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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Calvin Klein Reportedly Spent 10M USD on Jungkook’s New Ad

Calvin Klein

Calvin Klein’s new ad for their Spring/Summer 2024 collection took social media by storm upon its release on February 14. The seven-second ad, set to the tune of Iggy Pop’s 1977 single “The Passenger,” features BTS’s Jungkook moving and grooving through Grand Central Station. Normally one of the busiest places in New York City, the station was empty on the day of filming. Calvin Klein reportedly paid approximately 10 million USD to close down the station just so Jungkook could film in peace.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) acquired Grand Central Station for 33 million USD in May 2020. Anyone wishing to film on the premises must obtain permission from the MTA. The process involves completing an application. Only then will the MTA and Metro-North Railroad grant permission for the space to become a filming set. Sources indicate that the cost of shutting down the station for filming could range from 5 million to 10 million USD. This is due to the expenses per hour and additional costs like permits, estimated at around 500,000 USD.

Jungkook was spotted filming something at Grand Central Station in New York

News of Calvin Klein‘s actions sparked significant buzz on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter). Many admired the brand’s attention to detail and commitment to excellence, which spurred them to invest a substantial amount of money to ensure Jungkook‘s ad would turn out great.

Learn more about Grand Central Station in the video below.

Grand Central Terminal Walking Tour

Calvin Klein sees it as a worthwhile investment

The ad itself features Jungkook looking stylish in an oversized black half-sleeved shirt and black jeans, with the shirt unbuttoned to reveal his chiseled torso. A silver chain complemented his outfit. The ad ends with Jungkook beside a piano in the middle of Grand Central Station, with the location’s iconic clock in the background.

Jungkook‘s participation in this high-profile ad campaign comes just after his enlistment in the Republic of Korea Army on December 12, 2023, where he has been assigned to the 5th Infantry Division. He’s expected to return to the entertainment industry in June 2025, alongside fellow BTS member Jimin. Jimin enlisted with Jungkook on December 12, 2023. They signed up for the South Korean military’s “동반입대” (dongbanipdae) or buddy system, allowing them to train and live together for the duration of their service.

The fact that Calvin Klein was willing to spend so much money on Jungkook‘s campaign indicates they see it as a worthwhile investment. After all, despite his absence from the entertainment scene due to military service, Jungkook remains overwhelmingly popular. The brand will surely recoup their investment thanks to his star power. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Calvin Klein’s investment paid off handsomely, don’t you think? Source: Instagram/@calvinklein.

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Jungkook Heats Up Valentine’s Day in New Calvin Klein Ad

On February 14, 2024, Calvin Klein unveiled a new ad campaign featuring BTS‘s Jungkook, capturing hearts worldwide on Valentine’s Day. The campaign video, set in New York’s iconic Grand Central Station, showcases Jungkook‘s charisma and style, aligned with the brand’s Spring/Summer 2024 theme of self-assurance, fun, and allure. Iggy Pop‘s 1977 classic “The Passenger” plays in the background, adding a timeless vibe to the seven-second snippet that quickly went viral on X (formerly Twitter).

Jungkook has been a brand ambassador for Calvin Klein since March 2023. His previous campaigns, including the 2023 Fall collection, have generated significant revenue for the American brand. Following the announcement of Jungkook as the face of Calvin Klein, the stock prices of its owning corporation, PVH Corp, saw a remarkable 20% increase. This highlights the immense impact of his endorsement.

In the monochrome video, Jungkook is seen wandering through a deserted Grand Central Station. He’s wearing a black shirt—unbuttoned to reveal his muscled torso—paired with matching jeans and a silver chain around his neck. He casts smoldering looks at the camera while descending an escalator and sauntering towards a piano in the middle of the station. This underscores the campaign’s edgy yet sophisticated aesthetic.

Jungkook set social media ablaze

The video set social media ablaze, with fans and followers lauding Jungkook‘s charisma and visuals. Comments like “He’s back to set our hearts on fire” reflect the excitement over the idol’s latest work. This reaction is partly because Jungkook has been serving in the South Korean military since December 2023. Active-duty soldiers can only use their phones at specific times. Ergo, fans don’t hear from him as often as they used to.

Despite his absence, BTS’s golden maknae continues to influence and inspire. Releases like this will whet ARMYs’ appetites for Jungkook content until he’s discharged in June 2025. Before his return, the older BTS members will make their respective comebacks to the entertainment scene. Jin is expected to return in June 2024 and j-hope in October 2024.

This campaign serves as a reminder of Jungkook’s enduring star power, even as he fulfills his national duties. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This was one of several photos the brand posted after the video went viral. Source: Instagram/@calvinklein.

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BTS’s RM Is Playing Saxophone in the Military Band

A recent photo of BTS‘s RM in the military has captivated fans and the public alike. Shared on February 15, it shows RM clutching a saxophone and wearing the distinctive red uniform of the Army Band.

@purplemoon.92

𝐍𝐚𝐦𝐣𝐨𝐨𝐧 𝟏𝟓𝐭𝐡 𝐃𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐝. #bts #btsmilitary #rm #namu 𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐣𝐨𝐨𝐧

♬ Burning Up (Fire) – BTS

About the Army Band

South Korea has several military bands, each linked to a different branch of the South Korean Armed Forces, such as the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, and Navy. Each branch has its own central band, along with additional regional bands and specialized ensembles within the military’s music departments.

These bands participate in international military music festivals and perform at military functions, national ceremonies, and official events. The red uniform, exclusive to band members, distinguishes them from other military personnel. Performing in the Army Band allows service members to use their talents while serving the country.

To join a military band in South Korea, individuals must audition. Applicants typically need a background in music, which might include formal education or performance experience. RM, with his background as the leader of BTS, certainly fits the bill. During the audition, would-be band members must prove they’re exceptionally skilled in playing an instrument or singing. Their suitability for military service might also be evaluated. Successful candidates then undergo basic military training before being assigned to the band.

@ems28090

rm message #foryoupage❤️❤️ #everyone #fypシ #tiktok #trinding #bts #armybts #btsarmy #bts #viral #rm

♬ Wild Flower (with youjeen) – RM

RM does his best to stay connected

Despite having his hands full performing in the military band, RM has done his best to stay connected to the fans. On the 11th, he reached out via Weverse, inquiring about ARMYs’ well-being and talking about how he’s adjusting to military life. He wrote, “Are ARMYs doing well?” He continued, “I’ve also arrived at my unit and am adapting well. I ate rice cake soup for the Lunar New Year. I’ve been resting a little since it’s Seollal and I’m doing well. Another Seollal will have to pass before I can see you all, but I’ll do well with my time.”

RM ended by writing, “I believe that it will be another place of learning and experiences. Whenever, wherever, always be healthy. And I wish that you will experience a lot more good things than bad things. Hoping that our connection will continue to go on, I hope you receive a lot of New Year blessings!”

RM enlisted on December 11 alongside fellow BTS member V and was named an elite trainee at his military graduation last month. He’s currently assigned to the 15th Infantry Division in Hwacheon, Gangwon-do. RM’s participation in the military band allows him to express his passion for music in a new setting. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: RM’s new role is perfect for someone like him. Source: Kpopping.

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BTS’s Jimin Says He and Jungkook Are Doing Well in Latest Weverse Post

On the first day of the Lunar New Year, BTS‘s Jimin took time out from his military duties to connect with fans on Weverse. Aside from his group’s fearless leader RM, he was the only other member of BTS who was able to greet fans on this special occasion.

Jimin enlisted with fellow BTS member Jungkook on December 12, 2023. They signed up for the South Korean military’s “동반입대” (dongbanipdae) or buddy system. This unique program allows soldiers to enlist with close friends or relatives, receive training together, and be assigned to the same residential unit. In his message, the “Like Crazy” singer reassured fans that he and Jungkook are alright.

@gracewagan88

Jimin’s greetings for Lunar New Year 💜 missing him dearly 🥺 #jimin #bts #bangtan #btsarmy

♬ Love wins all – IU

He wrote, “ARMYs, it’s Seollal! Have a happy Seollal, and this year too, be healthy and don’t get hurt or sick. I hope this year, you will only be happy. Jungkook and I are doing well, so don’t worry too much, and I’ll come again! Eat lots of delicious things and don’t diet today.” This message not only updated fans on his and Jungkook‘s well-being but also encouraged them to enjoy the festivities without restraint.

Lunar New Year, or Seollal in Korea, is a cornerstone of Korean culture, emphasizing family bonds and cultural heritage. It falls on the first day of the lunar calendar, typically in late January or early February. Jimin made the effort to write to fans during Seollal while serving in the military. That he did so underscores how important the fans and their happiness are to him.

@alcawena74

Mimi Trending today for His greeting for Lunar year to Fans#JIMIN

♬ With you – Jimin & HA SUNG WOON

Get in touch with Jimin while he’s away

In related news, fans discovered that Jimin‘s father had installed a transparent letterbox outside Magnate, the café he runs in Busan. Fans used to visit the café and leave gifts and letters for the singer there, even before his enlistment. When Jimin’s father installed the letterbox, fans realized that it was his way of ensuring fans could still get in touch with Jimin while he’s away. What’s more, he would most likely be the one to deliver the letters in the letterbox to the idol. Not many parents or relatives of idols would do something like this, so they really appreciated the gesture.

Jimin‘s Lunar New Year message and the news of the letterbox at Magnate café touched fans deeply. As Jimin and Jungkook continue serving together, their efforts to stay connected with fans do not go unnoticed, reinforcing the strong bond between BTS and the ARMY. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: ARMYs were pleased that Jimin found time to greet them. Source: Instagram/@jikook_angelic.

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Will BTS V Return in ‘Jinny’s Kitchen’ Season 2?

Kim Taehyung discussed what it was like filming in a different country for the reality TV show 'Jinny's Kitchen'

The anticipation for “Jinny’s Kitchen” Season 2 is mounting, with fans eagerly awaiting news about the cast lineup and filming details. As reports indicate that the show will begin filming in Iceland in mid-March, viewers are curious to know whether BTS member V will return for the highly anticipated second season.

‘Jinny’s Kitchen’ Season 2 Officially Announced

“Jinny’s Kitchen” is a spin-off of the hit reality show “Youn’s Kitchen,” featuring a new restaurant venture led by Lee Seo Jin. The first season of “Jinny’s Kitchen” garnered widespread acclaim, thanks to its engaging storyline and star-studded cast, which included Park Seo Joon, Jung Yu Mi, Choi Woo Shik, and BTS’s V as restaurant employees.

While details about the cast for Season 2 have been shrouded in secrecy, fans have been eager to learn whether V will reprise his role in the upcoming season. However, with V currently fulfilling his mandatory military service obligations, speculation has been rife about his potential involvement in the show’s second installment.

In response to inquiries about the cast lineup for Season 2, a representative from tvN confirmed that Park Seo Joon, Jung Yu Mi, and Choi Woo Shik will indeed be returning for the new season. This announcement delighted fans who have grown fond of the chemistry and camaraderie among the cast members.

Will Kim Taehyung Return in ‘Jinny’s Kitchen’?

However, V’s absence from the confirmed cast list has left fans wondering about his participation in the upcoming season. As the only other cast member from the first season, V’s potential return would undoubtedly add to the excitement surrounding the show’s return.

Despite V’s current military service commitments, fans remain hopeful that he may still make a surprise appearance in “Jinny’s Kitchen” Season 2. The dynamic interactions and entertaining antics of the original cast contributed significantly to the show’s success, and V’s presence would undoubtedly be warmly welcomed by viewers.

As anticipation continues to build for the release of “Jinny’s Kitchen” Season 2, fans eagerly await further updates on the cast lineup and any potential surprises that may be in store for the upcoming season. Until then, viewers can look forward to enjoying the culinary adventures and heartwarming moments that “Jinny’s Kitchen” is known for, with or without BTS’s V.

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Park Hyung-sik Talks About BTS’s V, Military Service on ‘Salon Drip 2’

On February 13, a clip from Salon Drip 2, featuring Park Hyung-sik, went viral, capturing the attention of Hallyu fans worldwide. In the clip, the actor mentioned his good friend, BTS‘s V, aka Kim Taehyung. Salon Drip 2 is a comedy talk show hosted by Jang Do-yeon, who invites celebrities to sit down with her and talk about their current or upcoming projects. Park Hyung-sik and Park Shin-hye appeared on the show to promote their ongoing medical and slice-of-life drama, Doctor Slump.

During the interview, Park Hyung-sik brought up V, who is currently serving in the South Korean military. He shared that the Wooga Squad, a group of South Korean stars including himself, V, Peakboy, Park Seo-joon, and Choi Woo-shik, gathered before V’s enlistment to talk about their experiences. This close-knit group of friends, known for their unwavering support for each other, won hearts when they went on a holiday together for the reality show In the SOOP: Friendcation.

Park Hyung-sik, who began his mandatory military service on June 10, 2019, entered the Nonsan Army Recruit Training Center in South Chungcheong Province for basic training. He served in the Special Duty Team (SDT) of the South Korean military’s Capital Defense Command as an active duty soldier. When he appeared on the variety show Real Man, he showcased his shooting skills and received positive feedback. That inspired him to join the SDT, believing he could put his skills to good use there.

EP.28 Doctor Slump Park Shinhye Park Hyung Sik | Salon Drip2

Park Hyung-sik on the SDT

When his turn to enlist came, V followed in Park Hyung-sik’s footsteps by joining the SDT. V underwent a rigorous selection process, including document checks, interviews, and physical tests, before being accepted into the unit.

On Salon Drip 2, Jang Do-yeon asked Park Hyung-sik if he still talks about his time in the military. That was when the actor mentioned V. He said, “Taehyung–ah joined the military last December. We met up before he joined the army. There are military stories that people might not want to hear. My unit is the hardest. We talked about that for about two to three hours.” He also noted that the other members of the Wooga Squad tried to console V, suggesting he would have it easier than them.

V was deployed to the “Ssangyong Unit” in the 2nd Corps of the South Korean military after completing an three-week additional training at the Army General Administration School. The story Park Hyung-sik shared on Salon Drip 2 highlights the bravery he and V displayed by enlisting in the SDT. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The actor revealed that he and V met up with their other friends for a bonding sesh before the BTS member’s enlistment. Source: X/@kisgnuyh.

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BTS’s Producer Said to Be Dating Weather Reporter

BTS‘s music producer Pdogg is reportedly dating weather reporter Kim Ga-young. South Korean media outlets reported on the rumors last Tuesday, February 13. The couple has been seen going out on dates and introducing each other as partners to their friends, according to SpoTV News. 

Pdogg, a fixture at BigHit Music, has been instrumental in BTS‘s success. He composed and produced many of their hit songs, including “No More Dream,” “Fire,” “Spring Day,” and “Fake Love.” His contributions have earned him high praise from the band. V has called him “the eighth BTS member” while Jungkook labeled him a “living legend.” 

Beyond his work with BTS as a group, Pdogg has also produced music for individual members. He worked on D-DAY, the first full-length album released by SUGA under the name Agust D. He also contributed to Jimin’s first EP FACE. Outside of BTS and BigHit Music, Pdogg has worked with other HYBE artists, such as ENHYPEN and LE SSERAFIM member Huh Yunjin. 

BTS Call Me Brother (Immortal Songs 2) I KBS WORLD TV 201114

Pdogg and his other half

When BTS was on Immortal Songs 2: Singing the Legend,  RM praised Pdogg. The leader of BTS said, “He’s got to be No. 1 in copyright royalties in Korea, right?” Indeed, Pdogg has led Korea’s music royalties list for the past five years. He also received the grand prize at the KOMCA Awards for five consecutive years.

Kim Ga-young, the other half of this power couple, has been the weather forecaster for MBC’s Newsdesk since April 2021. Her career also spans presenting for radio shows and sporting events. She has appeared on entertainment shows, and has had a regular spot on the SBS variety show Kick a Goal from its second season in 2022.

Regarding the reports of Pdogg‘s relationship, BigHit told Yonhap News that it “cannot confirm [their relationship] as it concerns personal matters.” It wouldn’t be a bad thing if the news were true. After all, Pdogg’s contributions to the K-pop industry have made plenty of fans happy. He deserves to be happy too. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Their relationship has progressed to the point where they’re meeting each other’s friends. Source: X/@PixyEditzz.

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BTS’s ‘Spring Day’ Reaches Seventh Year on MelOn Top 100

This emotive ballad has been on MelOn’s Daily Top 100 chart since it dropped on February 13, 2017, marking seven consecutive years on the chart. No other song has maintained such a consistent presence on the chart, operated by Korea’s largest streaming service. As the title track of You Never Walk Alone, the repackaged version of their second full-length album, “Spring Day” marked a significant shift for BTS. This release saw them transitioning from their earlier, more hip-hop-driven singles to a more introspective sound.

BigHit Music issued a press release about the song. “The band’s hope to make a song that will be played for a long time among Korean people has become true. It remains with us with a resonance that goes beyond music,” said the agency.

BTS (방탄소년단) ‘봄날 (Spring Day)’ Official MV

About ‘Spring Day’

During an appearance on Immortal Songs 2: Singing the Legend, members SUGA and RM shared the personal experiences that inspired “Spring Day.” SUGA claimed the song is based on how he felt when he lost a friend, an experience he deemed relatable. He believed that’s why people embraced the song the way they did. “Isn’t that common, though? Doesn’t everyone go through this loss at one point in life?”

RM said the idea for the song popped into his head while he was hanging out at the Han River. He wrote the lyrics while thinking about the friends he left behind in Ilsan. “I had friendships that meant a lot to me back in the day. But once I moved to Seoul and started my traineeship, we kind of drifted apart and I eventually lost them. So I thought of them as stars in the sky, floating around me.” 

RM Was Thinking About His Star-Like Friends (Immortal Songs 2)

The song’s poignant lyrics led fans to believe it’s about the lives lost in Korea’s 2014 Sewol Ferry disaster. RM acknowledged that “the song can be interpreted in many ways,” allowing it to serve as an anthem for all things lost but cherished.

As all members of BTS are currently serving in the military, “Spring Day” has taken on a new meaning for ARMYs. This anthem of longing and missing someone mirrors the sentiments of fans worldwide, who are most likely playing it on repeat, eagerly awaiting BTS’s return as a full group in 2025. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This Daesang-winning song holds the record for the most streams, most unique listeners, most likes, and longest charting duration in the history of MelOn. Source: X/@Pk_bts_land.

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BTS’s V Completes SDT Training at Army General Administration School

Earlier this month, Kim Taehyung, aka BTS’s V, completed the second half of his military training at the Army Administrative School. Prior to this, V had undergone basic training at the Nonsan Training Center on January 16, alongside BTS leader RM. Both were recognized as elite soldiers of their graduating batch for their exceptional performance.

After completing basic training, he took an intensive three-week course, which started on January 18. This course is for members of the Special Duty Team (SDT) of the Army’s Capital Defense Command. V’s training regimen included close-quarters combat, live ammunition firing at automatic targets, military police service, rappelling, and more. All these took place at the anti-terrorism training center.

After he finished his advanced training, V was assigned to the “Ssangyong Unit” in the 2nd Corps of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Army. The 2nd Corps is under the Ground Operations Command. V began his service in the military police special task force, directly overseen by the headquarters of the 2nd Corps in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province. For security reasons, detailed public information about the exact activities of this military unit is limited.

Newly minted military police officer V reporting for duty

V maintained a strong presence in K-pop

Even while serving in the military, V has managed to maintain a strong presence in the entertainment industry. For instance, he made a cameo appearance in IU‘s “Love Wins All” music video, where he demonstrated his acting prowess. Furthermore, his solo album Layover has seen remarkable success, amassing 1.115 billion streams on Spotify. 

This achievement doesn’t just highlight his musical talent. It also establishes Layover as the fastest Korean-language album to reach this milestone. It’s the second fastest among K-pop solo albums. The fact that the album amassed that many streams demonstrates his ability to influence the music scene while serving. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: V has become a full-fledged member of the SDT, like he wanted. Source: YouTube/@KOREANOWyna.

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BTS RM Pens Sincere Letter to Fans for Lunar New Year

On the second day of the Lunisolar calendar, which marks the celebration of the Lunar New Year or Seollal in South Korea, BTS leader RM conveyed his heartfelt greetings to fans worldwide through the global fandom platform Weverse.

Kim Namjoon’s Hopeful Letter to Fans for Lunar New Year

In his thoughtful letter, RM expressed warm wishes for the auspicious occasion of Seollal, a significant cultural festival celebrated with family gatherings, traditional foods, and ancestral rites. His message reflected the spirit of unity and joy associated with the holiday, resonating with fans who cherish both BTS’s music and cultural traditions.

“Since joining the troop I belong to, I have been spending my time adjusting well to it.
I also ate rice cake soup.
Since it’s New Year’s Day, I’m taking a break and having a good time.

“Though I have to spend another New Year’s Day before I can meet you all,
I’ll do my best in this time.
I believe it will be another place of learning and experience.

“Stay healthy anytime, anywhere.
I hope there are way more good things than bad things too.

“My hope is for our fate to continue.”

Additionally, RM provided updates on his recent activities and whereabouts, offering fans a glimpse into his life during his military enlistment. Despite being away from the spotlight, RM’s dedication to maintaining connections with fans highlights the special bond between BTS and their ARMY, reinforcing their commitment to mutual support and appreciation.

RM’s letter also served as a reminder of his ongoing military service, which began on December 10, 2023. Despite his enlistment, RM’s outstanding performance during basic military training has garnered recognition, earning him the prestigious title of “Elite Trainee” within the “27th Recruit Training Regiment.” This acknowledgment reflects RM’s dedication and discipline, qualities that have endeared him to fans worldwide beyond his role as a musician.

Overall, RM’s heartfelt greetings and updates on Seollal provided fans with a moment of joy and connection during the festive season, while also showcasing his continued commitment to both his military duties and his role as a beloved member of BTS.

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