Tag: BTS

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Italian Winery Debuts ‘Layover’ Wine Inspired by V of BTS

Layover

GherarVini di Matteo Gherardini, an Italian winery, unveiled a new wine named Layover. This wine is inspired by V of BTS and his solo album. It’s part of the winery’s innovative Music In A Bottle series. The Layover wine is linked to Spotify through a barcode on the back of the bottle. Enthusiasts can scan that barcode and listen to V’s single “Slow Dancing” while enjoying the wine. GherarVini picked a white wine to complement the jazzy and refreshing vibes of the song.

GherarVini’s Music In A Bottle series also features wines inspired by other musicians and cultural icons. So far they have bottles linked to Taylor Swift’s “Exile,” King Crimson’s “21st Century Schizoid Man,” and various Christmas carols. They also produced a Lionel Messi wine celebrating the football star’s 2022 FIFA World Cup victory.

More on the ‘Layover’ wine

The idea for the series originated during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, as Matteo Gherardini, the proprietor of GherarVini, sought to combine his two greatest passions: wine and music. Gherardini took great care in developing this project, registering the designs to secure the uniqueness of his idea. The product’s name reflects the simplicity and directness of the concept.

The initiative not only appeals to wine lovers but to music fans as well, particularly those of BTS’s V. Their idol previously influenced wine markets without meaning to. In September, V went on SUGA’s YouTube show Suchwita and talked about his preference for white wine. He revealed that when he posted about the 2001 vintage Chateau Margaux, led to a global sell-out and the drink’s rise in popularity on Google Trends.

Gherar Vini’s Music In A Bottle series, including the Layover wine, is but one of the many ways in which wine can be paired with other things to create a unique consumer experience. For more details on this delightful fusion of music and wine, enthusiasts can check out the GherarVini website. The brand also has an active Instagram account. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: What do BTS’s V and a fine wine have in common? They’re loved by millions worldwide. Source: X/@thv_btstwt.

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’s V Bulked Up While Serving as a Special Forces Soldier

BTS member V has been making waves for his impressive transformation while serving in South Korea’s elite Special Forces, the Special Duty Team (SDT). Recently, V took to Instagram to tell fans about his rigorous training and its effects on his physique. Before he enlisted, he held a live broadcast on Weverse with Jimin, Jungkook, and RM, in which he revealed his plan to bulk up while in the military. V’s goal was to go from 61 kg to 85 kg.

From BTS to the SDT

On April 12, V posted a bunch of photos on his Instagram Stories, highlighting the muscular build he developed as a member of the elite Special Duty Team (SDT) in the South Korean military. One photo featured him in a black shirt with the SDT logo. Other images showed him in more casual attire, such as a yellow T-shirt and jeans, and another in which he sports a black T-shirt with “AMAZING” across his chest. These photos captured bits and pieces of his daily life in and out of uniform.

One particularly striking post was a shirtless photo of V. In it, he was facing away from the camera, showing off the scars on his back. He captioned the photo with the words, “Wounds of glory.” This photo indicated the intensive and physically demanding nature of his military training.

ARMYs and military personnel alike felt for V when they saw his scars. “I was in the military seven years ago, and I still have scars like that on my lower back, so I can empathize with him,” wrote one veteran. “I think it’s because we’re asked to march while carrying heavy gear on our backs, crawl on a mountain, or get chafed by a long rope while climbing up. It could be any one of these three reasons. I hope Taehyung heals quickly. Even though some people recover quickly, applying cream can help!”

V’s bangin’ body

V also posted a photo of his hand and a four-leaf clover. He captioned it with, “Salute. How’s everyone doing? I’m working out healthily, wearing a cool black uniform and doing great training! When I went on vacation a little while ago, I celebrated Na PD’s birthday and had a great time talking to friends about the military. Now, I am working out very hard and weigh 75 kg, but since the soldiers of our unit have really great bodies, I have to work harder. I’ll try. Bye.” Netizens praised V for following through on his promise to bulk up while in the military. He hasn’t hit his goal weight yet, but he’ll get there soon enough at the rate he’s going.

This is the second sighting of V in as many months. Last March, he and other soldiers were spotted at a soccer match between Gangwon FC and FC Seoul. His appearance at the match, marked by fans’ cheers and his shy responses, was a delightful surprise to ARMYs who had been missing him dearly. 

V’s military journey has been filled with significant milestones. After undergoing basic training, where he was named an elite soldier, he went to the Army Administrative School for an additional three weeks of training. After completing his advanced training, he was assigned to the “Ssangyong Unit”of the 2nd Corps of the Republic of Korea Army. He’s set to be discharged on June 10, 2025. 

If his latest updates are any indication, his body might be even more bangin’ by the time he returns to the entertainment scene. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Just when you thought it was impossible for V to get even hotter, he goes and tops himself. Source: X/@chartdata.

Categories
BTS KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’s Jimin May Have Finished His Second Solo Album

BTS’s Jimin may have completed his second solo album.

This revelation emerged in a behind-the-scenes video posted on YouTube by fellow BTS member SUGA. The video captured moments from his ‘D-DAY’ Tour in Seoul, where Jimin made a special appearance alongside V and Jungkook to support SUGA. Fans were thrilled to see the four of them together.

During these moments of camaraderie, a shirtless Jimin offered fans a glimpse of his back tattoo. He got the phases of the moon tattooed on his back, inspired by fan art from illustrator @ArizzoStudios on X (formerly Twitter). However, it wasn’t the tattoo that caused a frenzy among the ARMYs—it was a comment Jimin made. He casually mentioned, “I’m done with my album now,” in the video. Given that the video was filmed months after the release of his debut solo album, FACE, he was clearly referring to something new.

[EPISODE] SUGA | Agust D TOUR ‘D-DAY’ in SEOUL – BTS (방탄소년단)

Other signs that Jimin has more music coming

Hints about Jimin’s new music have surfaced before. On December 28, 2023, Hollywood-based audio engineer and composer Austin Owens, known as Ayo the Producer, shared some insights. Owens, who collaborated with Jimin on the song “Closer Than This,” posted an Instagram carousel. It included a video of Jimin practicing the choreography for “Closer Than This,” Owens captioned it, “Cup is full…2024 I’m ready for you.”

Prior to this, he shared a reel featuring Jimin and some dancers grooving to “Closer Than This,” Originally posted by Jimin on BTS’s official TikTok account, Owens reposted it with the caption, “We’re FarFromFinished.” When asked by a fan what he meant, he responded, “There’s always more work to be done.” This was interpreted by ARMYs as an indirect confirmation of more music from Jimin.

These teasers have sparked speculation and excitement among fans, who are eagerly awaiting the official announcement and release of the “Like Crazy” hitmaker’s second solo album. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Towards the end of the video in question, he gave the camera a thumbs-up. Source: YouTube/@BTS.

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’s V Amazes Fans in Behind-the-Scenes Video of His Latest Commercial

BTS member Kim Taehyung, aka V, impressed fans with his involvement in filming a commercial for Compose Coffee, a popular South Korean coffee brand. A behind-the-scenes video from their recent ad campaign revealed V’s active participation in the production process. He contributed to discussions about angles, shots, and other creative aspects. This demonstrated his influence on the overall direction of the shoot.

Fans got their first glimpse of the “Love Me Again” singer’s Compose Coffee campaign back in January. The ad, rich with references to films like Big Fish and The French Dispatch, reminded fans of V’s well-known fondness for European romantic comedies. This led to speculation that he might have suggested incorporating those elements into the campaign.

The ad’s fusion of cinematic visuals and Compose Coffee’s signature color palette was well-received. In an Instagram post, V acknowledged the director he worked with, Yu Kwang-goeng. The BTS member expressed gratitude to the director for allowing V to contribute his ideas to the ad and bringing them to fruition.

컴포즈커피 V 메이킹필름

Fans praised the BTS member

When fans found out about V’s active participation in the shoot, they wasted no time in praising not just his dedication, but his attention to detail as well. They admired the fact that V demonstrated an ability to contribute significantly to creative projects that go beyond music. For ARMYs, that means V can succeed in whatever he does, regardless of whether he’s an idol or not.

V’s relationship with Compose Coffee began in December 2023, when he was named the new face of the brand. Their partnership has been a resounding success, with the musician reportedly earning over 4.6 million USD for his role in the brand’s ad campaigns. His involvement led to a significant boost for Compose Coffee, which attracted over 2.6 million new users to its app. The brand also introduced coffee cup sleeves adorned with V’s image, which propelled the brand to the No. 1 spot on Baemin, South Korea’s largest delivery service.

Although they’re currently completing their military service, the BTS members, including V, continue to influence popular culture. Fans are eagerly anticipating their return as a complete group in June 2025, looking forward to more projects from the superstar septet that will showcase their creativity. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: V’s not just good in front of the camera, he’s dynamite behind it too. Source: YouTube/@composecoffee.official.

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’s SUGA Announces ‘Agust D TOUR ‘D-Day’ The Movie’ Concert Film

Fans of BTS’s SUGA should brace themselves for an unforgettable cinematic experience. HYBE Labels and Trafalgar Releasing have partnered to announce the release of Agust D TOUR ‘D-Day’ The Movie. This concert film covers SUGA’s 2023 tour, offering ARMYs worldwide a chance to relive his electrifying performances on the big screen. As if that wasn’t enough, the movie will also feature appearances from BTS members Jimin, Jungkook, and RM. Their scenes will include performances as well.

In a heartfelt video message to fans, SUGA bared his enthusiasm for the project. “It’s been a while,” he began. “I’m back with a video to share some very special news with our dear ARMY. Do you remember SUGA Agust D TOUR ‘D-Day’…the finale to my solo tour last summer? The D-Day tour was so meaningful because it told the story of my journey as both SUGA and Agust D. The emotions I felt during the finale are still so vivid, as it was the last concert of the tour. And now, that very concert will be released in theaters worldwide!”

He continued, “I’m so happy, proud, and excited. I hope you’ll enjoy it as much as the concert meant to me.”

SUGA│Agust D TOUR ‘D-DAY’ THE MOVIE Announcement

SUGA loves performing

The trailer for Agust D TOUR ‘D-Day’ The Movie promises an exhilarating look at SUGA’s tour, highlighting the energy and passion he brought to the stage. Premiering in select theaters on April 10 and 13, the concert film compiles footage from the tour’s three encore concerts, held last August at the KSPO Dome in Seoul. The tour covered 10 cities for a total of 25 shows. SUGA embarked on this tour in support of his album D-DAY, which peaked at No. 2 on the US Billboard 200 in May 2023.

The rapper reflects on his career in the trailer. “When I go onstage, I think to myself that I have to kill it,” he can be heard saying. “Concerts and singers are inseparable. I’m someone who thinks a concert is what completes your career as a singer. I’m someone who loves performing.”

SUGA│Agust D TOUR ‘D-DAY’ THE MOVIE Main Trailer

The concert film will be screened worldwide, not just on standard movie screens but also in IMAX, providing fans with a larger-than-life viewing experience. Tickets for the screenings went on sale on March 12, with a website dedicated to the film, SUGATheMovie.com, listing all theaters where the film will be available.

This marks another cinematic venture for SUGA, following his 2023 solo documentary SUGA: Road to D-Day which premiered on Disney+ and Weverse, offering an in-depth look into his journey. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This photo makes it clear that SUGA feels most at peace when he’s onstage. Source: YouTube/@BTS.

Categories
BTS KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

All You Need to Know About V’s New Digital Single ‘FRI(END)S’

Just six months after BTS’s V delighted fans with his debut solo album Layover, the “Slow Dancing” singer is preparing to release a new digital single titled “FRI(END)S.” V and his agency, BigHit Music, teased the track on social media before formally announcing it on March 3. They revealed not only the song’s title but also its release date of March 15 at 1:00 PM KST.

“FRI(END)S” combines elements of pop, R&B, and soul. It offers a relatable and witty take on romance. According to a press release from BigHit Music, “V’s digital single ‘FRI(END)S’ is a sweet ‘confession song’ that complements the pink spring. It starts off warmly like buds sprouting on a spring day and gradually intensifies with the flow of emotions.”

Fans can’t wait for the full version of the song

BigHit Music released the first teaser of “FRI(END)S” on BTS’s official SNS at 12:00 MN KST on March 10. The 35-second clip shows V grabbing leftover takeout from the fridge and eating it alone. It then cuts to a chaotic scene at a movie theater and another where V is all alone in a crowded diner, surrounded by happy couples. As the video consists of scenes from the “FRI(END)S” music video, it also includes a snippet of the song that plays towards the end of the video. The sweet melody, combined with V’s enchanting falsetto, leaves a deep impression. It heightens anticipation for the story V will tell with the full version of the song.

Both sets of concept photos released show V striking various poses all by himself. Fans can view the full set of concept photos on BTS’s Instagram. BigHit Music has promised more to come. This includes a “flash video” that captures the single’s overall mood. It’s scheduled for release on March 11 and will be followed by another music video teaser on March 12.

The song is written entirely in English

Adding to the anticipation, Riley McDonough, known for co-writing Joji’s “Glimpse of Us,” contributed to the lyrics of “FRI(END)S,” which are written entirely in English. The songwriter revealed his involvement in V’s upcoming release through his Instagram Stories. He even tagged the BTS member’s personal account. Connor McDonough, Riley’s older brother (and frequent collaborator), spread the word further by reposting his brother’s story on his own Instagram account.

Riley’s musical journey has evolved significantly over the years. Initially gaining recognition with the pop band Before You Exit, he has since focused on collaborating with different artists. His achievements underscore his knack for creating hits. “Glimpse of Us,” for example, not only hit No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100. It also dominated the Global and US Spotify charts. Riley’s songwriting resume includes contributions to tracks like “Cold As Ice” by Ava Max, “Go Down Together” by Dove Cameron and Khalid, “Red Flags” by Mimi Webb, and “Wonder Woman” by John Legend. His involvement in “FRI(END)S” suggests that V’s new single will benefit from Riley’s proven talent for crafting compelling music.

V hinted at the release of ‘FRI(END)S’

In September 2023, V released Layover, featuring singles such as “Love Me Again,” “Rainy Days,” and “Slow Dancing.” With all seven BTS members having joined the South Korean military, the group is expected to be on hiatus until 2025.

Before beginning his service, V hinted that fans can expect more content from him even as he serves in the 2nd Corps of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Army. “Within 18 months, I’ve prepared a lot of things. Please look forward to it,” V wrote in December 2023. “I’ll really miss you. I love you so much.” – K-Pop Life

Featured Image: We’ll know for sure what the song is about in a few days. Source: X/@BIGHIT_MUSIC.

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

GQ Korea Unveils Jungkook-Inspired Cocktails by Pine & Co

One of GQ Korea’s latest features spotlights South Korean hotspot Pine & Co., where bartenders Du Ui-hong (Joe) and Beom-suk Park (Patt) crafted a series of cocktails inspired by BTS’s Jungkook and his debut album, GOLDEN. Located in Seoul, Pine & Co. was established in 2020 with the mission of introducing patrons to various drinking cultures through their diverse selection of cocktails. Their creations are influenced by different things, including art, culture, experiences, and stories, and are distinguished by their commitment to sustainability and innovative techniques.

Following their homage to fourth-generation K-pop groups Stray Kids and TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT), Pine & Co.’s new concoctions celebrate the essence of GOLDEN through three unique cocktails, each inspired by a specific track from Jungkook’s album. The “Incomplete Alexander” draws inspiration from the album’s title track, “Standing Next To You,” while the taste of the “Bittersweet Negroni” mirrors the complex emotions of “Hate You,” track 7. Lastly, the “Reminiscent Highball” is a nod to the poignant “Shot Glass Of Tears,” track 10.

Complex flavors

To craft the Incomplete Alexander, start by chilling a glass and gathering your ingredients: Bombay cocoa gin, coffee syrup, orange soboro, and umami cream. In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine 45 ml of Bombay cocoa gin—Bombay redistilled with cocoa nibs—and 45 ml of coffee syrup, distilled coffee liquid balanced with sugar. Mix them thoroughly, then strain the mixture into your chilled glass. Next, Whip the umami cream enhanced with salt and glutamic acid for topping. Finally, garnish with a slice of sweet bread and a sprinkle of edible gold.

For the Bittersweet Negroni, you’ll need Bombay gin, Suze, a special Blanc de Blancs vermouth, and Campari foam. Begin by preparing the vermouth: degas Blanc de Blancs champagne and infuse it with chamomile, mint, and wormwood. Meanwhile, prepare the Campari foam by charging two eggs with Campari in a nitrous oxide siphon. In a mixing glass with ice, pour 45 ml of Bombay gin, 45 ml of Suze, and 20ml of your homemade vermouth. Stir well, then strain into a glass. Finally, crown your cocktail with a generous layer of Campari foam.

@joydarramartisano

Highball drink Ingredients: • whiskey • sparkling water or soda or ginger ale recommendation Lemon-dou • lot of ice 🍻👍 #Jk #Jungkook3D #Jungkook #jungkook_seven #bts #btsarmy

♬ original sound – I Purple You💜🇸🇦🇵🇭 – I Purple You💜🇸🇦🇵🇭

A perfect tribute to Jungkook

To assemble the Reminiscent Highball, select a highball glass and cool it in advance. You’ll need Grey Goose vodka, geranium liqueur, and geranium flowers for the final touch. Begin by filling your glass with ice to the brim. Pour in 45 ml of Grey Goose, followed by 15 ml of geranium liqueur, which you can prepare by redistilling geranium leaves with vodka and balancing that with citric acid and sucrose. Top off the cocktail with soda and garnish it with fresh geranium flowers, placing them delicately atop the drink.

These cocktails aren’t just drinks; they’re an homage to Jungkook’s music, offering fans a taste of his artistry through the medium of mixology. They also demonstrate Pine & Co.’s dedication to crafting drinks that are as much about experience and storytelling as they are about taste. Fans have expressed appreciation for Pine & Co.’s gesture, recognizing it as a perfect tribute to Jungkook, who’s known for enjoying a drink or two, as seen in the live broadcasts he did before enlisting in the military. Next time you listen to GOLDEN from start to finish, make one of these cocktails to enhance the experience. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungkook would probably love these cocktails too. Sources: X/@a_girlwitluv and X/@extraRYce.

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’s V Posts Emotional Message to Fans on His Instagram Stories

BTS member Kim Taehyung (aka V) is still serving in the military, having enlisted in December last year. While fans eagerly await his return along with the rest of the septet, it’s clear that V misses his supporters just as much.

On March 2, V took to Instagram Stories, posting an old video featuring all seven BTS members practicing the choreography for their hit single “Permission to Dance.” He captioned it with the words, “ARMYs haven’t forgotten about me, right? I’m still breathing, you know? Do you think of us occasionally?” This moment of vulnerability tugged at the heartstrings of fans worldwide. It prompted many to reassure V of their continued love and support.

@mitch_army_bts

@thv ig story update🥰💜 #v #taehyung #thv #bts #btsarmy #foryoupage #foryou #fyp

♬ original sound – Mr. Jeongguk🐰 – Mr. Jeongguk🐰

They took to the fan community platform Weverse to remind V that they’re also counting down the days till he completes his mandatory military service. One fan’s post caught V’s attention. They wrote, “Taehyung–ah, I’m thinking of you as naturally as breathing. You’re always sparkling in my heart, I won’t forget you. So be healthy and comfortable. I’m still here without changing.”

V replied, “Then that’s a relief~ thought it was just one-sided for me.”

The BTS member will drop a new song

Amid this exchange of love and support, V’s agency BigHit Music organized a special event to help V connect with fans. The event, named FRI(END)S Party, is scheduled for March 16 in Seongdong District, Seoul. This get-together aligns with the release of V’s new song, “FRI(END)S,” which is set to hit streaming services on the 15th. Those who attend will get to watch its official music video and leave handwritten letters and voice messages for V. This event, exclusive to BTS’s official fan club members, is intended as a gift to the fans from BigHit Music. 

“FRI(END)S” signifies V’s first new release since he dropped his debut solo album Layover in September 2023. The track is described by his agency as an English pop-soul R&B piece perfect for spring.

V’s military service has been marked by numerous achievements. He began by applying to the Capital Defense Command’s Special Division Team (SDT). He passed the document screening, interview rounds, and physical fitness tests, then enrolled in a five-week basic training course. Upon graduating, he was named an elite soldier. Finally, V went to the Army Administrative School for an additional three weeks of training.

Upon completing his advanced training, V was assigned to the “Ssangyong Unit” in the 2nd Corps of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Army, which 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. He’s set to be discharged on June 10, 2025. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: V proved even the biggest superstars need validation from time to time. Source: X/@BTSx50States.

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’s V and Jackie Chan Team Up for SimInvest Commercial

BTS’s V and Jackie Chan took the internet by storm when they appeared in a new ad for SimInvest, an Indonesian investment company. The one-minute commercial begins with V affectionately referring to the legendary Jackie Chan as his “best friend with no limits.” Viewers are treated to scenes of the K-pop idol indulging in the finer things in life, like playing squash and driving a luxury car, before joining the martial arts film legend for dinner. The highlight of the ad is when the two stars share a dance, with V teaching Chan some dance moves and Chan showing V some kung fu moves in return.

The commercial aims to prove that friendships can transcend all kinds of boundaries, including hobbies, generation, favorite sport, favorite food, ethnicity, or distance. This video also symbolizes SimInvest’s commitment to always be a friend to all its users in providing a limitless investing experience.

The campaign’s slogan, “Anywhere, anytime, anyone, experience unlimited experiences with SimInvest,” encourages Indonesians to explore the investment opportunities offered by SimInvest, accessible to anyone with an ID card. This collaboration between V and Jackie Chan aims to inspire more individuals to consider investing as a means to achieve a better financial future. The advertisement has also been featured on OOH screens around Jakarta, including the HI roundabout.

V and Jackie Chan are now #ExperienceLimitlessWithSimInvest

SimInvest execs on the impact of this collaboration

Reflecting on the impact of this collaboration, Ferita Lie, president commissioner of Sinarmas Sekuritas and director of Sinar Multiartha, stated, “Over the last two years, SimInvest has grown very rapidly thanks to the presence of V, who has a loyal fan base among young people. But we can’t stop presenting new things; that’s why we chose Jackie Chan as the second brand ambassador, side by side with V, to represent a more senior group. We are optimistic that Jackie’s figure can be in line with our vision and mission to realize financial inclusion and investment in Indonesia that is more massive and globally competitive.”

Jamial Salim Konpoi, president director of Sinarmas Sekuritas, emphasized that choosing Jackie Chan as a brand ambassador is strategic for enhancing SimInvest’s appeal and building public trust. This partnership reflects the diversity of SimInvest’s clientele. Following the ad’s release, V shared a heartwarming behind-the-scenes video on Instagram, showcasing his natural ability to connect with others, highlighted by his warm interaction with Chan.

@kimsumarie888

Kim Taehyung update his IG story today 03-01-24 with Behind the Scene Clip of Siminvest #Taehyung #JackieChan #Siminvest

♬ original sound – ✨김마리🐻👑 – ✨김마리🐻👑

V expanded SimInvest’s presence on the global stage

Since naming V as its ambassador last March, SimInvest has seen significant growth and increased global recognition, thanks in part to V’s influence. The idol did everything he could to expand SimInvest’s presence on the global stage. He participated in a series of ad campaigns and activities, including his offline fan meeting held in June of the previous year.

SimInvest plans to unveil more content featuring the dynamic duo in the coming weeks, starting with these videos.

Hello from Jackie Chan

Hello from V

Stay tuned for updates! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This collaboration wasn’t on fans’ 2024 bingo card, but they loved it nonetheless. Source: YouTube/@army_bts_do8es.

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’s Jungkook Named Billboard’s Best K-Pop Artist

Billboard has officially declared BTS’s Jungkook as the best K-pop artist of 2024 in its inaugural ranking of the top 100 K-pop stars. The media outler made the announcement to mark the upcoming launch of Billboard Korea in May.

The 2024 Billboard K-Pop Artist 100 marks the first time the US magazine has ranked K-pop artists. The rankings were assembled by the chart teams at Billboard and its Seoul branch, Billboard Korea, which is set to publish its first issue in June. These rankings drew from artists’ activities across the Billboard 200 albums chart, Billboard Hot 100 songs chart, and Billboard Boxscore. The Boxscore tracks tour attendance and revenue, covering the period from January 7, 2023, to December 30, 2023.

Group members were generally listed together unless notable solo activities warranted individual recognition. That’s what happened with Jungkook. This year’s rankings included members from 16 groups: (G)I-DLE, aespa, ATEEZ, BLACKPINK, BTS, ENHYPEN, FIFTY FIFTY, ITZY, LE SSERAFIM, NCT 127, NCT Dream, NewJeans, SEVENTEEN, Stray Kids, TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT), and TWICE.

How did Jungkook take the top spot?

Jungkook’s rise to the top of Billboard’s ranking followed the success of his first solo single “Seven (feat. Latto)” and the album GOLDEN, both released in 2023. “Seven (feat. Latto)” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It remained at the top of the Billboard Global 200 for seven weeks, was hailed as the No. 1 Global Song of the Summer, and snagged the Top Global K-Pop Song at the Billboard Music Awards. Furthermore, Jungkook’s musical prowess was evident in his hit Hot 100 collaborations. These included the top-five hit “3D (feat. Jack Harlow),” which received a remix from Justin Timberlake, and “Too Much” with The Kid LAROI and Central Cee.

GOLDEN further cemented his status by debuting at No. 2 on the Billboard 200. It set a record for the largest sales week ever for a K-pop solo act with 210,200 equivalent-unit albums for the chart week dated November 18, 2023. His track “Standing Next to You” is on track to become his longest-running Hot 100 hit, having spent 16 consecutive weeks on the tally thus far. These accomplishments put Jungkook at the top of a list that evaluates activity on the Billboard 200, Hot 100, and Billboard Boxscore touring data over the past year.

Who else is on the list?

Second on the list is Stray Kids’ leader, Bang Chan, followed by Lee Know in third place. The rest of Stray Kids’ members—Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix, Seungmin, and I.N—also made the top 10, in that order. This indicates a strong showing by the group in Billboard’s rankings. Girl group FIFTY FIFTY, which only has one remaining original member, Keena, secured the No. 10 spot.

In anticipation of its May launch, Billboard Korea plans to host a kick-off event in Seoul. This event will celebrate the K-pop artists featured on the 2024 list as guests of honor. It’ll further highlight the global influence of K-pop and its artists. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: BTS’s golden maknae added another feather to his cap. Source: Billboard.

Exit mobile version