Jungkook has thrilled fans with a tantalizing glimpse of his upcoming documentary film. The “JUNGKOOK: I AM STILL” trailer even features the BTS maknae sharing his insecurities about his solo debut.
‘JUNGKOOK: I AM STILL’ Trailer Finally Released
On August 21, the superstar released the main trailer for the feature film, which is set to hit cinemas globally starting next month.
The trailer opens with a candid moment, as Jungkook admits to feeling nervous while preparing for his solo performance. His voiceover reveals his vulnerability, as he questions, “Will I be able to earn people’s recognition just on my own, without the power of BTS?” This heartfelt confession highlights the pressure he feels stepping into the spotlight as a solo artist, separate from the group that propelled him to global stardom.
As the trailer unfolds, viewers are taken behind the scenes, offering a rare look into Jungkook’s intense preparations for his solo debut. The film promises to showcase not only the hard work and dedication behind his craft but also the emotional journey that accompanies his rise as a solo artist. Throughout the trailer, moments of his massive success are highlighted, giving fans a taste of the triumphs that follow his relentless efforts.
“JUNGKOOK: I AM STILL” is more than just a documentary; it is an intimate portrait of Jungkook’s evolution as an artist and individual. The film will begin limited screenings worldwide on September 18, and fans are eagerly counting down the days until they can witness this new chapter in Jungkook’s career. With this documentary, Jungkook invites viewers to join him on his journey of self-discovery and artistic growth, making it a must-watch for ARMYs and music lovers alike.
JTBC has officially issued an apology following the release of the incorrect Suga CCTV video in connection with the BTS member’s DUI incident.
JTBC Apologizes for Airing Wrong Suga CCTV Video
The situation first came to light when JTBC broke the news on August 7, 2024, reporting that SUGA was involved in a DUI case. As part of their coverage, the network aired what they claimed to be CCTV footage of SUGA riding an electric scooter down a main road. This footage quickly circulated, drawing significant attention from fans and the general public alike.
However, it was soon revealed that the footage shown by JTBC was incorrect. According to Dong-A Ilbo and subsequent police investigations, SUGA had indeed been riding an electric scooter, but he had been on the sidewalk rather than the main road as initially reported. BIGHIT MUSIC, SUGA’s management company, confirmed these details, clarifying that JTBC had mistakenly aired CCTV footage of another individual entirely.
On August 16, JTBC addressed this mistake during their live broadcast of ‘JTBC Newsroom.’ The anchor delivered an official apology, stating, “Our newsroom reported BTS member SUGA’s DUI on August 7. In the first part of our report, we aired CCTV footage of an electric scooter passing by on a main road. It was later confirmed through police investigations that the male in the video was not SUGA. We’re sorry for causing confusion.”
This incident has sparked criticism of JTBC’s journalistic standards, as the incorrect footage could have contributed to misunderstandings and unnecessary public scrutiny. Fans of BTS, known as ARMY, were particularly vocal about their concerns, emphasizing the importance of accurate reporting.
As the situation unfolds, the police are expected to summon SUGA for questioning regarding the DUI incident. This development is closely watched by both fans and the media, as the investigation continues to progress. JTBC’s apology, while necessary, has highlighted the need for careful and precise reporting, especially when it involves high-profile individuals like SUGA.
BTS Suga finds himself in hot water following serious allegations regarding his behavior during alternative military service. The controversy began after complaints surfaced accusing him of neglecting his duties and even indulging in careless actions during training.
Allegations surface accusing BTS Suga of neglecting his duties during his alternative military service
The issue first emerged on a public service-related app, Gongik Ingan, where a fellow service worker detailed their experience training alongside Suga last November. According to the post, Suga, appointed team leader, allegedly failed to engage in the required classes.
The worker claimed, “Suga did not attend any classes during the five-day training period. Even the instructor hinted that his behavior was excessive.” The post described his lack of participation, noting that he would often sleep, look at his phone, and barely engage with the lessons. This allegedly led to his group having the lowest participation rate, drawing comparisons to a “school bully” who tries to act indifferent.
[NOTPANNKPOP]
Eyewitness “BTS Suga only sleeps during military service training. Suga acted like he was a classroom bully trying to assert his dominance at the beginning of the school year”, Knetz react pic.twitter.com/SoniOYvxzi
— notpannkpop & notnetizenbuzz (@notpannkpop_) August 13, 2024
These allegations have rapidly spread across online communities, amplifying criticism against the artist. The controversy grew worse after reports of his involvement in a drunk driving incident on a weekday emerged. This led to additional complaints and further investigation into his conduct during his public service.
The Seoul Regional Military Manpower Administration has now taken charge of the investigation, with complaints, both old and new, being addressed by the department. Fans and the public are awaiting the outcome of the investigation, which will determine if any disciplinary action is necessary.
BTS Suga fell off his scooter after drinking outside. The public expresses strong criticisms of this incident, emphasizing that it’s illegal. Photo via Instagram @agustd.
The police plan to summon BTSSuga for questioning regarding a recent DUI incident involving an electric scooter. The Yongsan Police Station in Seoul confirmed on August 11 that they are coordinating the date for Suga’s formal appearance, emphasizing the need to investigate the circumstances of the incident and determine the amount of alcohol he consumed.
BTS Suga faces police questioning after a DUI incident involving an electric scooter
The incident occurred on the evening of August 6 near Suga’s home in Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu. According to reports, Suga fell off an electric scooter, and a patrolling police officer discovered him at the scene. The officer administered a breathalyzer test, which revealed a blood alcohol content of 0.227%, far exceeding the legal threshold for license revocation, which is 0.08%.
At the time, the police did not recognize Suga as a member of the globally famous K-pop group BTS. Due to his intoxicated state, they were unable to conduct a thorough investigation and only performed the breathalyzer test before allowing him to return home. As a result, the police now intend to summon him for further questioning and to obtain a formal statement.
BTS Suga is currently a hot topic for driving under the influence. K-Netizens show mixed opinion. Some emphasize its illegal nature, while some think that he did not cause harm to make this issue big. Photo via X/The Tonight Show.
Suga, who began his mandatory military service in March, currently serves as a social service worker following his basic training at the Nonsan Training Center in South Chungcheong Province. His expected discharge date is set for June 2025.
Suga’s fans on X are making massive tweets to remove him from the trending tags. As this situation unfolds, both fans and the public are closely monitoring the developments, with the upcoming police questioning expected to provide more clarity on the incident.
Seoul Yongsan Police Station booked BTS Suga on August 6, KST, for violating the Road Traffic Act due to drunk driving. Police found him after he fell off an electric scooter in Hannam-dong. A breathalyzer test showed his blood alcohol concentration was high enough to cancel his license. Police fined him immediately and revoked his license.
Suga addresses fans after an electric scooter mishap while under the influence
Big Hit Music, Suga’s agency, apologized, explaining, “Suga rode an electric scooter home after drinking on the night of August 6 KST. After traveling about 500 meters, he fell while parking the scooter. A breathalyzer test conducted by nearby police resulted in a fine and the revocation of his license. No injuries or property damage occurred, and police escorted Suga home.”
The agency added, “We apologize for the disappointment caused by our artist’s inappropriate behavior. Suga will accept any disciplinary action from his workplace as a social service agent for causing public concern.”
Suga also apologized to fans on the Weverse platform, stating, “After drinking at a dinner last night, I rode an electric scooter home. I failed to recognize the danger and illegality of using an electric scooter while intoxicated and violated the Road Traffic Act. Although no one was harmed and no property was damaged, I take full responsibility for my actions and sincerely apologize to everyone.”
Many are concerned about whether this incident will affect Suga’s service as a social service agent, potentially extending his service days or leading to additional disciplinary measures. However, it appears his status and service days as a social service agent will not be affected since the incident occurred outside official working hours.
BTS Suga is recently involved in an electric scooter accident after drinking. The BTS member issues an apology.
A Military Manpower Administration official noted, “Disciplinary actions are taken for negligence during working hours, but incidents outside working hours are subject to general criminal law.”
The Military Manpower Administration’s regulations state that activities such as drinking, gambling, or indecency during working hours result in an extension of service by five days for each warning. However, this only applies to incidents that occur during working hours.
BTS’s Jin is gearing up to engage with fans through self-produced content. Ten Asia reported on the 8th that the K-pop superstar is working on a project revolving around hiking. Recently, Jin went to Jeju Island, where he climbed Hallasan with several cameras. He planned this content himself in collaboration with his agency BigHit Music.
Hallasan is a shield volcano and the highest mountain in South Korea, located on Jeju Island. Rising to an elevation of 1,947 meters or 6,388 feet, it’s a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers in general.
Hallasan is the centerpiece of Hallasan National Park, which features a variety of flora and fauna, scenic trails, and volcanic landscapes. The mountain also holds cultural and spiritual significance. It’s often referred to as one of the three main mountains in South Korea, along with Jirisan and Seoraksan. Its crater lake, Baengnokdam, meaning “white deer lake,” is one of its most notable features.
People can and frequently do climb Hallasan. There are several well-maintained trails leading to the summit, all of which have different levels of difficulty. The two main trails are the Seongpanak Trail and the Gwaneumsa Trail. The Seongpanak Trail is longer but slightly less steep, typically taking 4-5 hours to ascend. Meanwhile, the Gwaneumsa Trail is shorter but steeper, and hikers who choose it usually take 5-6 hours to get to the top. That said, both trails offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
If you want to hike up Hallasan like Jin, it’s important to start your ascent early. Access to the summit is restricted in the afternoon to ensure hikers have enough daylight to complete their descent safely. The trails are usually open year-round, though conditions can vary with the seasons, so it’s advisable to check the weather and trail conditions before planning a hike.
Hiking Hallasan: South Korea’s Highest Peak on Jeju Island 한라산
What else is Jin up to?
In addition to his hiking project, Jin visited his old high school to film more content. The release date for all of it has yet to be confirmed. According to BigHit Music, “Detailed information about our own content will be revealed later.”
Jin is also expected to appear on the variety show Half-Star Hotel in Lost Island. It’s an MBC show where celebrities and guests travel to remote islands to renovate abandoned houses into makeshift hotels. Led by TV personality Ahn Jung-hwan, the show’s fixed cast includes singer Boom and newscaster Kim Dae-ho. According to Sports Chosun, Jin has already finished filming his episode, with the broadcast date to be announced soon.
Furthermore, he recently became the new global ambassador of French jeweler Maison Fred. The brand has been around since 1933, but the people behind it never saw the need for an endorser—until now. Perhaps they were simply waiting for someone like Jin to come along.
Finally, Jin expressed excitement for fellow member Jimin’s second solo album MUSE by saying, “Jimin, I’m next. I’m going to sing too.” Rumor has it that Jin will drop his own solo effort in the latter half of 2024. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: Jin was spotted walking the trails of Hallasan with a camera. Source: X/@nightstar1201.
BigHit Music will hold a special pop-up event to celebrate the release of BTS member Jimin’s second solo album, MUSE. The event, titled MUSE Smeraldo Garden, will take place from July 22 to 28 at the Sikmulgwan Plant House in Gangnam-gu, Seoul.
[복합문화공간 강남 카페] 식물관PH Sikmulgwan PH / Seoul cafe
About the venue
Located two bus stops from Irwon Station, Sikmulgwan Plant House is known for its modern design and spacious interiors. When you walk through the doors of this four-story cafe and exhibition space, the first thing you’ll need to do is go up to the counter and pay the admission fee. The fee varies by age, with prices set at 10,000 KRW for adults, 7,000 KRW for teenagers, and 5,000 KRW for children, except those under 36 months who can enter for free.
The fee covers the cost of a drink. You can choose any one of these coffee-based drinks: americano, cafe latte, einspanner, espresso, and vanilla latte, all available hot or iced. There is also a selection of non-coffee drinks, such as Earl Grey tea, lavender lemon soda, matcha cream, organic hibiscus berry, pineapple ginger soda, and freshly squeezed orange juice (exclusively for kids). Desserts like carrot cake and New York cheesecake can be purchased separately.
After paying the admission fee and choosing a drink, you’ll receive a wristband that gives you access to all areas inside Sikmulgwan Plant House. The Foliage Plants Zone and the Glass House are also on the first floor. Lush trees fill the former, while many potted plants are on display in the latter, which is very Instagrammable. The Cafe Lounge is on the second floor, a mezzanine-level area. It serves as a quiet place where people can hang out or read any of the botany books stacked along one wall. The third floor is an exhibition space featuring art from various artists. Finally, the fourth floor is reserved for events, seminars, and workshops. Sikmulgwan Plant House is open on weekdays, from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
According to BigHit Music, the MUSE Smeraldo Garden pop-up will have a photo zone and various experiential content based on Jimin’s new album. The pop-up will span three floors, each reflecting different concepts and themes the K-pop superstar tackled on MUSE. Fans will be able to leave handwritten messages for him as well. Additional details will be provided to ARMY Membership holders at a later date.
The fictional flower Smeraldo, featured in Jimin’s pre-release track “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band,” will play a significant role in creating memorable experiences for Jimin and his fans at the pop-up.
“Smeraldo Garden Marching Band” was released last month and has reached No. 88 on Billboard’s Hot 100 singles chart, marking Jimin’s fifth solo song to appear on the chart. It will soon be followed by “Who,” the title track of MUSE.
Jimin’s MUSE album, set to release on July 19 at 1:00 PM, features six songs. Jimin wrote lyrics for some of the songs and produced two. Knowing that he had creative control over this project is one of the reasons why fans are looking forward to listening to MUSE when it drops. – K-Pop News Writer
Maison Fred has unveiled South Korean singer and songwriter Kim Seok-jin, better known as Jin of BTS, as its first global ambassador. The announcement was accompanied by stunning photos of Jin in stylish outfits, each showcasing different jewelry pieces from the Parisian brand.
Founded in 1936 by Fred Samuel in Paris, the brand established itself as a prestigious jeweler. It gained popularity among celebrities and high society figures. Originally from Argentina, Samuel was inspired by the vibrant atmosphere of the Côte d’Azur, which influenced his designs. Maison Fred became known for creations like the “Pretty Woman” necklace worn by Julia Roberts in the 1990 film and the Force 10 bracelet, which Jin wore for his photoshoot.
In 1995, Maison Fred was acquired by the LVMH Group. Valérie Samuel, Fred Samuel’s granddaughter, currently serves as its artistic director and vice president.
On its official website, Maison Fred stated, “Maison Fred is pleased to announce its new Global Brand Ambassador: Jin of 21st-century emblematic pop icons BTS. As a true generational symbol, he has made a global impact with his talent and personality, continuing to inspire millions of fans worldwide. Both considerate and committed, with a perpetual smile and a great sense of humor, the eternal lover of life perfectly embodies the spirit of Maison Fred.”
The brand added, “Jin’s radiant personality and contemporary, casual chic style chimes with the modernity and individuality of Maison Fred creations. His collaboration with The Sunshine Jeweler promises to shine with a unique sparkle.”
Valérie Samuel added, “His artistic qualities, values and high standards constantly push him to excel, strongly resonating with those of our maison and our founder Fred Samuel, with whom he shares an unwavering optimism and joie de vivre.”
Mindless consumers
Jin himself expressed enthusiasm for the partnership on Instagram. “Grateful to be part of the Fred family as the Global Brand Ambassador,” he wrote. Expect a lot of new and varied looks that we will be showing with Fred in the future.”
Within hours of the announcement, fans noticed that the pieces featured in Jin’s photoshoot for the brand were going fast. A yellow gold bracelet he wore, priced at 375,000 KRW (about 273 USD), sold out quickly. So did the Force 10 Iconic Necklace, which Jin paired with an all-black outfit. Some fans criticized others for buying such expensive jewelry instead of focusing on more pressing issues, with one person calling them “mindless consumers.”
Another fan hit back on X, writing, “People who’re buying $27k jewelry aren’t on Twitter arguing with y’all.” Someone else noted, “Should we tell her that even the 97k necklace is also sold out?” Meanwhile, another fan tried to bring the conversation back to Jin by pointing out that the brand’s website crashed and its Instagram following surged to over 200,000.
Both the ‘Force 10 winch bracelet ($27,127) AND the Force 10 iconic necklace ($97,398) that Seokjin was wearing in the pictures are out of stock now!! THIS IS INSANE!! #Jin#bts#fredjewelry
This deal with Maison Fred is Jin’s first solo endorsement for a luxury brand. In 2021, Louis Vuitton tapped all seven members of BTS to be brand ambassadors. This was back when Virgil Abloh was artistic director for menswear. Before enlisting in the South Korean military 18 months ago, Jin signed a deal with Ottogi to endorse Jin Ramen noodles.
The 31-year-old is the first BTS member to complete his mandatory service, and he quickly reconnected with fans through a “hugathon” event to mark BTS’s 11th anniversary. He also dropped a limited-edition collab with outdoors specialist Kolon, featuring the Wootteo cartoon character from one of his singles.
In a recent Q&A on the fan platform Weverse, Jin revealed that he’s filming variety shows and recording new music. Although he didn’t provide release dates or other details, rumor has it that fans can expect him to drop an album in the second half of the year. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: Jin’s star power caused the brand’s website to crash within hours of the announcement. Source: X/@seokjinism1.
On July 8, BTS’s Jin made headlines when he visited his alma mater, Bosung High School, to film content.
Bosung High School is located in Bangi-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul. It’s near notable landmarks like the KSPO Dome and the Olympic Park, both of which have served as venues for BTS concerts. The school is known for providing its students with a nurturing environment where they can focus on academic excellence and holistic development. It’s no surprise, then, that the school has produced distinguished alumni like Jin, politician Chun Jung-bae and Samsung Electronics vice-chairman Lee Jae-yong.
Word of Jin’s presence spread across campus like wildfire. As the BTS member walked through the school’s corridors, students eagerly swarmed around him, calling out his name in excitement. Some even confessed their love for him, reminiscent of the stories Jin once shared about his school days, when boys would give him flowers and chocolates.
Netizens cracked up when they saw photos and videos of the students trying to get to Jin. Some said the scene at the school was like something out of the movie Train to Busan, in which hordes of zombies fill the streets of South Korea. The students’ efforts weren’t in vain, as Jin did stop to sign a few autographs.
Several videos and photos of Jin taken by the students quickly spread online. Netizens noticed that he was wearing his old school uniform, sparking discussions about how handsome and young he looked. One fan marveled at how Jin looked even more like a teenager than some actual teens. However, one student—probably because he was sick of wearing the same uniform day in and day out—remarked, “What’s so pretty about our school uniform that you’re wearing it! Wear something expensive! Expensive!”
When clips of Jin toting a yellow umbrella circulated online, fans couldn’t help but be reminded of the popular K-drama LovelyRunner and its male lead Ryu Sun-jae, played by ByeonWoo-seok. Sun-jae often wore a school uniform, and a yellow umbrella that belonged to his love interest figured prominently in the show. Netizens were quick to point out that Jin looked like he could effortlessly play the role of Sun-jae.
Train To Busan but BTS Jin version. These students were running to see Seokjin. From military men to highschool students, we all really have a slim chance of getting that concert ticket in 2025/6.
Netizens wondered what Jin was filming at his old high school. Many fans believed he was creating content for the South Korean YouTube show Secret Transfer Students, where K-pop idols attend a school in uniforms and engage in activities with students, such as games and lunch. The idols also perform special stages for the students.
Previously, the K-pop girl group aespa participated in the show, and fans loved the content that came out of it. Although there’s no official confirmation yet, fans are waiting with bated breath for what Jin has in store for them. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: Jin posted these on Instagram. He really does look like a high schooler! Source: X/@inquirerdotnet.
BTS’s Jimin has made waves on the UK Official Singles Chart again, this time with a pre-release track from his second solo album. According to the chart dated July 5, Jimin’s new song “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (featuring Loco)” from MUSE debuted at No. 46. This achievement marks his fifth entry on this prestigious chart as a solo artist. “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (featuring Loco)” has also topped the UK’s Singles Downloads and Single Sales charts.
Outside of his releases with BTS, Jimin first appeared on the UK Official Singles Chart in 2023 with “VIBE.” This song, a collaboration with BIGBANG’s Taeyang, peaked at No. 96. He followed this with “Set Me Free Pt. 2,” which charted at No. 30, and “Like Crazy,” the title track of his debut solo album FACE, which climbed to No. 8. Also, “Angel Pt. 1,” which Jimin, JVKE, and Muni Long did for the Fast & Furious: Ride or Die OST, went to No. 82.
The song is also succeeding in the US, where it entered the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart at No. 88 for the week of July 13. This makes it Jimin’s fifth solo track to chart on Billboard, after “VIBE,” which debuted at No. 76. His biggest Hot 100 hit, of course, was “Like Crazy.” It went to No. 1, making Jimin the first Korean soloist to achieve such a feat.
Jimin ‘Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (feat. Loco)’ 1st Win M COUNTDOWN
Jimin triumphed on M Countdown
Speaking of firsts, Jimin recently earned his first music show victory for “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (featuring Loco).” On the July 11 episode of Mnet’s M Countdown, Jimin went up against BABYMONSTER’s “FOREVER” for the win. Ultimately, he triumphed with a total of 7,574 points. Not surprising, because “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (featuring Loco)” is backed by big band orchestral elements and hip-hop beats that, when combined with Jimin’s vibrant vocals and Loco’s smooth rapping, create a unique track that stands out.
Jimin has also revealed what inspired him to do the song in a behind-the-scenes video for the BANGTANTV YouTube channel.
Meanwhile, at midnight on July 6, BTS’s official social media shared new mood photos for the second concept of MUSE, titled “SERENADE.” The first concept, “BLOOMING,” focused on flowers, while the “SERENADE” concept featured a guitar as the main prop. In these photos, Jimin was clad in an elegant black suit, standing next to a vintage guitar. More photos and clips for “SERENADE” dropped on July 7. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: Jimin’s cheerful new song is bounding up charts worldwide. Source: Weverse.
![[복합문화공간 강남 카페] 식물관PH Sikmulgwan PH / Seoul cafe](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/_mPREujY4j4/hqdefault.jpg)
