Tag: BTS Jungkook

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BTS ARMY Reacts to Rumored Leak of Jungkook’s Military Diary

Jungkook

On January 20, the BTS fan community was rocked by news involving Jungkook, the group’s golden maknae. Jungkook, who enlisted in the South Korean military under the buddy system alongside bandmate Jimin, found himself at the center of an alleged privacy breach scandal.

A netizen using the handle @DavyWer claimed on X (formerly Twitter) that a senior member of Jungkook’s military unit had leaked the idol’s military diary on Instagram. This diary, supposedly intended for an internal Korean military platform, wasn’t meant for public consumption. The netizen explained they found out about the leak through a friend from South Korea. They added that the senior responsible for it could face arrest and reprimand under military law.

X/@DavyWer

The senior’s intention for leaking the diary, whether malicious or otherwise, remains unknown. However, BTS fans, known for being fiercely protective of the members, have expressed concerns about Jungkook’s safety during his military service. The incident has sparked a broader discussion about the privacy of celebrities in general. It has also led to calls for restraint in sharing military-related content featuring celebrities, citing potential risks to their well-being.

Did Jungkook actually keep a diary?

However, some ARMYs suspect @DavyWer’s story is fake—as is the diary allegedly belonging to Jungkook. They raised doubts about its authenticity, noting that it’s not handwritten and questioning its style and tone. This skepticism has led to the belief that it could have been written by anyone, as it doesn’t actually sound like the “Standing Next to You” singer wrote it.

It’s important to note that South Korean men serving in the military are not required to keep diaries to be uploaded to a military platform. Military service in South Korea, mandatory for all male citizens, encompasses a variety of duties determined by the service branch and whether the duty is active or non-active. But keeping a diary isn’t part of these duties. This lends credence to the theory that @DavyWer’s story might actually be fake.

@hieroglyphs1

I can’t stop laughing #fyp #jungkook

♬ الصوت الأصلي – 🏛️A🏛️

This incident is not the first time rumors have circulated about Jungkook. Fans hope that he can complete his military service peacefully and without further unwarranted attention. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: News of the leak upset ARMYs until they realized it may be a hoax. Source: Weverse.

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Jimin and Jungkook Complete Basic Military Training

BTS’s Jimin and Jungkook have successfully completed their basic military training. They enlisted together under the buddy system in December last year. The completion ceremony, marking the end of their training, took place at the 5th Division’s Recruit Training Center on January 17.

X/@winnttaebear

Before the ceremony, Jimin wrote a heartfelt letter that was subsequently posted on Weverse. “A little over a month has passed. There are times when it feels like a long time, and there are times when it seems to go by quickly because Jungkook is next to me. It hasn’t been a long time but I already miss you a lot,” he began, addressing the fans.

“I say hello to the members on the pay phone, and Jungkook is also working hard in the military. He’s doing so well that the kids say, ‘As expected of Jungkook–hyung.’ He sticks with me and gives me a lot of support and strength,” Jimin added. “I’ll be going to my assigned military base soon, and I’ll adjust and try to do my best. ARMYs, please be careful not to catch a cold, don’t get sick, eat well, and think only good thoughts. Anyway, I’ll write to you when I get to the base. I love you!”

X/@JJK_Times

Jungkook also updated fans after the completion ceremony simply by writing one word (“Unity!”) on Weverse. He dominated social media trends after this brief message, with fans expressing their joy and relief at seeing him complete basic training safely. Finally, Jimin’s father posted some photos from the completion ceremony on the Instagram page of his café. The photos came with a message for ARMY, in which Jimin expressed gratitude for their love and support.

What will Jimin and Jungkook do next?

During the ceremony, Jimin received a commendation from his division commander, a prestigious award given to the unit’s top trainee. This commendation includes benefits like an early promotion and five-day, four-night vacation. This achievement reflects his exceptional performance across various aspects of military training, including discipline, leadership skills, physical fitness, and tactical knowledge.

Both Jimin and Jungkook were initially assigned to the 5th Infantry Division, where fellow BTS member Jin is serving. However, after a more detailed second classification was conducted, Jimin and Jungkook were identified as suitable for a more specialized function and were reassigned to an artillery battalion. An artillery battalion uses large-caliber guns, howitzers, and mortars to launch powerful, long-range attacks against enemy forces and fortifications.

@jiminahhlover0

I’m so proud of my favorite duo love you both🥰🥰🥰

♬ Military – Florews

Jimin and Jungkook may end up operating the K55 or K9 self-propelled artillery pieces. The K55, a mobile howitzer with a 155mm cannon, offers rapid deployment and robust fire support. The more advanced K9 Thunder has greater range, firing rate, and mobility, among other enhancements. It was once used to fire warning rounds near the Northern Limit Line in response to North Korean provocations.

As they continue their service, away from the stage but ever-present in the hearts of the ARMY, Jimin and Jungkook are showing that they’re dedicated soldiers as well as talented musicians. Fans, though concerned for their safety, are proud of their achievements and await their musical comeback in 2025. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Their families took these photos the day they graduated. Sources: X/@army_bts_do8es, X/@BTS7army1316, X/@sottjm.

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BIBI Admits Having BTS’ RM and Jungkook Phone Numbers

BIBI might be closer to some BTS members than initially expected. The “Animal Farm” singer revealed she has the personal numbers of RM and Jungkook. Hilariously, she then asked the idols’ fans not to be angry with her for having the contact.

BIBI Admits Having RM and Jungkook’s Contact Numbers on Her Phone

In a recent interview with Glamour magazine, singer BIBI gave fans a glimpse into her phone and shared details about her contacts, revealing that she has the numbers of BTS members RM and Jungkook.

When asked about the most famous person in her contacts, BIBI mentioned RM, but she hesitated, indicating that they might not be that close, and humorously added, “We’re not that close,” while expressing uncertainty about whether RM still uses the same number.

BIBI then disclosed that she also has Jungkook’s contact, another BTS member, in her phone. However, she playfully insisted that she is not close with either of them, addressing ARMY (BTS’s fanbase) and jokingly saying, “ARMY, don’t come for me.” She quickly clarified herself, stating that she didn’t want any haters and expressing her love for ARMY.

The revelation of having RM and Jungkook’s contacts sparked interest and excitement among fans. However, some ARMY members expressed their frustration playfully, pointing out that BIBI has had the members’ contact information all this time, yet there hasn’t been any indication of a collaboration song. The desire for collaborations between popular artists is common among fans, and the playful complaints from ARMYs reflected their anticipation for such a collaboration.

BTS, including RM and Jungkook, is currently serving in the military. Despite the physical distance and their busy schedules, fans are always hopeful for future collaborations that could bring together diverse talents within the music industry. BIBI’s candid revelation about having BTS members’ contacts added a lighthearted moment to the interview, showcasing the friendly dynamics between artists within the industry.

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Watch: BTS Shares Rm, V, Jimin and Jungkook’s Military Entrance Ceremony

All seven members of BTS reunite before the enlistment of RM, V, Jimin, and Jungkook. Credit: Twitter/BTS

In an almost four-minute Bangtan Bomb clip, BTS shared the last moments of RM, V, Jimin and Jungkook before officially starting their mandatory military service. 

The heartwarming video showed the group’s leader and the maknae (youngest) line saying their goodbyes at the entrance ceremony. To recall, RM and V first entered the military on December 11th, while Jimin and Jungkook followed on December 12th. 

ARMYs, the group’s fanbase, were even more emotional seeing the older members Jin, Suga and J-Hope, who have already started their service, send off the remaining members. 

On their official X account, the members were seen striking a pose in an OT7 photo.  “Have a nice trip. Fighting,” the caption read. 

Moreover, Jin also shared photos in his personal Instagram account. Together with RM and V, the singer wrote: “Go and come back safely without getting hurt, my babies.” Meanwhile, for his photo with Jimin and Jungkook, Jin wrote: “I thought it’d be funny. But tears are…”

Furthermore, the footage also showed HYBE Chairman and producer Bang Si Hyuk preparing the necessary essentials for the idols. In a father-like gesture, Bang PD gifted the boys some face cream and hot packs before their departure.

As promised by the “Dynamite” singers, the group will return with complete members in 2025.

ARMYs’ promise to wait for BTS

With all the seven members now fulfilling their duties, ARMYs, overwhelmed with emotions, express their promise to wait for the K-pop powerhouse. The dedicated fandom trended the phrase “See you in 2025” after the members’ last content. 

On social media, fans showered the boys with well wishes and a healthy service. “Our paths will cross again. Until then, take care of yourself, serve well and come back safely!, one fan said.

https://twitter.com/ChartObsessed7/status/1734148042570514699

 

While some fans are saddened with the maknae line enlisting, some ARMYs remain optimistic especially with Jin’s nearing dischargment. Since he started his service in December 2022, the eldest member will finally be back in June 2024.

Featured image: All seven members of BTS reunite before the enlistment of RM, V, Jimin, and Jungkook. Credit: Twitter/BTS

 

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These Are the K-Pop Songs That Made It to Rolling Stone’s ‘Best Songs of 2023’

NewJeans poses for their 2024 Season's Greetings. Credit: Twitter/NewJeans

Several K-pop tracks have earned a place on Rolling Stone‘s prestigious list of “Best Songs of 2023,” underscoring the genre’s growing influence on the global music scene.

Of particular significance is NewJeans‘ exceptional achievement as the sole K-pop group featured in both the “Best Albums of 2023” and “Best Songs of 2023” categories by Rolling Stone. 

On December 1, the authoritative music media outlet unveiled its highly-anticipated list for “The 100 Best Songs of 2023.” For the first time, a total of nine K-pop releases were featured in the list. 

NewJeans‘ pre-released track and title song, “Super Shy,“ from their 2nd mini-album Get Up, secured an impressive 6th position. Notably this marked the highest-ranking K-pop song on the list. According to Rolling Stone, the particular track was a “breakthrough” for the girl group. “The song is one of the purest pop thrills of the year, with a dreamy melody,” they added. “In true K-pop fashion, the accompanying music video is just as captivating.” 

Prior to this ranking, NewJeans’ Get Up also secured the 33rd position in Rolling Stones “The 100 Best Album of 2023.” 

Other K-pop songs that made it to Rolling Stone’s list

Meanwhile, SEVENTEEN‘s “Super” claimed the 47th position. The title track from their 10th mini-album FML is the second-highest among K-pop songs. In their list, Rolling Stone praised the group’s inspiration drawn from Chinese mythological creature Sun Wukong. As well as using this as a metaphor for their impressive growth in their eight-year journey. 

Next K-pop songs that made it to the list are TWICE’s pre-released English single “Moonlight Sunrise,” from their 12th mini-album Ready to Be, which secured the 55th spot. 

Meanwhile, V of BTS earned the 58th position with his pre-released track “Rainy Days” from his first solo album Layover. With this, Min Hee-jin, the producer of NewJeans and CEO of Ador, is the only Korean producer with two songs on the chart. To note, she also helped produce V’s solo debut album. 

Other K-pop songs on the list include BLACKPINK Jisoo’s solo debut song “Flower” at 67th spot and FIFTY FIFTY’s viral song “Cupid“ at the 75th spot. Also part of the roundup are XG at 77th with their title track “Left Right” from their third single Shooting Star. 

Placing 95 and 99, respectively, are aespa’s “Spicy” and BTS Jungkook’s “Seven” feat. Latto. 

How do you feel about this ranking? Should there be more K-pop songs included in the list? 

Featured image: NewJeans poses for their 2024 Season’s Greetings. Credit: Twitter/NewJeans

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BTS Jungkook Reveals Cha Eun Woo’s Thoughtful Parting Gift

BTS’s Jungkook has received a special parting gift from his close friend ASTRO’s Cha Eun Woo, as he prepares for his upcoming military enlistment. The two idols, known for their close friendship, have often been seen supporting each other over the years.

Jungkook Reveals Sweet and Useful Parting Gift from Cha Eun Woo

During a surprise live broadcast on Weverse, Jungkook spent over an hour engaging with fans and discussing various topics, including his imminent military service. While talking about items he still needed to purchase before enlistment, Jungkook shared that Cha Eun Woo had given him a thoughtful parting gift. According to the BTS maknae, the ASTRO member gave him a watch that is commonly used by soldiers. The present was also accompanied by a letter, adding a personal touch to the gesture.

Although Jungkook didn’t disclose the brand name, it was suggested that the watch might be a G-Shock, a type of rugged watch produced by the Japanese brand Casio. G-Shock watches are known for their durability and ability to withstand mechanical stress, shock, and vibration, making them suitable for military use.

Fans have expressed their admiration for the warm friendship between Jungkook and Cha Eun Woo, highlighting the genuine and supportive bond they share. The personalized gift from Eun Woo demonstrates the depth of their connection and has resonated positively with fans, who appreciate the sincerity and thoughtfulness behind the gesture.

As Jungkook prepares for his military service, the supportive gestures from friends like Cha Eun Woo serve as a touching reminder of the strong camaraderie within the K-pop industry. Fans are eager to see how their favorite idols continue to support and uplift each other throughout various milestones in their careers and personal lives.

Jungkook recently surprised fans by dropping an emotional visualizer for his song “Hate You”. The video was also released ahead of his upcoming mandatory military enlistment.

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BigHit Music Shares Update on Military Enlistment of Remaining BTS Members

RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook for the group's 2022 Festa photos. Credit: Facebook/BTS

BigHit Music, the agency of K-pop juggernaut BTS, has unveiled additional details about the impending military enlistment of RM, V, Jimin, and Jungkook.

In a statement released on Tuesday, December 5, BigHit Music confirmed that the four members would be fulfilling their mandatory military service soon. According to the label, RM and V would follow their respective military enlistment procedures. Meanwhile, Jimin and Jungkook are scheduled to enlist simultaneously. 

Furthermore, the agency announced that there would be no official event on the day of their entry into the military. Additionally, BigHit Music emphasized that entrance ceremonies are private affairs that should only be attended solely by military personnel and the members’ families. With this, fans were strongly advised against visiting the site to prevent any potential issues like crowding. 

“Please convey your warm regards and encouragement in your hearts only,” the agency said. 

Moreover, BigHit Music  also cautioned fans against purchasing any tours or products that unlawfully utilized BTS intellectual property. As such, they also vowed to take necessary legal actions against any commercial activity involving these unauthorized use of IPs. 

At the end of their statement, the agency asked for the fans’ continued love and support for the BTS members until they return from finishing their respective military services. “Our company will also strive to provide all the support they need during this time,” they said. 

BTS to reconvene as a full group in 2025

In November, BigHit Music announced that members—RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook— have already initiated the military enlistment process. 

Notably, the  four are the only remaining members of the seven-piece act who are yet to commence their military service. Earlier enlistments saw Jin, the oldest member, start his enlistment in December 2022. Then, he’s followed by j-hope in April 2023 and Suga in September 2023. 

In their latest post, BigHit Music also didn’t disclose the enlistment dates and sites of the members. Although there are reports from South Korean media outlets that RM and V will enlist on December 11, while Jimin and Jungkook will follow on December 12. On top of that, there’s also speculation as to what divisions and which boot camps the members will enlist. But BigHit Music refused to confirm any reports. 

 

With all the BTS members enlisting before 2023 ends, there’s a high possibility that all seven will have finished their services by 2025. In a previous livestream, RM assured fans that the group will “be back for sure” in 2025.

In September 2023, all seven members of BTS renewed their contract with BIGHIT Music for the second time.

Featured image: RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook for the group’s 2022 Festa photos. Credit: Facebook/BTS

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BTS and BLACKPINK Are the Most Streamed K-Pop Groups on Spotify in 2023

BTS during their 'Permission to Dance' concert. Credit: Facebook/BTS

Did you make it to the Top 1% listeners of your favorite K-pop acts? On Thursday, November 29, Spotify unveiled its compilation of the most streamed K-pop artists and songs for the year 2023. 

For those unfamiliar, the Spotify Wrapped feature is an annual end-of-the-year event wherein the music giant showcases the top artists, songs, albums, and podcasts in their streaming platform. 

As for the most streamed K-pop artists, BTS reigned supreme, securing the coveted top spot again. Within the same category, Jungkook and Jimin claimed the third and sixth positions, respectively. Both BTS members released their solo debut albums this year—Jungkook with Golden and Jimin with Face—and set Guinness World Records for their individual releases. 

Meanwhile, BLACKPINK earned the title of the most streamed girl group of the year, and ranked second to BTS in the top 10. Overall, the Top 10 most streamed K-pop artists include four boy groups, four girl groups, and two solo artists. 

In terms of the most streamed K-pop songs, Jungkook clinched the top spot with his debut solo track “Seven (feat. Latto).” Additionally, Jimin’s “Like Crazy” secured the third position on the list. Interestingly, they’re the only entries in the Top 10 that came from a male act. Other entries in the Top 10 were mainly from female acts, with NewJeans securing four entries out of 10. 

Furthermore, Jungkook’s “Seven” also dominated the worldwide charts, ranking fourth at the most streamed song globally. According to Spotify, the only songs that racked up more Spotify streams in 2023 were Miley Cyrus’ “Flowers,” SZA’s “Kill Bill,” and Harry Styles’ “As It Was.”  What makes this achievement even more impressive is that “Seven” was only released in mid-July. 

Top songs, artists for 2023 according to Spotify Korea

Spotify’s Top 10 Most Streamed K-pop Artists are:

  1. BTS
  2. BLACKPINK
  3. Jungkook
  4.  NewJeans
  5. Stray Kids
  6. Jimin
  7. TWICE
  8.  SEVENTEEN
  9. TOMORROW X TOGETHER
  10. LE SSERAFIM

Meanwhile, the Top 10 Most Streamed K-pop Songs are:

  1. Jungkook “Seven“
  2. FIFTY FIFTY “Cupid“
  3. Jimin “Like Crazy“
  4. NewJeans “OMG“
  5. NewJeans “Ditto“
  6. NewJeans “Super Shy”
  7. Lisa “Money“
  8. Jisoo “Flower“
  9.  BLACKPINK “Shut Down”
  10. NewJeans “Hype Boy”

Featured image: BTS during their ‘Permission to Dance’ concert. Credit: Facebook/BTS

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Here Are the K-Pop Acts Who Won at the 2023 Billboard Music Awards

NewJeans is named Top Global K-pop Artist. Credit: Twitter/Billboard

The 2023 Billboard Music Awards announced its winners on Sunday, November 19. For this year’s edition, the prestigious music award-giving body witnessed the inclusion of four new K-pop categories: Top Global K-Pop Artist, Top K-Pop Album, Top Global K-Pop Song, and Top K-Pop Touring Artist. 

Notably, the Billboard Music Awards determines victors based on performance metrics from the year-end Billboard charts, with the tracking period for this year extending from November 4, 2022, to October 12, 2023.

Apart from the announcement of winners, K-pop fans were also treated to performances of groups NewJeans and Stray Kids. During the award night, NewJeans showcased their hit songs “Super Shy” and “OMG.” Meanwhile, Stray Kids debuted their latest title track “LALALA.” 

 

Billboard Music Awards 2023 Winners

One of the winners is rookie group NewJeans, who secured the title of Top Global K-pop artist. In their acceptance speech, Hanni expressed her gratitude to fans.

 “To have been nominated in this category alongside such incredible artists that we all look up to is an honor in itself,” Hanni said. Meanwhile, Minji added: “This award will be a reminder to us for all the love and support we’ve received from our fans, BUNNIES. We’ll try our hardest every day to make it up to our fans.” 

On top of that, Hyein also gave a shout out to her fellow NewJeans members. “We’re always looking out for one another – inspiring, helping, believing. But above all, forming this unbreakable friendship.” 

Another winner is Stray Kids, who claimed the Top K-pop Album award for 5-STAR. During their speech, leader Bang Chan was quick to acknowledge their fans, STAYS. “Without the love and support from everyone, we would probably not have made it this far,” he said. Meanwhile, Changbin, speaking in Korean, promised that they would continue to work on better music for their fans. 

 

Additionally, BTS’ Jungkook received the award for Top Global K-pop Song with “Seven (feat. Latto.)” In his acceptance video, the BTS member said that the win is “truly an honor.” “Without you, I couldn’t have gotten this amazing award,” he said to ARMYs. 

Furthermore, BLACKPINK secured the award for Top K-pop Touring Artist of the Year. 

Featured image: NewJeans is named Top Global K-pop Artist. Credit: Twitter/Billboard

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BTS’ RM, Jimin, V, Jungkook Prepare for Military Enlistment

RM, Jimin, Jungkook, and V pose for photos. Credit: Facebook/BTS

Attention, ARMYs! Members RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook of K-pop powerhouse BTS have officially initiated the process of enlisting for their mandatory military service, their agency BIGHIT Music announced on Wednesday, November 22. 

In a notice posted on the fan community app Weverse, the agency informed fans of the significant transition process in the group. 

“We would like to inform our fans that RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook have initiated the military enlistment process. The artists are preparing to fulfill their military service duties,” their statement read. 

Although the specific dates for their enlistment were not provided, the label assured fans that updates would be communicated in “due course.”

“We ask for your continued love and support for RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook until they complete their military service,” the agency said. Additionally, BIGHIT Music also promised fans that they will “spare no effort” in providing support for their artists.  

Notably, the  four are the only remaining members of the seven-piece act who are yet to commence their military service.

Earlier enlistments saw Jin, the oldest member, start his enlistment in December 2022. Then, he’s followed by j-hope in April 2023 and Suga in September 2023. 

In October 2022, BIGHIT Music announced that all seven members of BTS will fulfill their mandatory military service. At the time, the agency disclosed that BTS intends to reconvene as a whole around 2025. 

The mandatory military service, lasting at least 18 months, is a requirement for all able-bodied South Korean men under the age of 30, with few exceptions. 

See you in 2025, BTS! 

In June 2022, the septet announced that they’re taking a break from group activities to focus on solo projects as well as military enlistment.

Since then, the members have put out individual releases including j-hope with Jack in the Box, Jin with Astronaut, RM with Indigo, Jimin with Face, V with Layover, and Jungkook with GOLDEN. 

In September 2023, all seven members of BTS renewed their contract with BIGHIT Music for the second time. 

After debuting in 2013, the seven-piece act has become ostensibly the biggest K-pop group in the world. In fact, they even entered the Guinness World Records 2022 Hall of Fame in September 2021.  

Featured image: RM, Jimin, Jungkook, and V pose for photos. Credit: Facebook/BTS

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