-on.

“Our agency decided that the recent movement spreading false rumors and information has become excessive and announced previously that a separate law firm would be engaged to address these matters decisively.

“Thus, we have identified and compiled several posts containing misinformation aimed at defaming and slandering the artists and filed the initial round of criminal complaint to law enforcement agencies today (May 2). This compilation includes posts that were systematically uploaded then deleted as well as posts from authors who have since deleted their accounts. We will persist in our legal proceedings through continuous monitoring and gathering of evidence.

“We uphold a zero-tolerance policy for filing civic and criminal complaints against individuals who attempt to tarnish the reputation of our artists by spreading malicious falsehoods. We will offer no leniency or settlements, ensuring that offenders are appropriately punished without exception.”

The decision to pursue legal action underscores the severity of the organized campaigns aimed at tarnishing BTS’s reputation, highlighting the insidious nature of misinformation and malicious intent in the digital age. By publicly addressing these issues, BIGHIT MUSIC is not only standing in solidarity with BTS but also sending a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated.

In addition to their proactive approach to legal proceedings, BIGHIT MUSIC’s enlistment of an additional law firm speaks to their commitment to bolstering their legal defenses and actively combating harmful content. The strategic move further strengthens their ability to navigate complex legal matters and pursue justice on behalf of BTS.

Furthermore, BIGHIT MUSIC’s emphasis on real-time monitoring underscores the urgency with which they are addressing the situation, recognizing the need for swift action to counteract malicious activities before they escalate further. By diligently gathering evidence of defamatory postings and rumors, BIGHIT MUSIC is positioning itself to take decisive measures against those responsible, holding them accountable for their actions and ensuring that BTS’s rights are upheld.

Overall, BIGHIT MUSIC’s proactive stance and comprehensive approach to addressing the targeted attacks on BTS demonstrate their unwavering dedication to protecting the group’s well-being and preserving their reputation amidst challenging circumstances. As they continue to navigate the legal proceedings, BIGHIT MUSIC remains steadfast in their commitment to defending BTS and safeguarding their rights in the face of adversity.

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BIGHIT Takes Legal Action Against BTS Defamatory Activities

BIGHIT MUSIC’s latest announcement to take legal action against defamatory activities underscores the gravity of the situation surrounding the targeted attacks on BTS, also signaling a proactive stance to safeguard the rights and dignity of the group’s members. The surge in organized campaigns aimed at tarnishing BTS’s reputation reflects a disturbing trend in the digital age, where misinformation and malicious intent can spread rapidly and inflict real harm.

BIGHIT To Take Action Against BTS Defamatory Activities

By publicly addressing these issues and taking concrete steps to address them, BIGHIT MUSIC is sending a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated. The decision to enlist the support of an additional law firm also demonstrates the company’s commitment to bolstering its legal defenses and actively combating the proliferation of harmful content.

The company’s emphasis on real-time monitoring also highlights the urgency with which they are approaching this matter, recognizing the need for swift action to counteract malicious activities. By gathering evidence of defamatory postings and rumors, BIGHIT MUSIC is also positioning itself to take decisive measures against those responsible, holding them accountable for their actions.

Crucially, BIGHIT MUSIC’s declaration of a zero-tolerance policy sends a strong signal to perpetrators that there will be consequences for their actions. By refusing to entertain leniency or settlements, the company is also reaffirming its dedication to upholding the integrity and well-being of BTS and its members, prioritizing their rights above all else.

In an industry where artists often face intense scrutiny and relentless public attention, BIGHIT MUSIC’s commitment to protecting BTS also sets a precedent for responsible management and advocacy for artists’ rights. As BTS continues to inspire millions worldwide with their music and message, it is imperative that they are afforded the respect and dignity they deserve, free from unwarranted attacks and defamation.

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BTS RM Drops Solo Album Scheduler Despite Military Enlistment

It looks like RM is determined to serve his country and the world this year. BIGHIT MUSIC has announced that the BTS leader will be releasing a solo album despite military enlistment. Now, Kim Namjoon has dropped an official schedule for the upcoming release.

BTS’ RM Announces Solo Album Release in May Despite Military Enlistment

BTS’s RM has set the K-Pop world abuzz with the thrilling announcement of his second solo album, “Right Place, Wrong Person,” slated for release on May 24 at 1 p.m. KST. With BIGHIT MUSIC officially unveiling the exciting news on April 26, fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating RM’s latest musical offering.

As anticipation mounts, RM has treated fans to a glimpse of what’s to come by releasing the promotion schedule for his forthcoming album. The meticulously crafted roadmap offers fans a tantalizing preview of the exciting events leading up to the album’s highly anticipated release.

‘Right Place, Wrong Person’ Scheduler Unveiled

The promotion schedule serves as a roadmap, guiding fans through a series of carefully curated teasers and announcements designed to build anticipation and excitement for “Right Place, Wrong Person.” From concept photo releases to tracklist reveals and MV teasers, each milestone in the promotion schedule offers fans a deeper insight into RM’s creative vision and musical direction for his solo project.

RM’s solo endeavors have consistently captivated audiences with his introspective lyricism, innovative production, and thought-provoking themes. With “Right Place, Wrong Person,” fans can expect nothing less than a musical journey that transcends boundaries and resonates on a deeply personal level.

Beyond the music itself, RM’s solo comeback represents a momentous occasion for ARMYs, who have eagerly supported and celebrated his artistic pursuits alongside BTS’s collective endeavors. As the promotion schedule unfolds and excitement reaches fever pitch, the countdown to RM’s solo album release is officially underway, promising a musical experience that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on fans around the globe.

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