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 Says He and Jungkook Are Doing Well in Latest Weverse Post

Jimin

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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BTS-Inspired K-Drama ‘Begins Youth’ Stirs Excitement With Full Trailer

Several years ago, HYBE’s Bang Si-hyuk broke the news that a K-drama inspired by the worldwide phenomenon BTS was in the works. “We are working with a famous Korean production company to produce a drama where the theme is based on the way BTS looks at the world,” he said at a press conference. At the time, HYBE Labels’ Chairman told reporters the drama—now titled Begins ≠ Youth—was slated for a 2020 release. However, due to circumstances beyond the agency’s control, it will premiere later this year instead.

Big Hit Corporate Briefing with the Community (2H 2019)

The inspiration for Begins ≠ Youth comes from the BTS Universe (BU). Created by HYBE when the agency was still called BigHit Music, the BU tells the stories of characters based on the BTS members. It was introduced in 2015 with the release of the “I NEED U” MV and has since expanded into a multi-platform narrative. It’s a complex fictional narrative that spans across some of BTS’s albums, books, short films, webtoons, and more.

BTS STORYLINE SUMMARY + EXPLAINED | 2020 UPDATE

The trailer references old BTS songs

The drama’s storyline follows seven boys through their tumultuous school years. Each boy faces their own set of challenges like abandonment, family obligations, loss, poverty, rejection, and violence.

Its full-length trailer dropped for the first time last November and resurfaced a few days ago, reigniting the ARMY’s excitement. The trailer is rich with references to BTS’s past work, including the “Spring Day” MV. It also shines a light on each character and the problems they face. Despite the dark tone of the trailer, it ends with a shot of the seven boys, highlighting their friendship. The BTS song “Mikrokosmos” can also be heard in the background of the trailer’s last frame.

Its full-length trailer dropped for the first time last November and resurfaced a few days ago, reigniting the ARMY’s excitement. The trailer is rich with references to BTS’s past work, including the “Spring Day” MV. It also shines a light on each character and the problems they face. Despite the dark tone of the trailer, it ends with a shot of the seven boys, highlighting their friendship. The BTS song “Mikrokosmos” can also be heard in the background of the trailer’s last frame.

Begins ≠ Youth (2024) Official Full Trailer | BTS UNIVERSE

While the exact release date remains unannounced, the anticipation for Begins ≠ Youth continues to build. As the members are still serving in the military, the drama will surely tide ARMYs over till all seven are officially discharged. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Featured Image: Fans paid more attention to the trailer when it resurfaced because they miss the members. Source: YouTube/@KdramaZone.

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‘Squid Game’ Star Admits Loving BTS Jungkook Latest Single

There is little doubt that everybody loves BTS. As it turns out, even “Squid Game” star Lee Jung Jae loves the boy group as he admits to having Jungkook latest single on repeat!

Lee Jung Jae Loves Listening to Jungkook Latest Single

The revelation that Lee Jung Jae, star of the hit series “Squid Game,” is a fan of BTS’s Jungkook’s latest single “Standing Next to You” has sparked excitement among both K-pop and K-drama enthusiasts. Lee Jung Jae’s admission adds another layer to the multifaceted relationship between the worlds of K-pop and K-dramas, showcasing the mutual admiration and support between industry legends.

In the greetings video released by Artist Company, Lee Jung Jae shared that Jungkook’s song is the one that gives him strength, emphasizing the emotional resonance and impact of the track. This endorsement not only highlights Jungkook’s musical prowess but also underscores the universality of BTS’s music, transcending genres and demographics to touch the hearts of diverse audiences.

Interestingly, despite his admiration for Jungkook’s music, Lee Jung Jae shares a personal connection with another BTS member, V. This revelation adds a personal touch to Lee Jung Jae’s appreciation for BTS, showcasing the interconnectedness of the entertainment industry and the genuine friendships that can form between artists.

‘Squid Game’ Season 2 Shares First Teaser

Meanwhile, as “Squid Game 2” gears up for its highly anticipated release, the first stills offer tantalizing glimpses into the continuation of the gripping storyline. Protagonist Sung Ki Hoon’s decision to remain in Korea sets the stage for a deeper exploration of his character and motivations, hinting at new challenges and revelations to come.

The unveiling of the enigmatic Front Man without his mask promises to peel back the layers of mystery surrounding the character, providing insight into his role in the deadly games. Additionally, the return of the Salesman, portrayed by Gong Yoo, adds intrigue and complexity to the narrative, signaling the continuation of the high-stakes drama that captivated audiences worldwide.

Overall, Lee Jung Jae’s endorsement of Jungkook’s music and the anticipation surrounding “Squid Game 2” serve as testaments to the enduring popularity and impact of both BTS and the groundbreaking Netflix series. As fans eagerly await the next chapters in these respective stories, the convergence of music and drama continues to captivate audiences and cement the legacy of these cultural phenomena.

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Jungkook, Soyeon, and Vernon Become Full Members of KOMCA

BTS‘s Jungkook, SEVENTEEN‘s Vernon, and (G)I-DLE‘s Soyeon became full members of the Korea Music Copyright Association (KOMCA) on January 31. Jungkook is now credited as the songwriter of 22 songs and versions on KOMCA. “Dreamers” and “Dreamers (Live Version)” have been added to his portfolio. He has also had a hand in writing some of his group’s hits, including “Magic Shop” and “Run BTS.” Jungkook joins his fellow BTS members j-hope, RM, and SUGA as full members.

BTS Jung Kook becomes KOMCA regular member

Vernon is the second member of SEVENTEEN after Woozi to be promoted as a full member of KOMCA. With 88 songwriting credits to his name, he’s also the member with the second most contributions to the group’s discography, after Woozi. Vernon wrote lyrics for hits such as “Mansae,” “Left & Right,” and “_WORLD.” He also helped compose the music for “_WORLD.”

Meanwhile, (G)I-DLE’s Soyeon was acknowledged for her role in writing, composing, and producing her group’s hits. These include “Tomboy,” “Queencard,” and “Nxde.”

KOMCA plays a key role

KOMCA came on the scene in 1964. It plays a key role in administering public performance, broadcasting rights, and mechanical recording and reproduction rights of musical works within South Korea. It also compiles all credits of artists in musical works and announces its list of full and junior members annually. To become a full member, artists must meet several criteria. They must earn at least 30M KRW per year in royalties, receive approval from the board of directors, and be a junior member for a minimum of three years. 

(G)I-DLE – ‘Nxde’ Recording Behind

KOMCA is the second collective rights management organization for musical works in Asia. It joined the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in 1979. KOMCA became an associate member of the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC) in 1987. It became a full member in 1985. 

G-Dragon from BIGBANG was the first K-pop idol to become a full member of KOMCA, followed by BLACKPINK‘s Jennie and Jisoo. Other idols who made the cut include BTOB’s Hyunsik, IU, Stray Kids’ Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han (3RACHA), and WINNER’s Mino and Seungyoon. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Congratulations, Jungkook, Seoyeon, and Vernon! Sources: Facebook/@KOMCAGLobal, X/@_candyclover, X/@17thCent, and X/@VeraHsu1010.

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