BTS‘ Jungkook has always been a figure of admiration and intrigue among fans. But like many K-pop idols, he doesn’t share a lot of personal information with them. As a result, there has been plenty of speculation about various aspects of his life, including his religious beliefs. In a recent Weverse live broadcast, he surprised fans by answering one of their long-standing questions.
Jungkook: I don’t have any religion. My father’s family are Christians and my mother’s Buddhists. But starting from my generation, there wasn’t anything taken for granted about religion. There wasn’t any pressure on me to have any religion.
— Golden Times (@JJK_Times) August 3, 2023
Jungkook‘s religious views have been a subject of curiosity for many. Some have speculated that he might be Christian based on specific details and observations. For instance, Jungkook attended the School of Performing Arts in Seoul (SOPA), a faith-based school known as “South Korea’s first and only Christian-based high school with special purposes in performing arts.” The school’s curriculum includes mandatory services every Wednesday afternoon and a Bible-teaching class once a week.
SOPA’s star, #jungkook from BTS pic.twitter.com/D2hM1YFAb2
— jungoo's old pics (@jkoldpics) January 13, 2022
Additionally, fans noticed that Jungkook prays before meals. Although that practice isn’t exclusive to Christianity, it’s commonly associated with it. Once, Jungkook covered the classic Christmas song “O Holy Night.” Its lyrics reference Christ’s birth, which fueled these speculations.
BTS Jungkook ‘Oh Holy Night’ Lyrics
But Jungkook‘s religious practices have not been confined to Christianity alone. During Chuseok, he prayed like a Buddhist and has also been spotted at the Buddhist temple Ganghwa Bomunsa. He also wore a Mala beaded bracelet on several occasions, such as live broadcasts, music video shoots, and photoshoots. A Mala beaded bracelet is from Buddhist and Hindi traditions and has meditative and spiritual significance. It can have up to 54 crystals, gemstones, seeds, or wood beads. Some believe that Jungkook could be Muslim, although not much evidence supports this claim.
Jungkook’s religious beliefs
During his recent Weverse Live, Jungkook finally addressed the topic of religion, explaining that he isn’t religious since he was never pressured to be. He revealed that his father’s family is Christian, but his mother’s was Buddhist. This revelation helps explain why Jungkook appears to follow some practices from both religions. He identifies as non-denominational or non-religious, which means he embraces aspects of different faiths without adhering to a specific one.
we been know bts members are mostly to agnostic side/don’t have religion like thats not a new talk in town, first with namjoon, then tae, jungkook also all members agreeing. i need people in/outside fandom to stop moving weird on it lol pic.twitter.com/5zaKTnQ5WQ
— bed (@bedakkai) August 4, 2023
Jungkook‘s openness about his religious beliefs reflects a broader trend within BTS. Members like RM have publicly stated their lack of religious beliefs. The group’s leader has confirmed that he is an atheist, while SUGA has said he has no religion but prays during challenging times.
Joon, Yoongi, Tae and now Jungkook are officially confirmed to be atheist/having no religion. This is why I stan them so hard. Everyday I'm so grateful they aren't those super religious type of celebs that try to force religion/god down people's throats. BTS never disappoint me😭
— tara🐾 (@jinslovestory) August 3, 2023
Jungkook‘s frank discussion about religion adds a new layer to understanding the Korean superstar’s personality and values. His approach to religion is personal and nuanced, reflecting a thoughtful and open-minded perspective.
jungkook was Very sweet and respectful when addressing his religion and there is absolutely no reason why we all shouldnt be showing him the same respect regarding it what he believes / doesnt believe is entirely up to him just like how it is entirely up to u
— ً (@goldenmelodist) August 3, 2023
In a world where every detail of a celebrity’s life is dissected and scrutinized, Jungkook‘s honesty and willingness to share his thoughts on such a sensitive topic are commendable. His words remind us that personal beliefs are multifaceted and unique to each individual. Embracing different aspects of various faiths can be a meaningful and enriching experience. – K-Pop News Writer
I'm not reading anything into this bc there's so much nuance & individuality in these types of spaces but, as an atheist, it's just validating to see someone w/a huge platform openly say something like this. "I don't have a religion." Me neither, Jungkook. Thank you for sharing. https://t.co/JCC8kYiWeY
— MONOCHROME Jung Hoseok⁷ (@SierraNicoIe) August 3, 2023
Featured Image: Jungkook’s musings on religion caused a stir, but the man himself is an unbothered king. Source: Twitter/@boraboravie.