With the announcement of BTS's upcoming album, ARIRANG, we find ourselves standing before a title that is much more than a simple folk song—it’s part of the cultural DNA of Korea. As a team without Korean heritage, we recognize that it is not our place to define “Arirang” for anyone. Instead, we want to act as a signpost, guiding curious ARMY toward the scholars, creators, and community members of Korean cultural background who can best explain the depth of this unofficial national anthem.

BTS & “Arirang” Have Come Together Before…

Click the thumbnail below to view their amazing performance at KCON 2016 in France.

BTS performing “Arirang” at the KCON 2016 Opening Ceremony in France. Courtesy of KCON Official.

What is “Arirang”?: Scholarly and Korean Cultural Resources

Below is a collection of resources to help us listen, learn, and appreciate the cultural roots BTS is sharing with ARMY and the world.

Resources from International & Korean Cultural Organizations

• UNESCO (Republic of Korea): A look at how “Arirang” functions as a living tradition in South Korea, emphasizing its role in fostering community—bonding and creativity through its thousands of variations.

• UNESCO (DPRK): Highlights “Arirang” as a symbol of shared heritage across the peninsula, reflecting the national sentiment and the resilience of the Korean spirit.

• National Folk Museum of Korea: An exploration of arirang as the ultimate expression of Han (sorrow) and joy, illustrating how the song encapsulates the tumultuous history of the Korean people.

• Academy of Korean Studies: A grand prize winning essay into how the song “Arirang” promoted solidarity during periods of colonization and diaspora (people who live separately from their homeland—used here to indicate people of Korean heritage living outside of Korea), acting as a unifying medium for Koreans worldwide.

Insights from Korean Creators

• HYBE BOY (YouTube): A poignant reflection on why BTS choosing this title feels bittersweet, reframing the comeback as an act of returning to one’s roots despite the complexities of national identity.

• @jinwoopark0721 (Instagram): A music-focused breakdown of how “Arirang” has countless variations and is shaped by different regions and generations over time.

• DKDKTV (YouTube): An overview of the regional variations of “Arirang” and how BTS previously engaged with the song to express pride in their cultural heritage.

• Jae-Ha Kim (Substack): A renowned journalist provides historical context on the song’s status as a resistance anthem and what it signifies for BTS to bring this to the global stadium stage.

• TK (So What): A personal and analytical take on the linguistic nuances of “Arirang” and how its themes of longing and separation resonate with BTS recently returning from mandatory service.

Reflections from ARMY with Korean Cultural Background

To truly understand arirang we must listen to those for whom the word carries a lifetime of weight. Two Korean-American members of our community, Kiki Mama and JJK, shared their thoughts about “Arirang” and what this comeback means to them. We are honored to amplify their voices here.

Q: In your own words, how would you define the concept of arirang? Because there is no direct English translation, we are interested in the nuances this word carries in Korean culture.

Kiki Mama: It is really hard to define Arirang as a concept because to me, it is a feeling... a traditional folk song that has always symbolized Korea, its people, culture, and pride. The fact that BTS named their comeback album ARIRANG means to me that they are going back to their roots, musically.

JJK: “Arirang” is not just an ancient Korean folk song about sadness, struggle, separation/loss, longing, and hope, it's the cultural anthem of our history and identity and is the weight we carry of our ancestors. It's their legacy. But it's also our hope for the next generation and for a better life.

Q: As BTS prepares to bring ARIRANG to a global stage, what cultural concepts do you feel are most important for ARMY to understand?

Kiki Mama: Just having love and understanding for each other.

JJK: My wish is that ARMY takes the time to learn about Korea's sad history and what Koreans endured through war, occupation, poverty, etc. Only then can they understand why emotions such as Han and Jeong (belonging)exist and also how and why Korea has rapidly evolved into an advanced country, driven by the pursuit of excellence. BTS' journey of struggle, overcoming obstacles and hardships, and resilience is an example of arirang.

What does “Arirang” mean to you personally, particularly in the context of your upbringing or cultural identity? How has your understanding evolved over time?

Kiki Mama: “Arirang” is a comforting, familiar song that all Koreans know because it’s part of the fabric of our Korean culture. Just as a hanbok is the traditional clothing of Korea, or kimchi is a staple of a Korean meal, “Arirang” has long been a song that represents us as Koreans. Growing up, my parents would bring us to many cultural shows, and inevitably, “Arirang” would be performed. Now, as an adult hearing the song, it feels like a huge blanket covering me. My first reaction to hearing that this was the name of BTS’ album… I got so emotional. I thought, “Of course! It makes sense!”

JJK: “Arirang” resonates a little differently for the Korean diaspora. When you're raised outside Korea, you face racial discrimination and hatred and it leaves an indelible mark. When you're raised with Korean values and traditions at home and live in a Western society with very different values and mindset, it's difficult to reconcile the two worlds when you're young. And the longing to understand your cultural identity becomes even more important with time. I grew up hearing the song “Arirang” at home, and at Korean gatherings and events, so the song is an integral part of my childhood. Over time, “Arirang” has become less about struggle and hardship and more about Korean resilience and pride.

How does it feel to see this foundational piece of Korean culture being shared with the world on a massive scale?

Kiki Mama: Honestly, the whole ‘K-everything’ has been overwhelming to me, but I feel immense pride to be Korean, and BTS has been a large reason for that.

JJK: When I first saw the video of BTS (and other Korean artists) singing “Arirang” at KCON in France, it was a WTF moment. I remember showing it to my father and he was shocked to see the non-Korean faces in the audience singing along and cheering. It was surreal. The same faces that once disparaged us for being Korean are now celebrating Korean culture. Even today, I can't say I'm fully used to it. I have this conversation with my Korean friends and we find it perplexing and a bit overwhelming at times. That said, BTS members have been incredible cultural ambassadors for Korea, not only by spreading cultural awareness, but also by healing Koreans and replacing what once were feelings of shame to feelings of immense pride.

Is there anything else that you’d like to share with ARMY around the world regarding the concept of arirang and/or the Spring 2026 comeback?

Kiki Mama: Knowing how introspective and deeply meaningful their music is, I expect nothing short of a spectacular and memorable album and comeback! Borahae!

JJK: Naming their comeback album ARIRANG is so meaningful and appropriate. I loved seeing the immediate curiosity and response from ARMY. Their launch in the Spring brings a renewed sense of hope and excitement. This will be ARMY's “Arirang”!

Sailing into Spring Together

With only a couple days until the comeback, it has become clearer than ever that ARIRANG is not a simple title. For BTS, it’s a return to their roots; for the Korean people, it’s a song of resilience that has survived centuries; and for ARMY, it’s an opportunity to listen and learn.

By engaging with the resources and reflections shared here, we hope to move beyond being mere fans to also becoming mindful students of the culture BTS so proudly represents. We may not share the heritage of “Arirang”, but through their music, we are invited to cross the "Arirang Pass" alongside BTS—appreciating the sorrow, celebrating the joy, and honoring the history that shaped the seven men we love and support.

At ARMY Project 529, our most basic etiquette rule is simple: love and respect all seven members.

To clear up any confusion and provide a definitive standard, let’s take a look back at the official Weverse BTS Fan Club Etiquette Notice from January 23, 2020. With so many new fans joining ARMY during Chapter Two, we felt it was the perfect time to revisit the official rules to ensure we’re all supporting BTS respectfully and responsibly.

TL;DR: BTS Fan Club Etiquette Summary

If you’re looking for a fast way to check the "dos and don’ts" of BTS fan club rules, here is a quick summary. We’ve distilled the core points of the official notice so you can stay informed at a glance. Please keep in mind that this is a summary for guidance only. To ensure you have the full context, or if you are looking for exact wording, please refer to the directly quoted text in the next section.

Private Spaces & Unofficial Schedules

• Do not visit any location not listed as an official schedule on the BigHit Entertainment website or Weverse.

  • Locations: This includes company offices, practice/backstage areas, and living spaces (including family homes).

• Travel: Do not use information acquired improperly to visit airports or board the same flight as the artists.

• Deliveries: Do not leave or send gifts/letters to private locations.

No Stalking or Unauthorized Access

• Do not attempt to contact, visit, follow, or make physical contact with the members.

• Friends & Family: These rules also apply to the members' family, friends, and acquaintances.

• Restricted Areas: Do not illegally copy or acquire passes to enter waiting rooms or approach the artists at venues.

Personal Information

• It is strictly forbidden to buy, sell, or attempt to transact the members’ personal data, including:

  • Resident registration numbers, phone numbers, home addresses, or IDs.

  • Flight information (flight numbers or seat numbers).

Photography & Recording Restrictions

• Airports: The notice explicitly bans photography/recording at ticket counters, security checkpoints, lounges, duty-free stores, boarding gates, security areas, and baggage claim areas.

• Prohibited Gear: Do not bring any recording devices (except mobile phones) into venues. Mobile phones may not be used for recording where prohibited.

• Consequences: If caught, you must delete the data and will be escorted out. BigHit is not responsible for any device damage during your removal.

Interfering with Operations

• Do not block the artists' vehicles or engage in vehicle chases.

• Do not refuse to cooperate with management, security personnel, or staff.

Other Inappropriate Acts

• Identity: Do not assume a false identity (using someone else's ID or forged documents) for fan activities.

• Participation: Do not apply for music show seats and then fail to show up; this takes opportunities away from other ARMY.

• Threats: Any action that physically or mentally threatens the artists is prohibited.

Official BTS Fan Club Rules

For those who want the full, unabridged details, we have provided the official English translation of the Fan Club Etiquette notice below. Staying familiar with this specific language is the best way to protect your membership status and, most importantly, the safety and privacy of the BTS members.

Official BTS Fan Club Etiquette Notice (January 23, 2020)

1. Please do not visit sets or locations closed to the public or private spaces.

• Do not visit sets, locations or activities that are not listed as official on the Big Hit Entertainment schedule page or via Weverse announcement. Do not visit private spaces such as company offices, practice rooms, living spaces or nearby areas, and any other locations that BTS has visited or are related to them.

• Do not visit airports or board the same flight as the artists during any part of their domestic or international activities including tours and personal traveling by using information acquired improperly.

• Do not send or leave gifts or letters at the artists’ private locations (living space, family home, etc.).

2. Please do not stalk the artists.

• Do not carry out or repeatedly attempt to contact, visit, follow, talk to or make physical contact with the artists.

• Do not attempt the above actions towards the family members, friends and acquaintances of the artists.

• Do not attempt to access the waiting room of the artist or try to approach them by illegally copying, producing or acquiring passes at concert venues or other similar access-controlled locations.

3. Please do not sell or purchase the artists’ personal information.

• Do not transact or attempt to transact the artists’ personal information such as resident registration number, phone number, address, ID, etc.

• Do not transact or attempt to transact flight information such as flight number or seat number.

4. Please do not take photographs or record video or audio except where permitted.

• Do not covertly photograph or record video or audio of the artists in closed sets or locations, or in their private spaces.

• Do not photograph or take video or audio, or broadcast (live stream) video or audio where such activities are prohibited.

• Do not violate rules prohibiting the possession of any devices capable of recording video or audio into concert or other venues (except mobile phones), or use mobile phones for the purpose of recording video or audio.

• Do not engage in video or audio recording activities that violate copyrights.

• Areas where recording is not permitted: inside airports (ticket counter, security checkpoint, lounge, duty-free stores, boarding gate, security area, baggage claim area), inside network broadcast studios, and performances and any venues where recording video or audio is prohibited.

• If violations are discovered, you may be asked to delete any video or audio recordings, and will be escorted out of the venue.

• We hold no responsibility for any devices damaged while you are being escorted out.

• If violations are discovered during open music show recordings, the network may sanction the entire ARMY fan body.

5. Please do not interfere with artist-related activities.

• Do not interfere with the duties of artist management staff, security personnel in Korea and abroad or any other persons carrying out artists-related activities, or refuse to comply with their requests for cooperation.

• Do not block the artists from entering their vehicles or prevent the vehicles from moving normally.

• Do not engage in a vehicle chase with the artists’ vehicles.

6. Please do not engage in other inappropriate actions.

• Do not assume a false identity to engage in fan activities (transfering ID cards, using an unlawfully-acquired ID, using another person’s ID or documents or forging such documents).

• Do not limit the opportunities of other members from attending events by applying for then failing to show up for a Fan Club seat for a music show broadcast or failing to bring the necessary identity verification materials to such an event.

• Do not engage in actions that physically or mentally threaten the artists.

• Do not force a gift on the artist except handwritten letters. (Please refer to the separate notice on fan letters).

• Do not engage in other improper and inappropriate actions unbefitting of a fan or that which may be seen in a negative light by the fandom.

<For Violations of Fan Club Rules>

1. If any violations of the Fan Club etiquette rules are discovered, you may be restricted or prohibited from receiving the benefits of the official BTS GLOBAL OFFICIAL FANCLUB (ARMY Membership) without prior warning.

2. Entrance to an official BTS activity (performance, music shows, fan signing events, etc) may be restricted or prohibited without prior notice.

3. If any actions that do not comply with the etiquette rules above are found to be unlawful, evidence may be collected and violators may be subject to civil and criminal penalties.

Navigating Fan Etiquette LIVE Discussion recorded 20260204 and hosted by Admins Patricia and Quince with Mods Leslie and Em. To skip directly to the section on fan etiquette and community standards, fast-forward to [01:00:05].

ARMY Etiquette FAQ: Understanding the Fine Print

• Q: Can I give BTS a gift if I see them in person?

  A: No. The notice states that you must not "force a gift on the artist." We’ve seen information that you may mail handwritten letters, however we cannot find confirmation on any official sites. Therefore, the best way to send BTS a message is to write a post or digital fan letter on their official fandom platform, Weverse. 
  

  Exception: some official fan events like fansigns allow ARMY to share a small gift or letter. Follow the official event rules regarding permitted gift types and sizes.

• Q: Is it okay to share "fan taken" photos or videos from a private location?

  A: According to the notice, you should avoid sharing or consuming content filmed in private or non-permitted spaces. This includes "leaked" photos from airports (past security) or private outings. Sharing these can unintentionally encourage others to violate the members' privacy. 

  Exception: We have seen photos and videos on our timeline from lucky ARMY who meet BTS members ‘on the street’. If a member poses for a photo with a fan, we assume permission was granted, therefore this is acceptable under the Fan Club Rules.

• Q: What should I do if I see another fan violating these rules in person or online?

  A: Your safety comes first. Do not engage in a confrontation. Instead, look for official staff or security personnel nearby and report the behavior to them. If you see violations online, you can report the accounts via the official HYBE reporting portal.

• Q: Do I have to follow the same rules for their family members?

  A: Yes. The notice explicitly states that stalking and/or harassment rules apply to the artists' family, friends, and acquaintances as well. Respecting their privacy is just as important as respecting the members themselves.

• Q: Does BigHit Music take legal action for violations of Fan Club Etiquette?

  A: Yes. If an action is found to be unlawful (such as the selling of personal info or stalking), BigHit will collect evidence and pursue civil and criminal penalties. The results of these actions are sometimes featured in the quarterly “Updates on Legal Proceedings Against Violation of Artist Rights”, or, as we like to call it, the “FAFO Notice”.

• Q: Will I get a warning before my membership is revoked?

  A: No. Benefits may be restricted or membership revoked without prior warning if a violation is discovered.

Supporting a Respectful Fan Culture for BTS

At the end of the day, these rules aren’t just about following a list of restrictions—they are about creating an environment where BTS feels safe, respected, and free to share parts of their lives with their fans. When we respect their boundaries, we are protecting the bond that makes ARMY so special.

As we navigate Chapter Two and beyond, let’s remember to follow these official guidelines. Thank you for being a part of our community and helping us prioritize the wellbeing of the artists we love. Let’s continue to show the world the best side of ARMY!

SOURCES

• [WEVERSE NOTICE] BTS Fan Club Etiquette Notice

Concert Tip: When BTS asks if you’re ready, the correct response is a resounding YES! At a Korean concert, this is pronounced NE! and written as 네 in Hangul.

Whether this is your first online concert or your tenth, the options can feel like a bit overwhelming. We’ve done our best to break down everything from time zone conversions to delayed streaming dates to make it easy for you to catch the concerts.

⚠️ Important: There is no VOD (Video on Demand) service for this event. The live stream and the delayed stream (see below) are your only chances to watch!

🗓️ Mark Your Calendar: Live Stream Dates

All three Goyang concerts are being live streamed directly from South Korea. These are real-time broadcasts, so there is no pause or rewind button if you jump in late!

See the table below for time conversions, and don’t forget to swipe horizontally on mobile to view more time zones.

🔄 Missed the Live? Delayed Streaming

Every pass includes access to a delayed replay (or three delayed replays, if you purchase the multi-day pass). As with the live concerts, these are streamed at a specific time, and there is no ability to pause or rewind. The delayed replays are perfect for fans who may have missed the original concerts in the middle of the night, or just a great way to relive the magic.

⚠️ Important: Some replay times fall on the previous calendar day depending on your local time zone.

🎟️ Ticket Options & Pricing

Whether you want to catch one day or the whole weekend, here are the options you can choose from if you have an ARMY Membership through Weverse. ARMY Membership holders are eligible for 4K quality live streaming.

*Currency conversions are approximations based on February 2026 exchange rates.

And here are the options for people who do not have an ARMY Membership through Weverse. Please note that the general public is only eligible for “HD” quality live streaming. If you’d like to become an ARMY Membership holder, learn more in this blog post.

Special Perk: Weverse Collection Badge

Don't forget that buying a ticket earns you a Weverse Collection Badge 🏆. It will show up in your "My Collection" page after April 15, 2 PM KST. It’s a small digital trophy to remember the 'ARIRANG' era!

🔔 Reminders & Tech Tips

Light stick ready? 🔎 Snacks prepped? 🍿 Before you settle into the couch, let’s talk logistics! To help you navigate Weverse streaming like a pro, we’ve rounded up the essential rules, reminders, and technical requirements below. Keep these handy so you can focus on the music, not the troubleshooting!

Where to Watch: Official Streaming Link

• Sales Deadline: Tickets stay on sale until about 30 minutes after the concert starts.

• One Device Only: You can only be logged into one device at a time. If you try to share your login with a friend, one of you will get kicked out mid-song!

• Test Your Connection: If you bought the 4K ticket, use the Test Link before the show. 4K requires 30 Mbps; if your speed is lower, just toggle it to 1080p for a smoother experience.

• Mirroring: Want it on the big screen? Use an HDMI cable from your laptop to your TV for the most stable connection. AirPlay/Chromecast often lag.

• Subtitles: English, Japanese, and Chinese (Simplified) are provided, with machine translations for many other languages.

SOURCES

• [WEVERSE NOTICE] BTS WORLD TOUR ‘ARIRANG’ IN GOYANG Online Live Streaming Ticket Information

BTS is returning to the stage after many years and also making their long-awaited Spanish debut at Madrid’s Riyadh Air Metropolitano. Spanish ARMYs are legendary for their passion, so this European leg is going to be electric. As AP529’s resident Spaniard, I’ve curated this "Bangtan-Style" guide to help you navigate my hometown like a pro.

✈️ Arriving in Madrid: "A la Billionaire" or "Bon Voyage"?

Madrid, the capital of the “Kingdom of Spain”, is located more or less in the middle of the country. If you are coming by air, you’ll likely land at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas (MAD) airport. Here’s how to get to the city center from there:

Public Transport (The "Bon Voyage" Route)

• Metro/ Subway (Line 8 - Pink): Connects all terminals to Nuevos Ministerios. From there, you can transfer to almost anywhere. Cost: ~$5 (including the 'Multi' card). Time: 30-40 mins. 

• Airport Express Bus (Line 203): The bright yellow 24/7 bus. It drops you at Plaza de Cibeles or Atocha. Cost: €5 (Pay by card/mobile). Time: 40 mins.

• Cercanías Train (C1): Best from T4 to Chamartín or Atocha. Cost: ~$3. Time: 25 mins. 

Private Transport (The "Billionaire" Route)

1. Taxi: Fixed rate of €33 to the city center (interior of M-30). No surprises!

2. Ride-Sharing: Use Uber or Cabify (the local favorite). Note: They have specific pickup points in the airport parking garages.

🗺️ The "Bangtan-Style" Itinerary

Madrid is a big city that has a small town feeling. If I were tour-guiding the members through Madrid, here is where we’d go:

RM: Art & Rare Books

Namjoon came to Spain with his family before military service in the Spring of 2023. He did an interview for the biggest Spanish newspaper, El Pais, and gifted us several IG photo drops (Drop 1, Drop 2, Drop 3), sharing some of the sights he enjoyed, including landmarks in Barcelona and Bilbao.

As someone who deeply appreciates art, I would take Namjoon to one of the most important museums in the world: El Museo del Prado. Namjoon will certainly love this “museum of painters,” built with the private collections of kings who favored specific masters. Here, he could see the entire lifespan of genius of artists like Goya, whose raw and visceral works are on the same wavelength as RM’s 2024 album, Right Place Wrong Person.

I can see him spending a long time contemplating Las Meninas by Velázquez—which is a meta-commentary on the act of seeing and being seen. This is a topic RM often also reflects on in his lyrics. Since Namjoon already saw Picasso's famous reinterpretation of this work in Barcelona, his visit to Madrid would finally allow him to experience the original. Afterward, we’d take a walk to the tree-lined Cuesta de Moyano, an open air book market that sells rare editions and vintage books.  It’s the perfect place for him to pick up a beautiful coffee table book for his new home. 

Jin: The Culinary King

Jin probably won’t have to repeat his "TEMU mulhoe" shenanigans in Madrid. Spain has several highly-rated Korean restaurants (Namjoon reportedly visited one with his family), but even if Jin is super loyal to his country’s cuisine, I would love for him to experience an “Eat Jin: Spanish Version.”

Our culinary exploration would have to start with a tapas feast. Tapas are the “appetizers” in Spanish cuisine, but they can be combined together to form a whole meal shared between friends and family. I would take Jin to Mercado de San Miguel. Once a traditional market, it now houses everything from the best Spanish jamón (premium dry-cured ham) to the freshest shellfish—a true “Disney World” for the palate (Namjoon can attest to that; the photo above shows him visiting el Mercado).

Nearby sits the oldest restaurant in the world, Casa Botin, which has been serving Spanish delicacies for over 300 years and has had illustrious visitors like Miguel de Cervantes, the writer of Don Quixote. And for dessert? Jin should definitely listen to the members of ATEEZ, who made a famous late-night raid of Chocolateria de San Gines. Their thick hot chocolate and churros are a favorite of madrileños (residents of Madrid) of every age. I’d suggest bringing Hobi along for the ride too, since we know he loves churros!

SUGA: Guitars & Views

Yoongi mentioned in passing that he was looking forward to the Barcelona stop of the MOTS tour to maybe visit some of Gaudi’s architectural marvels. His visit to Catalonia will have to wait, but there are still some locations in Madrid he would surely enjoy.

Even if Yoongi wasn’t a fan of woodworking, I am pretty sure he would change his mind after visiting one of the most prestigious guitar houses in the world, Guitarras Ramirez, which has been making high quality guitars for five generations. Or maybe he would like to attend a concert for classic or flamenco guitar and discuss the nuances of wood and construction with the staff of Guitarras de Luthier.

From the tour visit to Chicago, we know he enjoyed the views of the city from the highest buildings. The terrace of Circulo de Bellas Artes is not quite as high, but it has a stunning 360° view of the city center and its most emblematic buildings, particularly at sunset. 

j-hope: Dancing & Shopping

I would love to get j-hope to dance in Spain, maybe giving him ideas for a new Hope on the Street documentary episode. We also know that he is quite a fashionista, so some shopping is in order for our Hobi.

For inspiration, I would send him to the Nuevos Ministerios Esplanade, which is not only near one of the main hubs of transportation but also an iconic spot where local street dancers gather to practice. Breakdancers and hip-hop crews practice in the smooth stone floors, and maybe he could record a quick freestyle video for his TikTok.  After checking out some dancing crews, he can go get himself some cool street wear from two Spanish brands: Nude Project, known for its exclusive high-end streetwear, and Loewe, the classic alternative Spanish version of LV. 

To end the day, it’d be great to reunite SOPE, and have j-hope and Yoongi visit a classic flamenco tablao like Corral de la Moreria or Cardamomo.  SUGA has a deep respect for "unfiltered" emotion in music and j-hope, as an expert technical dancer, need to discover this deep music genre. Yoongi would appreciate the intricate guitars and the duende, an untranslatable word that embodies flamenco’s emotional spirit, and I can only hope our Hobi would like to jump on stage and try to match the energy of the flamenco dancers.

Jimin: Angels & Demons 

Jimin, with his dancer stance and his sweet disposition, can tag along to any of the other members’ plans I have described. He’d probably enjoy the Spanish food tour with Jin, or even a flamenco show with SOPE. Still, I have my own plans for Jimin.

I can totally see the maknae line, with Jimin as their captain, renting a boat at the Gran Estanque in Parque del Buen Retiro. This is the "green lung" of Madrid, a 350-acre UNESCO World Heritage site known for its lush gardens. Jimin can bring RM to do some quintessential Namjooning by taking a walk in the rose garden (La Rosaleda), or just sit in quiet contemplation by the Palacio de Cristal. The Park also reminds me of our Jimin’s duality as it displays the only statue of the devil in a public park in the world, el Angel Caido (the Fallen Angel). 

As a trained contemporary dancer with a deep love for performance art, Jimin would be captivated by a night at Madrid’s Teatro Real. This grand theater with interiors that parallel the location of “Black Swan,” hosts world-class ballet productions. During intermission, you can step on the balcony overlooking the beautiful Plaza de Oriente and the Royal Palace.

V: Parisian Chic & Jazz

Kim Taehyung visited Spain when he was preparing Layover. He filmed all the M/Vs for the album in several locations across Spain. In Madrid, he chose one of the apartments at the top of Torres Blancas, a brutalist architectural gem in Avenida de America, in which to film “Rainy Days”. 

Tae can find some of the Parisian chic he loves in the Baroque and Neoclassicly designed Royal Palace, which is surrounded by the Sabatini Gardens, a perfect place for a taking pictures while on a thoughtful walk. Not far away, at Puerta del Sol, he could visit Viena Capellanes, which is famous for its flaky, buttery croissants. The chain, founded in 1873, is perfect for a quick lunch or a pastry and has an old-timey feel—decorated with pretty marble-topped wrought iron tables V would love.

For the evening, I would definitely send him to the Barrio de las Letras (Literary Quarter) for a visit to Cafe Central. This Art Deco club has been hosting world-class jazz for four decades and is known for its exceptional acoustics. Sitting at a table on the outdoor terrace to people-watch while listening to the music drift outside sounds like a perfect plan for our Tae Tae.

Jung Kook: High-Energy Adventures

Our Golden Maknae is a daredevil who needs some adrenaline-fueled alternatives to fill the time between concerts in Madrid. I can definitely find some heart-pounding activities that will match his athletic and adventurous nature.

JK can start with defying gravity at Madrid Fly. This is one of the largest and most modern indoor skydiving facilities in Europe. Here you can experience the rush of a free fall without a parachute, guided with professional instructors, and you can also watch professional flyers exhibiting advanced aerial maneuvers. Knowing Jung Kook, he will probably master them in no time. 

The other option is X Madrid, an unconventional commercial space dedicated to extreme sports, urban art, and alternative retail. It features a massive climbing wall, a deep diving pool, and a skate park, along with several motorbike gear stores and a wide selection of niche streetwear. After his exploration, maybe the maknaes can all head together for a drink in one of Madrid’s most famous underground spots, Medias Puri. Hidden behind the facade of a hosiery shop, this club hosts high-production live shows including aerialists and dancers. Our guys can get “lost in the lights” and enjoy Madrid’s legendary nightlife.

💜 ARMY Activities in Madrid

While you're waiting for soundcheck or during your "off" days, here is how to keep the purple energy going in the city:

1. BT21 Shopping: You don't have to go to Seoul for your merch fix. Head to the Line Friends sections in the major El Corte Inglés department stores (the ones at Preciados or Castellana are your best bets).

2. K-Pop Cafés & Cupsleeves: Madrid’s Malasaña district is the heart of the local fan scene. Check out Han-A Madrid or the local bubble tea shops; they almost always host cupsleeve events during concert weeks. It’s the best way to meet Spanish ARMYs and trade photocards!

3. The "Namjooning" Day Trip: If you have an extra day, I wholeheartedly recommend a trip to Toledo (only 30 mins by high-speed train). Namjoon visited with his parents in 2023, and you can recreate his iconic photo from the Parador balcony. The view of the medieval city is breathtaking.

BTS Madrid Concert Guide

The ARIRANG Tour is heading to one of Europe’s most modern stadiums. Located in the San Blas-Canillejas district, it has a 70,000 capacity and an incredible atmosphere.

Fun Fact: The Metropolitano is the home of Atlético de Madrid. Their fans are known for being the Spanish Soccer League  "underdogs"—resilient, passionate, and incredibly loud. It feels poetic for BTS to perform here! Their colors are also Red and White…does that remind you of something?

📅 Essential Concert Details

• Dates: Friday, June 26 & Saturday, June 27, 2026

• Venue: Riyadh Air Metropolitano, Madrid

• Showtime: 20:00 (Expected)

📍 How to Get There

• Metro (Recommended):  Take Line 7 (Orange) and get off at Estadio Metropolitano. This station was built specifically for massive crowds, so it’s huge and efficient.

• Alternative Metro: If Line 7 is too packed, Line 2 (Las Rosas) and Line 5 (Canillejas) are about a 15-minute walk away.

• Bus: Lines 28, 38, 48, 140, E2 serve this area. After the show, look for the "Búhos" (Owls)—our night buses that run when the Metro closes.

💡 Resident Spaniard Pro-Tip: Buy your "Tarjeta Multi" (transport card) at the airport and top it up with a 10-trip pass. It’ll save you from the massive ticket machine queues after the concert, and you can use it for the Metro and buses all week. The subway in Madrid is modern, clean, fast, safe, and reliable. After living in NYC for over 20 years, el Metro feels like heaven. 

🧳 Packing List: Survival in the Madrid Heat

Madrid in late June is hot. We’re talking 30°C (86°F) and very dry. To avoid feeling like a "burnt crisp," don't forget:

• Army Bomb: This concert is happening after Busan so you will need the new version to connect to the app and be part of the light show at the concert.

• Hydration: Bring a sealed water bottle (50cl max). Security usually removes the cap at the entrance, so drink up while in line!

• Sunscreen: Apply profusely, Kim Taehyung style. The Spanish sun does not play.

• The "Abanico": You can use a battery fan, but I suggest going the traditional way with a Spanish abanico (hand fan). Spanish ARMY wants to fill the stadium with purple fans for the concert so it is a perfect excuse to get yours!

• Power Bank: Between digital tickets and 4K fancams, your battery will die fast.

• Small Bag:  The stadium is strict—aim for a small transparent bag (30x15x30 cm/ 12"x6"x12") or a tiny clutch.

ℹ️ Fan Etiquette & Safety:

• Fan Chants: Get loud! Spanish crowds are famous for their energy, and the members have waited a long time to hear us.

• Respect other ARMY: When filming, try to keep your phone at eye level so you don't block the ARMY behind you. Let's all see the magic!

• Clean after yourself: Let's leave the Metropolitano spotless so the staff remembers ARMY as the best fandom in the world.

• Respect the Neighborhood: The stadium is in a residential area. When we leave after the show, let’s try to leave the "shouting" and fan chants at the stadium and be quiet as we head to the Metro.

Basic ARMY Spanish

🏟️ Concert Essentials

"¿Dónde está la cola para el merchandising?" – Where is the line for merch?

"¿Me puede rellenar la botella de agua, por favor?" – Can you refill my water bottle, please? (Madrid tap water is actually famous for being the best in Spain!)

"¿Por qué puerta se entra?" – Which gate to enter?

"¡No empujéis, por favor!" – Don’t push, please! (Useful for barricade safety).

"¿Me puedes hacer una foto?" – Can you take a photo of me?

🛍️ Shopping with Hobi & Tae

"¿Tenéis esto en otra talla?" – Do you have this in another size?

"Es mazo chulo." – This is super cool. ("Mazo" is the most famous Madrid slang for "very" or "a lot").

"Me flipa tu outfit." – I'm obsessed with your outfit. (A great way to make friends in the merch line).

"¿Aceptáis tarjeta?" – Do you accept card?

🥘 "Eat Jin" Phrases

"Una de churros con chocolate, por favor." – An order of churros and chocolate, please.

"Agua del grifo, por favor." – Tap water, please. (Saying "grifo" instead of just "agua" tells them you want the free, delicious Madrid tap water).

"La cuenta, cuando puedas." – The bill, whenever you can. (A polite way to ask for the check).

"Está mazo rico." – This is super tasty.

🚇 "Namjooning" Basics

"¿Sabe dónde para el Búho?" – Do you know where the night bus stops? (Remember, Búho means "Owl," which is what we call the night buses).

"¿Este metro va hacia el centro?" – Does this train go toward the city center?

"¡Vale!" – Okay! / Understood! (You will hear this 100 times a day. It’s the universal Spanish word for "OK").

Note: All technical details and timelines are provided per the Weverse Shop product listings, Weverse Notice BTS OFFICIAL LIGHT STICK VER.4 Release and Wireless Control Support, and Weverse Shop US Notice Pre-order BTS OFFICIAL LIGHT STICK VER. 4.

How Much Does the BTS ARMY Bomb Light Stick Cost?

Weverse Shop USA Pricing

• BTS OFFICIAL LIGHT STICK VER. 4: $64.00

• BTS OFFICIAL LIGHT STICK CRADLE: $32.00

• BTS OFFICIAL LIGHT STICK PARTS (Each): $13.00

Weverse Shop Global Pricing

• BTS OFFICIAL LIGHT STICK VER. 4: $38.56

• BTS OFFICIAL LIGHT STICK CRADLE: $19.87

• BTS OFFICIAL LIGHT STICK PARTS (Each): $7.87

Why Are the Weverse Shop Global Prices Lower?

While the base prices on the Global Shop appear significantly lower, it is important to remember that Global prices are listed do not include international shipping fees, local taxes, and potential tariffs/customs fees. Weverse Shop Global ships direct from South Korea and Weverse Shop USA ships from within the USA. You can confirm this with the small “ships from” notes on each product listing near the title.

In most cases, the higher base price on the USA Shop accounts for the cost of importing the items in bulk to US warehouses. Conversely, while the Global Shop items have lower bases prices, but international shipping rates from South Korea are often much higher. Ultimately, once you reach the checkout screen, the total prices for ARMY in the US are usually very similar regardless of which shop you choose.

What Does the BTS Official Light Stick Ver. 4 Look Like?

View fullsize

View fullsize

What’s New with VER. 4?

The VER. 4 isn't just a cosmetic upgrade; it’s a total overhaul of how the light stick interacts with the concert environment.

• Subdivided Lighting Zones: Unlike previous versions, the VER. 4 globe is divided into multiple internal LED zones. This allows for complex color gradients and "moving" light effects across a single light stick. (We suspect this is why the lighting design cannot support older light stick versions from Festa 2026 and forward.)

• Enhanced Wireless Control: The new system features a refined data processing method that expands the range of displayable colors and creates smoother transitions coordinated with stage lighting.

• Pairing Confidence: A new pre-show feature allows your light stick to light up in sync with those nearby before the concert starts, giving you visual confirmation that you are successfully paired to the venue signal.

• New App: The updated app includes a venue map to find pairing booths, a "Concert History" log to track which shows you've attended, and "Self Mode" so you can use it as a mood lamp at home.

• Color Shaking: You can now change colors randomly in "Self Mode" simply by shaking the device.

View fullsize

View fullsize

Did They Say Accessories?!

For the first time, the ARMY Bomb Light Stick is part of a modular system. These accessories are sold separately:

• The Cradle: To use your ARMY Bomb as a home decor piece, the optional Cradle transforms it into a mood lamp. The Cradle features a USB-C port that provides power for "Self Mode" at home, but the light stick itself still requires batteries for portable use.

• Interchangeable Parts: To further personalize your ARMY Bomb, you can purchase includes interchangeable parts featuring the BTS and ARMY logos that can be swapped onto the top of the globe.

• Yet to Come?: Might we see more swappable parts released in the future to commemorate albums or milestones?

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

The Battery Question: Is it Rechargeable?

Are We Finally Moving Away from Disposable Batteries?

Based on the official product listings, no. The new VER. 4 ARMY Bomb will ship with a standard tray requiring three AAA batteries. None of the notices or listings explicitly confirm that the Light Stick will be compatible with the HYBE Official Rechargeable Battery, however we suspect it will be. Keep in mind that shipping for the rechargeable battery may be restricted in certain regions due to safety regulations.

Why Not Built-In Rechargeable?

While a built-in lithium-ion core is a frequent request, keeping the rechargeable element optional is a strategic choice. Because airlines and some concert venues have limitations on lithium-ion batteries, a removable battery tray offers a safer and more flexible setup. This ensures that traveling ARMY can comply with safety regulations while still having the choice to go rechargeable when at home or traveling by land.

Where to Buy BTS Official Light Stick Ver. 4

Weverse Shop USA

• Sale Starts: Sunday, February 8, 2026, at 6:00 PM PST (until sold out).

• Shipping Timeline: Orders are scheduled to start shipping on March 23, 2026.

• BTS OFFICIAL LIGHT STICK VER. 4

• BTS OFFICIAL LIGHT STICK VER. 4 CRADLE

• BTS OFFICIAL LIGHT STICK VER. 4 PARTS (BTS ver.)

• BTS OFFICIAL LIGHT STICK VER. 4 PARTS (ARMY ver.)

Weverse Shop Global

• Sale Starts: Monday, February 9, 2026, at 11:00 AM KST (until sold out).

• Shipping Timeline: Orders will begin shipping on the day of purchase.

• BTS OFFICIAL LIGHT STICK VER. 4

• BTS OFFICIAL LIGHT STICK VER. 4 CRADLE

• BTS OFFICIAL LIGHT STICK VER. 4 PARTS (BTS ver.)

• BTS OFFICIAL LIGHT STICK VER. 4 PARTS (ARMY ver.)

Target

• In stores starting March 20, 2026

• Online starting March 20, 2026

• BTS OFFICIAL LIGHT STICK VER. 4

The ‘Sunset’ Date for Older BTS Light Stick Versions

It is important to note that a transition period is coming. If you plan on attending BTS concerts in the second half of 2026, you will need the VER. 4 to participate in the synchronized light show.

• Until May 28, 2026 (Las Vegas): VER. 3, SE, and VER. 4 will all support wireless control.

• From June 12, 2026 (Busan) onwards: Wireless control will only be supported on VER. 4.

While the new technology is exciting, we want to make one thing clear—prior versions of the ARMY Bomb, including the Special Edition (SE), will still glow! The main difference is that they will no longer sync with the concert lighting system. Seeing a mix of light stick versions is very common at concerts, so please don’t feel pressured or embarrassed if you aren’t able to secure a VER. 4 in time for your show.

ARMY Bomb Light Stick FAQs

• Q: What is included in the BTS Official Light Stick Ver. 4 package?

  A: Inside the sleek black packaging, you will find:

  • The Light Stick: The newly redesigned Ver. 4 device.

  • Dust Bag: A protective fabric pouch to keep your light stick safe from scratches when not in use.

  • Strap: A branded hand strap to prevent the light stick from falling during high-energy concert moments.

  • Instant Photo Set: A special collection of "instant-style" member photos (photocards) unique to this version.

  • Product Manual

• Q: Where is the best place to buy an ARMY Bomb Light Stick?

  A: We strongly recommend buying only through Weverse Shop, Target, or official concert merch booths. We do not recommend buying from resellers on eBay or Amazon. These are often counterfeit and will not sync with the wireless systems at the venue, meaning your light stick won't change colors with the rest of the ARMY.

• Q: What if Weverse is sold out or shipping is too slow?

  A: Don’t panic! You can buy your light stick at the concert venue. They usually have plenty of stock.

  VIP Perk: If you know someone with a VIP ticket, they have early access to merch and a separate line—ask if they can pick one up for you!

• Q: Can I still use my VER. 3 or SE version?

  A: You can use it as a collectible or in "Self Mode," but it will no longer sync with the wireless concert lighting design for any concerts held after June 12, 2026.

The countdown has begun! With the new BTS album, ARIRANG, arriving on March 20th, ARMY is entering a season of excitement and preparation. Whether this is your first comeback or your fifth, there’s nothing quite like the energy of global ARMY coming together to celebrate new music and support OT7.

We know that navigating the world of charts, playlists, and "algorithm-friendly" listening can feel a little overwhelming at first. That’s why we’ve put together a short guide to help you focus your efforts. We want to ensure that every ARMY has the basic tools and knowledge to stream effectively for this comeback!

Regional Context: Although we are a US-based team and this guide focuses on Billboard US tracking, we are proud to have a diverse international community. To support global ARMY, we have noted country-specific differences wherever possible. We hope this helps everyone find their best path to supporting ARIRANG!

Premium vs. Free Streaming Accounts

While every stream is a show of support, Premium (paid) accounts carry significantly more weight on music charts. The numbers vary by country and by chart, but the concept holds true: streams from paid accounts always count more than streams from free accounts.

Billboard US Example: It takes 2.5 streams from a free account to equal 1 stream from a premium account. This means Premium streams are 2.5x as effective!

If a streaming subscription isn't in your budget, don’t stress!

Most services (Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, etc.) offer a 1-4 month free trial for new users. Right before a comeback is a great time to set one up! ARMY ON has easy links for free trial signup on their Carrd. Tip: Set a calendar reminder to cancel the day before the trial ends! You may also find someone who has an extra “seat” on their family account and is willing to set you up as an additional user.

Don’t Get Filtered: Stream Like a Human

Streaming platforms use algorithms to detect ‘bot-like’ behavior. If you loop a single song 100 times, those streams will likely be filtered out and won't count toward the music charts. The exact guidelines per platform aren’t officially published, but these are our best tips to avoid having your streams filtered out:

• Don't Loop: Always place 2-3 different songs between the focus track.

• Interact: Occasionally ‘like’ or ‘heart’ a song, skip a track (after it has played for at least 30 seconds), or adjust the volume.

• Avoid VPNs: Using a VPN to change your location can cause your streams to be flagged as spam and filtered out.

Where to Find Effective Playlists

Using a focused playlist is the simplest and easiest way to stream effectively. However, not all playlists are created equal; some lack essential filter tracks or fail to align with current charting goals.

The playlists linked below are curated by helpful ARMY volunteers to reflect new release music as well as other current charting goals (for example: songs near an anniversary or other milestone). 

• ARMY ON: A comprehensive site for BTS streaming information including up-to-date playlists for new releases. This site contains a wealth of resources and has social media accounts you can follow for updates.

• Berfy: An ‘evergreen’ Spotify playlist that is updated quickly after new music releases. The link never changes, so it's easy to save this playlist to your Spotify library and use it for a long time.

• Neringa BCD BTS Daily Missions: Another ‘evergreen’ Spotify playlist that updates daily to reflect the current BCD daily missions. Just like the playlist directly above, this link never changes. Save it to your Spotify library! The same Spotify user also has similar playlists for other charting goals.

Feel free to ask in the #streaming-charting-voting channel of our Discord server if you need help. You can find the invite for the Discord server on our links page.

Gamify Your Support: b-cd.app

@btschartdata is a longtime supporter of BTS who primarily worked on Twitter/X for prior comebacks. In 2025 they launched a website with a variety of features to make streaming more fun and rewarding for the ARMY community.

How the BTS Chart Data Site Works

Make a free account at https://b-cd.app/. Connect your streaming platform (Spotify, Apple Music, etc.) in the BCD settings via Last.fm or Stats.fm. The site then gives you “missions” each day (e.g., "Stream the new title track 10 times today") based on current charting goals. (Tip: use this playlist that updates each day to easily check off the daily missions!)

If checking a task off a list isn’t enough reward for you, you’ll also receive randomized digital photocards for completing missions. Just like physical cards, you can trade duplicates with other ARMY to complete your digital collection.

BCD also has daily games to test your knowledge of BTS music, music videos, and general facts. These brain-teasing games reward photocards for correct answers, so you’ll have even more PCs to trade.

It’s a great site and there are new features being added all the time. We’re excited to use it for this comeback!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: Does it count if I stream on mute?

  A: It is safer to not mute. If you need silence, plug in headphones or an AUX cord. Here is an inexpensive option for an aux cord, though you may already have one hanging around your home.

• Q: Should I ‘pre-save’ the album?

  A: Yes! Pre-saving on Spotify or Apple Music helps with ‘first-day’ momentum. You can find the pre-save links for ARIRANG at the bottom of this page.

• Q: Should I pre-purchase the digital album on iTunes/Amazon Music?

  A: No. The best strategy for digital purchasing is to buy each track individually on or after the actual release day (March 20th). Why? Billboard US counts 10 track sales as 1 album sale. By purchasing the 14 individual tracks, your purchases will equal 1.4 album sales. Also, purchases made before the release date will not count towards debut week charts. Important Note: be sure to download the song after purchasing, otherwise it will not count toward music charts!

• Q: Do YouTube and YouTube Music still count for Billboard US?

  A: As of January 2026, YouTube data is no longer included in Billboard US charts. However, YouTube remains critical for Korean Music Shows and global milestones! Please continue to stream official MVs, but focus your Billboard-specific goals on other platforms. Remember: Always watch the official MVs on BANGTANTV or HYBE LABELS channels.

• Q: Which streaming platforms count for Billboard US charts?

  A: These platforms remain the primary drivers for the Billboard US charts: Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Tidal. Billboard also tracks data from these services, which can be useful for diversifying your streaming: Deezer, Pandora, SoundCloud, Napster, Qobuz, Audiomack, LiveOne (formerly LiveXLive).

• Q: What is Stationhead and how do I use it?

  A: If you have a Premium Spotify or Apple Music account (premium account required), download the Stationhead app, link your streaming account, and follow the @btsofficial or @btschartdata accounts. If you listen to one of their streaming parties, it acts like a live radio station where a DJ plays the music for you and every listen counts as a stream. Also, the BTS members sometimes host Stationhead parties around the time of a comeback!

We know that comeback season can feel fast-paced, but remember: the most important part is enjoying the music. Don’t let anything overshadow the joy of finally hearing new OT7 songs! Stream when you can, buy if you’re able, and always prioritize your wellbeing.

If you have questions or just want to chat about the comeback, our Discord is always open. Let’s make ARIRANG a beautiful era for BTS and ARMY!

Updated: March 30, 2026

Current Status:

• North America & Europe: Presales and General Sales are complete.

• Current Focus: Resale, Travel Planning, and awaiting announcements for Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and more.

• Updates in this version are highlighted in yellow.

First Things First

I’m panicking, what should I do?

Read the official Tour website and Weverse notices, carefully. MANY of your questions can be answered there. Then, have a glass of water and do some box breathing. Remember: always prioritize official information over social media rumors.

• BTS World Tour OFFICIAL WEBSITE

• [NOTICE] BTS WORLD TOUR Announcement

• [NOTICE] BTS WORLD TOUR IN NORTH AMERICA & EUROPE Ticket Information

• [NOTICE] BTS WORLD TOUR IN GOYANG Announcement

FAQ Sections

• ARMY Membership Presale

• General Ticketing Info

• VIP Tickets

• Travel Plans

• Concert Outfits, Merch, & Freebies

• Live Streams

ARMY Membership Presale

What’s the difference between presale and general sale?

Presale is an ARMY Membership benefit. Per the notices linked at the beginning of the FAQ, you must register for presale by a specific date (see table below). This is only a registration—everyone who registers will have access to the presale queue using their ARMY Membership number as the ‘presale code’.

How do I register for presale?

Click the link in the Weverse announcements for Ticket Information that looks like the screenshot below. You will need to list which three (3) cities you want to apply for presale access.

Where is my presale code?

Only ARMY Membership holders who signed up in advance will be able to join the queue to access the presale. When prompted, enter your ARMY Membership Number to unlock access to tickets (9-digit ARMY Membership Number that starts with BA).

Where do I find my ARMY Membership Number?

1. Open Weverse (or the Weverse app on mobile) and open the BTS community.

2. Tap the "Membership" icon.

3. Click on "View Membership Details" under "ARMY MEMBERSHIP" to access your mobile membership card.

4. Find your 9-digit ARMY MEMBERSHIP NUMBER starting with BA.

5. For shows in the US, Canada, and Mexico, use either your US or your GLOBAL membership number (if you have both a US and a Global membership, use your US Membership number). For shows in the UK and Europe, use your Global membership number.

How do I find out when I was selected for presale?

Unlike prior BTS tours, this tour does not have a lottery system for presale access. Everyone who registers for presale using the links above by the deadline will have access. However, there will be a randomized queue on the ticket seller’s website to determine the order in which people can actually purchase tickets.

If you are searching for information online, you may find outdated references to a lottery system and unique presale codes delivered via text or email prior to the presale date. This information is not relevant or accurate for the ARIRANG tour. (Note: Japan does have a lottery system for tickets, as outlined in the Weverse notice linked at the top of the page.)

Does my Weverse email need to match my Ticketmaster email?

YES. Your Weverse ID (email address) associated with your ARMY Membership must match the email associated with your Ticketmaster account – if it doesn’t, you won’t be able to join the queue. 

If you’re already a member and your emails do not match, update your Ticketmaster email by January 18th at 3:00 PM PT / 4:00 PM MT / 5:00 PM CT / 6:00 PM ET / 11:00 PM GMT / January 19th at 12:00 AM CET. For more details, visit the Ticketmaster Help Center.

I used Apple’s Private Relay/Hide My Email feature when creating my Weverse account. What should I do?

According to the Ticketmaster FAQ, you will not be able to access the presale using that Weverse account. Email addresses cannot be changed on Weverse, and your Weverse email and your Ticketmaster email must match to join the queue.

Ticketmaster advises a new Weverse account using the same email on your Ticketmaster account and sign up for the presale with your new account by January 18th at 3:00 PM PT / 4:00 PM MT / 5:00 PM CT / 6:00 PM ET / 11:00 PM GMT / January 19th at 12:00 AM CET.

If you are unable to register a new account due to your phone number being verified on your original account, consider using a friend or family member’s phone number or signing up for a free Google Voice number.

How does presale work?

For both Ticketmaster and SeatGeek, they will open a waiting room about 30 minutes prior to the presale time for each venue. Joining the waiting room early does not give you any benefit. When the presale opens, you will be given a queue number, which is the order you will be able to access tickets.

When is the ARMY Membership presale?

Presale dates and times vary by concert venue and show date. Click here for a larger version of the table shown below. Green cells represent the local time of the concert venue. (Note: this was updated on January 21st to reflect the changes for Mexico City and Madrid.)

GENERAL TICKETING INFO

I want to buy tickets in [city], which ARMY Membership do I need?

• For shows in the US, Canada, and Mexico, use your US or GLOBAL Membership

  • If you have both US and GLOBAL Memberships, only your US Membership number will be validated

• For shows in the UK and Europe, use your GLOBAL Membership.

• For shows in Japan, see the associated Weverse notifications for details.

• For shows in South Korea, see the associated Weverse notifications for details.

How many tickets can I buy?

You may purchase a maximum of four (4) tickets per show. (Note: this may vary for the Goyang and Tokyo stops, which have unique ticketing information linked at the top of this page.)

Can I get presale for multiple cities if their presale is at the same time?

Yes, see next question.

Can I use multiple tabs/browsers/devices for a better chance at tickets?

If you are using the same Weverse ARMY Membership or Ticketmaster account, we cannot guarantee using multiple tabs, browsers, accounts, or devices will not get you kicked from the presale queue. We have heard stories from ARMYs who successfully bought tickets this way, and stories from ARMYs who were kicked out of the presale queue when using multiple tabs/browsers/devices.

There is one confirmed exception: Ticketmaster’s official fan support Twitter/X account stated that using multiple tabs within the same browser window with a different concert date on each tab is permitted. All of the tabs must be logged into the same Ticketmaster account. We confirmed that the same is true on SeatGeek.

Can I use multiple ARMY Memberships for a better chance at tickets?

Probably, to some degree. We haven’t tried this ourselves, but in theory, we believe Ticketmaster’s systems would allow multiple users in the same household to purchase tickets. Just remember that each Weverse ID (email address) will need a corresponding Ticketmaster account under the same email address. Try at your own risk: if you attempt this with numerous accounts or devices, it may be flagged as suspected bot activity.

How else can I increase my chances of getting tickets?

With a ticket limit of four (4), we recommend forming a group of ‘ticket buying buddies’ looking at the same shows as you. Chances are better that one of you will have a low enough queue number to get tickets. Be sure to discuss seating location and budget prior to buying tickets as a group.

What if I don’t get a ticket in presale?

DON’T PANIC! They usually release more tickets in the general sale, and of course there will be tickets available for resale. We have a dedicated section of our Discord server for AP529 community members who want to buy/sell tickets. You can find the invite for our Discord server on our links page.

I see tickets for sale on StubHub/Other Reseller. Should I buy those?

Tickets for BTS are not on sale until the presale dates listed above. If you see tickets listed on other sites, be aware that the seller does not currently have these tickets and might not be able to get them for you. The safest move is to buy direct from Ticketmaster/SeatGeek or a reseller like StubHub. We recommend only purchasing resale tickets with an “instant transfer” option, which means you will get your ticket right away. This is not the default setting, so look at the search filters and purchase terms carefully.

When will Ticketmaster Verified Resale be open?

At the time of writing, Ticketmaster has not enable verified resale through their app/website. We have not seen any confirmation from them about if/when this feature will be available.

How much will tickets cost?

Ticket prices for the Goyang dates have been published in this Weverse notice and ticket prices for the Tokyo dates have been published in this Weverse notice. As of the latest page update, ticketing information for some tour locations (Australia and portions of Latin America and Asia) has not been published in an official Weverse notice.

We have not seen any officially published ticket pricing for shows in North America or Europe. You should only rely on ticket pricing published on Weverse or through the official ticket retailer for each show (currently Ticketmaster or SeatGeek). For US shows especially, the potential range of prices is wide, and we do not want to speculate in a way that creates false expectations. Much has changed in the world of ticketing and with BTS’ popularity since their last group tour. [Update: Tickets for US shows were in the $200-900 range, plus taxes and fees, depending on venue and seat location.]

Will Ticketmaster use Official Platinum/Dynamic Pricing?

[Update: we are delighted to have been wrong in this guess!] We have not seen any official confirmation of this. However, in 2023, HYBE’s CFO stated on an external quarterly results call that they planned to use dynamic pricing for all future US concerts. Based on this information (and recent BTS member solo tours), our best guess is that they will utilize dynamic pricing. Here is the full quote:

“We currently do apply dynamic pricing to the US market for performances by SUGA and TXT. If any of our other artists do perform in the US, the same dynamic pricing will apply […] What about dynamic pricing in a non-US country? Well, we are considering our options, not just in terms of the pricing scheme but we’re also looking at what type of scheme best fits the characteristics of different markets. So, it doesn’t have to necessarily be dynamic pricing, but we’re looking into different means to boost concert and performance revenue overall.”

- HYBE CFO, May 2, 2023

Note: Despite our best efforts, it was difficult to provide a source link for this quote. Here is the official call recording, which is only available in Korean. You can hear clear mention of “dynamic pricing” in English several times. We have also seen the relevant portion translated and quoted in news articles that we chose not to link here because other content within the articles was inflammatory.

How can Ticketmaster charge variable pricing when my country prohibits that practice?

As always, local events are subject to local laws and customs. If your country does not allow variable ticket pricing, you should not expect it.

VIP TICKETS

What will VIP include?

Straight from the Ticketmaster FAQ, quoted here for convenience:

US, CANADA, MEXICO - SOUNDCHECK VIP PACKAGE

• One premium reserved ticket

• Access to the pre-show BTS soundcheck

• Exclusive VIP gift item

• VIP laminate and lanyard

• Pre-show tour merchandise shopping opportunity

• Early entry to the venue

• Designated check-in and on-site VIP event staff

UK ONLY - GENERAL ADMISSION (GA) SOUNDCHECK VIP PACKAGE

• One general admission standing ticket to the show*

• Access to the pre-show BTS soundcheck

• Exclusive VIP gift item

• VIP laminate and lanyard

• Pre-show tour merchandise shopping opportunity (where available)

• Early entry to the venue

• Designated check-in and on-site VIP event staff

*GA entry will be randomized. Unofficial number systems will not be honored.

UK ONLY - SOUNDCHECK VIP PACKAGE

• One premium reserved ticket

• Access to the pre-show BTS soundcheck

• Exclusive VIP gift item

• VIP laminate and lanyard

• Pre-show tour merchandise shopping opportunity

• Early entry to the venue

• Designated check-in and on-site VIP event staff

How much does VIP cost?

It’s impossible to say with the information we have today. Typically it’s more than a regular concert seat, however, with dynamic pricing, things can get a little wonky. During the 2025 BTS member solo tours, we saw a wide range of ticket prices, with people occasionally paying more for a regular seat than VIP depending on the concert stop, seat location, and when/where their ticket was purchased. [Update: VIP tickets were in the $700-900 range, plus taxes and fees, for US shows.]

Can I buy/transfer a VIP ticket from someone else?

Ticketmaster has a specific process for sharing VIP tickets with someone other than the original purchaser. The safest way to share is to enter the venue with the original purchaser. If that isn’t possible, follow the process outlined on the Ticketmaster BTS VIP page. We have heard stories of people transferring or sharing tickets using other processes, but since this is the only written policy we can find, we can only recommend strictly following the process at the link above. We also recommend calling the venue to confirm.

TRAVEL PLANS

Help, I can’t find a hotel!

Don’t panic! It’s common for people to book refundable hotel reservations as soon as tour dates are announced. After presale, people will have a better idea of which concerts they’re attending, and you should expect some of those refundable reservations to be cancelled. Keep checking hotel websites after the presale.

We have a space in our Discord for each tour stop so that you can attempt to connect with roommates, if you wish. We offer this space as a courtesy and do not take any responsibility for roommate arrangements. Please vet any potential roommates carefully. You can find the invite for our Discord server on our links page.

When should I book a flight?

It depends entirely on your risk tolerance and financial resources. If you think it's likely you'll be attending and have funds available, we recommend purchasing a refundable or “free changes” flight as soon as possible for best rates. A refundable flight is significantly more expensive, but comes with less risk. A “free changes” flight comes with a risk that you may be left with an airline credit should you not be able to obtain a concert ticket. Be sure to read any ‘fine print’ and pay careful attention to the dates by which you need to cancel or make changes.

If your plans are more tentative or you’re unable to purchase a flight at this time, don't panic! Most of the stops are cities with busy airports, and you will be able to find a ticket later. It may be at a less convenient time or require a layover, but typically you can find a way to get there.

CONCERT OUTFITS, MERCH, & FREEBIES

What kind of bag can I bring to my concert?

This is highly dependent on each venue’s policies. We recommend using a search engine to find “[Venue Name] bag policy” and reading the text on the official venue website carefully. Most venues allow a clear bag up to a certain size. However, venue policies vary widely and may change over time, so please do not rely on past experiences when making your plans.

Will AP529 have new merch related to this tour?

Yes, it is in progress! The first designs are now available in our shop under New Arrivals. If you’d like to be notified when more designs are available, scroll to the bottom of our shop page and sign up under the text “Subscribe to shop updates”.

Where can I buy an ARMY Bomb?

ARMY Bombs (aka BTS concert lightsticks) are currently sold out in the Weverse official shop. We have no idea when they may be restocked. If they are not restocked 6-8 weeks before your concert date, plan to buy your lightstick at the venue. They usually have ample stock, and also have AAA batteries for sale if you need them.

We do not recommend buying an ARMY Bomb online from resellers, including eBay and Amazon. There is a rumor that there may be a new lightstick debuting this year, or, the company is simply withholding stock to have plenty available at the venues.

[Update: We now have a full guide on the new BTS Official Light Stick Ver. 4 (aka “ARMY Bomb”).]

How can I include info about AP529 with my concert freebies?

Thanks so much for thinking of us! We have free printable PDFs available for anyone who would like to share info about AP529 and how to participate in our events and community. You can print these at home (or work 😉) and cut apart to include in your freebies or just keep in your bag in case you meet anyone looking for ARMY friends.

• AP529 Freebie Info Printable - 4 Per Page

• AP529 Freebie Info Printable - 8 Per Page

My question wasn’t listed here, where can I find the answer?

We encourage you to ask in our Discord server, where have multiple teams able to assist. You can find the Discord server invite on our links page. This is the quickest way to receive a response. Due to high volume, we cannot promise timely responses to blog comments or emails.

Disclaimer: This is a working document that we are updating to the best of our ability with verified/official information from Weverse, BigHit, Ticketmaster/Live Nation, and SeatGeek. Please bear with us!

I was scrolling through social media feeds earlier today and came across an edit with all of the BTS members in their last photos before entering the military, along with videos of their discharge ceremonies. Watching the compilation made me stop and think about this project, how far we’ve come, how long ARMY waited, the state of anticipation we are in now, and the thrilling events “Yet to Come”. 

When ARMY Project 529 first began, we were staring down a long stretch of waiting. One by one, the members of BTS stepped into military service and ARMY felt a mix of pride, sadness, uncertainty. We asked ourselves, “How are we going to get through this?”

Well, the first answer to that was: not alone. Because we here at AP529 never Bangtan alone.

The second answer: we counted.

We marked the time together with 100-day countdowns—not just to watch numbers fall, but to remind ourselves that waiting doesn’t have to be lonely. Each countdown became a shared experience—a place to gather, to remember, to celebrate, and to hold space for what BTS has meant to us individually and collectively.

And now… here we are. This time, we aren’t counting down to individual returns. We’re counting down to the group’s return. 

Introducing the AP529 “70 Days to Spring” Countdown

Starting now, AP529 is launching “70 Days to Spring”. We’re counting down to the release of BTS’ comeback album, and yes, the symbolism is intentional. 🌸

Spring is all about return—the light is returning after a long season of quietly sitting in a shady spot waiting to see a single ray of sunshine. Or seven.

For the next 70 days, we’ll be sharing a quote from one of you—an AP529 member—reflecting on a favorite BTS memory or moment.

Not rankings.

Not any “best of” lists.

Just real memories from the real people that we (AP529 Admin) love so much. YOU!

The moments that made YOU laugh.

The quotes that carried YOU through a hard season.

The concert night YOU will never forget.

The lyric that you returned to again and again when YOU needed it most.

The first time YOU realized, oh… this matters to me. They matter.

Why This Countdown Matters

This project may have started off as a way to just make it through enlistment, but it has become so much more. 

It’s been about staying connected. About remembering why we’re here. About honoring the journey of BTS and ARMY together. 

We are not doing this countdown to rush time forward. We want to look back with gratitude while we move ahead together.

Every moment we share is a reminder that BTS didn’t just create music—they created memories and connections that ripple across the globe in ways we can’t fully measure, but somehow understand completely. 

ARMY Project 529 exists because of that ripple.

We Count Together

If you’ve been with us since the first countdown, thank you.

If you joined somewhere in the middle, we’re so glad you found us.

If you’re newer and still figuring out where you fit—welcome! You belong here too.

For the next 70 days, let’s remember together.

Let’s celebrate together.

Let’s step into this next season with the same hearts that carried us through the last one.

Spring is coming. Bangtan is coming. And I can’t think of a better way to count down than by doing it together. We’re almost there!!!

When ARMY Project 529 began, our goal was simple: Don’t Bangtan alone.

What we didn’t fully realize was how quickly that intention would turn into something bigger. To something deeply human, deeply emotional, and home for so many people.

Over the last few years, AP529 has become a place where:

• Baby ARMY found their footing and learned all about the history of BTS and ARMY

• Longtime ARMY finally found their people

• Strangers became roommates, travel buddies, seatmates at concerts, chosen family, etc.

• Joy and grief were both welcomed without explanation

• This year, we watched content together. We screamed together. We cried together.

We not only waited out the enlistment days and cursed black-hat cameramen, we also celebrated personal milestones, shared hospital updates, held space for each other when life was heavy, and rejoiced in each others’ successes.

When the world felt overwhelming, we logged into Discord… and felt okay again. And when the members FINALLY returned, we celebrated! Boy, did we celebrate!

What We Built Together

In the past year alone, AP529 has been:

• Weekly watch parties that turned BTS content into connection.

• Livestreams across time zones, including European mornings and U.S. nights.

• “Screaming” Lounges for concerts, lives, Festa, and discharges.

• Holiday card exchanges that turned names into real addresses and real care.

• Book Club discussions that deepened our understanding of the members and each other.

• Magic Shop hangouts that were therapy in a streaming lounge.

• KDrama watch parties that helped us escape the real world and swoon over clichéd rom-coms.

• In-person meetups in Kansas City, Chicago, London, Amsterdam, LA, Dallas, NYC, and beyond.

• A safe space for older ARMY, shy ARMY, healing ARMY, loud ARMY, feral ARMY, and any ARMY looking for community.

• It’s where someone joined “just to lurk”… and ended up finding their tribe.

• Where many of us went to our first concert not alone.

• Where our banners made it onto concert screens—and our hotel rooms exploded with screams.

• Where a single TikTok about chickens turned into a global community. And yes, where pizza once got delivered to the wrong hotel a month later and somehow became legendary.

What You Told Us

• “I was trying to resist BTS… but then I found reasonable adults who just wanted to make fandom better.”

• “I have never felt so at home with a group of strangers before.”

• “This community carried me through cancer.”

• “I came alone, nervous, and walked into a hotel lobby full of family.”

• “For the first time, I didn’t have to Bangtan alone.”

• “KC solidified it—this is my tribe.”

• “I can come in any mood and know I’ll be accepted arms wide open.”

• “This project gave me my purpose back.”

• “It’s made my journey into ARMY that much more enjoyable.”

• “I feel connected. I feel confident. I feel home.”

Every quote, every story, every laugh-until-you-can’t-breathe moment… that’s the project.

Not a platform. Not a schedule. Not an algorithm. Not a cult… although, there have been accusations… 😉 Just a community who wants everyone, no matter who they are or where they come from, to feel safe and welcomed to love and celebrate BTS.

Looking Ahead to 2026

If the last two years were about surviving the wait… 2026 is about living the comeback together.

A new album. A tour. New memories waiting to be made. More “screaming” lounges. More hotel rooms full of laughter. More banners, watch parties, trips, tears, joy, and “remember when…” moments.

We’re not going anywhere. And neither are you. Thank you for showing up. For trusting this space. For loving Bangtan loudly and honestly. For choosing community over isolation.

Here’s to everything we’ve built. And to everything still ahead!

Now, bring on 2026 and a monumental BTS comeback!

Vision.

We’re still deep in FESTA. At the time of this blog’s publication, six of the seven members of BTS have come home and we are celebrating the group’s 12th Debut Anniversary with them. To say it’s mind-boggling is an understatement.

We made it to 529 days.

That’s wild. The original 529 days of content we promised at the beginning are coming to an “official” close. A community member asked, “So are you going to change the project’s name now?” To which we laughed. “No! Too much work.” Which is true. We’ve built a brand around the name ARMY Project 529, one that we’re immensely proud of.

But that’s not the whole reason why we don’t plan to change our name. The 529 days had a very specific meaning originally—it was a goal, a milestone. But just because we’ve reached that goalpost, it doesn’t mean we can’t move it further down the field and go for it again. (Um, I’m terrible with sportsball metaphors, but I think that works on some level, right?) The “529” can represent something new. Maybe it’s a new time frame, or maybe it’s a number of livestreams, or maybe it’s just arbitrary and doesn’t have to mean anything at all, because the spirit of what we’ve created is bigger than any number or any name we could give ourselves.

Last week we reflected on ARMY Project 529 from its start until now. We talked about lessons learned and what it all has meant to us. Feelings are hard, yo. So hard that we decided to do it again this week… TA DA! (jazz hands)

But this time we’re looking forward. We suspected fairly early on in the project that we would want to continue on past FESTA 2025 and the members of BTS returning from the military, but that was cemented for sure after we had our first “Ma City” Meetup in Kansas City last fall (Sept. 2024).

The joy we got to share in that weekend with a hundred or so people who came out to love on BTS with us and each other showed us that there is truly a need for the kind of community AP529 had become. And it was even further cemented when we saw how eager our 529liners were to connect with each other during movies and concerts too. After that, we felt a renewed drive and a responsibility to continue maintaining and growing a space where ARMYs who had been in search of of kindred spirits never had to Bangtan alone ever again.

So this week we are looking to the future. What do we want to do, where do we want to take the project next? How do we feel about all of it? We’ve gathered some more questions based on BTS songs, but this time they’re aimed at making us think ahead. While we’re not going into specifics yet, we wanted to share with you all how ARMY Project 529 plans to begin its own Chapter Two… and that’s TOGETHER.

Skip to Content: 00:00 (Zero O’Clock) | Tomorrow | Best of Me | Yet to Come | No More Dream

00:00 (Zero O'Clock):

What "new song" is our project ready to write? What fresh narratives and impacts can we create?

Stefne: Continuing to grow the community and making sure that ARMYs feel seen, accepted and a part of something, will always be my focus. In a way, I’m sort of the Pied Piper. I want to go out and find people who need other ARMY like them, and bring them into the fold so they feel less alone and can enjoy the fandom to the fullest.

Patricia: Quince and Doc did a fantastic job in putting together the ENTIRE history of BTS in blog form. But the BTS universe is unending. There are so many rabbit holes to fall into and explore. Some ARMYs like myself love all those corners of Bangtan lore and I would love to explore them further. I also want to support as much as possible the welcoming vibe and the “stick to the facts” narrative we have built around our project. As long as you love our 7, we will always welcome ARMYs with open arms, regardless of where they come from, who they are, or how long they have been in the fandom. We put a lot of love and intention into this project and I believe we will keep this philosophy alive. We will also be loyal to facts, and avoid the rumor mill in order to guide and support ARMYs in their journey with BTS. Navigating the insane amount of information out there is hard and we’ll be here ready to hold ARMYs’ hands.

Christina: Well as it just so happens—Stefne came up with this idea knowing that the project would “end” right as BTS returns to give us all new content! So there’s a built-in newness we get to witness that will inspire us. So whatever direction they go, we will be ready to support & dream with them while still maintaining our special 529 brand.

Quince: Oh man… do I have ideas. Ideas upon ideas upon ideas. Now I just need to find the time… (looks under the bed for any that might be hiding there) Honestly, I don’t think we need to write a NEW song, really. We’ve always been about “content and community” and I think that our new song should just be a remix (if you will) of that old chestnut. BTS has so much out there, and I barely got to scratch the surface while writing the blog these past 529 days. And if there’s anything I learned from BTS’ Chapter Two, it’s that there’s always going to be MORE coming! I know that we’re all interested in doing more deep dives into the details of the content, and having more amazing conversations with all of you about it. What form that will take… we’re still working that out, but we aren’t ever going to shut up about how much we love Bangtan Sonyeondan. And we’ll continue to build this community so that none of you ever have to shut up about it either, lol!

Doc: I believe that we will continue doing what we have been doing for the last 18-months… fostering a safe community in which we host fun gatherings to scream about Bangtan TOGETHER,  help people find fellow ARMY near them, and continue to chronicle the history of BTS—but now in real time. Our blog will continue on a rolling basis, as new content is released and reaches the end of its promotion period. At the time of this blog being released, we already know that we have a future that involves three singles and the HOPE ON THE STAGE tour for j-hope, Jin’s album ECHO and his #RUNSEOKJIN_EP.TOUR tour, FESTA 2025 and BTS’ 12th Anniversary, along with the return of the remaining members from their military service. There is NO WAY that this will be the end of our journey together, both as ARMY with BTS, and as AP529 with the529line. I believe in US!!!!

Katie: As a Project, I don’t know yet. I think what’s coming in the immediate future is more of a reprise than a new song. We planned far ahead not realizing BTS would keep us BUSY until they came back, so part of me wants to see what’s coming from OT7. If only BigHit would share the calendar with us!

For myself, I’m always determining the success of a day by how much I get done. I’d like to chase dopamine a little more, even when it doesn’t have tangible results. This is and will be a lifelong challenge for me, but I think BTS can give me a lot of inspiration here. They always make time for fun and learning new skills!

Jump to Comments

TOMORROW:

What potential challenges do we anticipate in this next chapter, and how can we prepare to face them with the same resilience BTS champions?

Stefne: With growth comes additional financial and time responsibilities. As a team, we initially covered the project's needs, then we moved on to asking for some help from our followers. I’m not sure how to scale that if there is growth (just me being honest and sort of thinking out loud)… but we’ll figure it out.

Patricia: Keeping up with the guys and not getting overwhelmed with the tsunami of content that is going to come our way? That’s probably going to be a big challenge. When they were out in the military, they still managed to have us drowned in content. At some points it was HARD to keep up. There is also all the online “noise” which is only going to get louder once they’re all back. But I do trust the strength we built over these months is going to be key in keeping us afloat. As Namjoon said—ARMYs and BTS always find a way, and I am sure we will find our own path—if possible, with some flowers thrown in.

Christina: We will see some new challenges, I’m sure of it. Preparing for them (in my opinion) will involve remembering how we solved past issues, dissecting and pulling out the best practices, and then making sure we follow through. This sounds so corporate when I read it back. This is kind of a job application answer, wow! WHY SO SERIOUS?

Quince: Time has and likely will always be our biggest challenge. Real world responsibilites (and Weverse’s shipping costs) keep us all tied to jobs, but if we could get paid for doing this Bangtan shit full-time for y’all, you can bet we would. Other than that, I’m sure we’ll face more instances of negativity and hate in the future—toward BTS and toward ourselves. Kim Namjoon’s internet is both a wonderful and terrible place. But as long as we remain true to our core values and intentions for the project, we’ll weather anything that comes our way.

Doc: The biggest challenge I foresee in our future is that our dreams will outweigh our budget and our free-time! We are six women who love Bangtan to our very depths. We are also six women who have dedicated over 95% of our free-time to this project for the last 18-months. We have literally given our blood, sweat, and tears (plus our wallets) to this community and these seven men. I think that we will face these potential challenges the way we have faced every obstacle presented to us since we started the project—we will launch and then adjust. We will tell the529line the goal, and they will help us achieve the impossible together. Because in this space we never Bangtan alone, and that includes making the impossible possible.

Katie: BTS will be under pressure from different directions, and it will be ARMY’s challenge to support them with enthusiasm. We must avoid giving oxygen to baseless negativity from inside or outside the fandom. Bangtan will also attract many new fans—which is a good thing! As a Project we’ll need to welcome baby ARMY, offering resources on BTS history, credible sources of information, and how to be a respectful fan. It’s a marathon—it can be tiring to have the same discussions over and over again, and we don’t want to sound jaded—we ARE actually having fun!

I don’t have any magical solutions for persevering. I’m a generally determined person (Quince once described me as “like a terrier with a bone”), so between that, good music, and great friends, I can get through most things. Maybe some occasional primal screaming.

Jump to Comments

BEST OF ME:

How can the project itself become a larger, more impactful "sea" that amplifies the individual "waves" of contribution from our team and community?

Stefne: That’s my question as well. Lol 

I’ve never been a planner. I have an idea, I try it, and then move on to the next if it doesn’t work. And if the concept works, I simply follow where the energy leads me. All that to say though, I didn’t have a team around me before, so decision making and implementation was different, and plans weren’t necessary. With AP529, growth means we can’t just follow the wind—we have to plan accordingly and adjust the sails a bit as we go. That is FAR outside the box for me. I suppose I have a bit of ADHD in that way.

Patricia: Growing a dream requires a mix of intention and luck. Even so, there’s always a certain level of unpredictability. I think we tried at some point to be more structured but we sometimes didn’t have the time or the resources to follow through. I think that by remaining authentic and sticking to the principles on which we founded the project, we are on solid ground to move forward. And there’s been a certain beauty in the sudden moments when, without knowing quite why, we had some growth spurts. I truly believe that by continuing to “do ourselves” we will grow. We are so proud of this community and how a lot of you have become our AP529 messengers, welcoming and bringing others into our little corner of the world. We also appreciate how you keep our spaces friendly—a place where BTS info can be trusted. Those are the little flames we try to fan, and that’s the source of our strength and our impact.

Christina: Damn it I read Patricia’s answer accidentally before I typed mine and hers is really good. *ahem* Ok, so “larger and more impactful” could mean reaching more ARMY that would benefit from our community. As we spend more time together, we fall more in sync with our certain “brand” of ARMY–ARMY who always respect and trust BTS, who help & support each other whenever possible, and search for avenues to connect with others who feel lost or left behind. In that way, we grow “the right way”, as Patricia mentioned. Authentically and intentionally.

Quince: When we first began venturing out onto social media as AP529 and mingling in ARMY spaces, we heard a lot of “It’s exhausting dealing with and answering questions from new ARMYs” from many different corners. And we also personally saw the results of that attitude put into practice in negative ways. Fairly quickly we realized that we didn’t want our space, or the community we hoped to build, to foster that kind of environment. And so as we began to grow, we noticed that, quite by accident, we seemed to be attracting a lot of new ARMY in need of a place of understanding, friendship, safety, and education. We realized there was a need, so we leaned into it, welcoming them in and creating resources to answer their questions. Is it exhausting? Sometimes. But it’s also worth it. BTS opens the Magic Shop door for anyone who needs them, so we do the same. And we’re always going to encourage those who walk through to reach their hands out and bring more people with them.

Doc: I think that the real way we will become more “impactful” is by not actually trying to be impactful. In a world of fake personas, our authenticity to both ourselves and to Bangtan will hold the greatest impact. We started this project believing that if only a handful of people joined our journey we would have fun and create a tiny little micro-community along the way. In no dream ever dreamt did we believe that literally thousands of ARMY would join us. We never imagined that little groups of ARMY-besties would spring up across the entire globe to find connection and friendship nearby. I believe that continuing to stay true to our initial dreams of creating a safe space of connection and community will remain our biggest possible impact—regardless of how much we grow in the future.

Katie:  I think it’s already happening. We get comments on social media from ARMY who have met members of the AP529 community and they’re so impressed with your joyful and inclusive vibe. Bringing that energy to ARMY events and spaces is how we make the fandom even better than it already is. You guys are the best ambassadors AP529 (and BTS) could ask for!

Jump to Comments

YET TO COME:

As we reflect on our accomplishments, how does that affect our future? What does "the best" for this project truly look like in the chapters to come?

Stefne: That’s a great question. I think I’d love to find a way to take the community and build it in real life as well as the online community we have. So, creating pockets of AP529 groups around the world that get together regularly. We’ve done this a bit already with concerts and theater releases, but I think it would be fun to have something consistent… and I have ideas.

Patricia: We have done so much in 529 days! We have learned, grown, and figured out a lot of stuff about ourselves! We also figured out how to keep up with the onslaught of content BTS released while they were gone, even though we previously thought we were going to be playing in a barren field during that time. And every time we came across a hurdle or a moment when we thought we might break, we always found a way through it. In fact, those were the growing pains that made us get even better. Having the guys back will probably change things a bit and thankfully we will see MORE of them, but every single thing we have learned in this year and a half will help us bring the best of ourselves—individually and as a team—to our future.

Christina: With a team, you have to play around and experience challenges to find out how you work best. We have been lucky to experience all sorts of things! For our future, we need to continue to push forward with our strengths and ask for help when we need it. But most importantly, we will listen to what our community wants and make sure we are growing in tandem.

Quince: I think our “best” lies in continuing to trust our gut feelings, and in always communicating effectively with each other. We don’t always agree on the details, but we DO always agree on our intentions. And we shape everything we do around them, which I think is what people recognize and appreciate about our community when they become a part of it. We try to do right by BTS, and by each other, and at the end of the day that’s what it is all about. As BTS continues to grow, so will we. They’ve promised their best is yet to come, and we always follow their example, so that means our best is on the way as well…

Doc: This project has truly been trial-by-fire from the beginning. Weverse magazine once ironically called the time of BTS’ enlistment one of “relative silence”, and that’s what we truly expected to experience while they were gone. Instead, we received an avalanche of content from one member after another. This turned our time of “relative silence” (during which we promised to journey through old content), into a time in which we had to juggle both the old AND the new. So many times we felt overwhelmed, and like a circus act walking a tightrope while juggling the project vs. new content. But in every situation, we managed to pull through. As Stefne has said a few times, we became pros at figuring out how to “launch and adjust”. I feel like we developed this skill over the last year, and it will bring us a future not-yet seen, but better than we could ever imagine. As we face the unknown at the end of the original 529 days, I am extremely excited to see the best that is yet to come for our community.

Katie:  I think our greatest accomplishment was building a community where people felt safe, supported, loved, and excited to be themselves. Yes, we got more followers and wrote an amazing history of BTS and lots of other things, but ultimately the people are at the heart of it. So, for me, our best looks like maintaining the spirit of this community in everything we do. Hopefully we’ll find more like-minded ARMY along the way.

Jump to Comments

NO MORE DREAM:

If we had no limits or fears, what would we dream of building next with this project?

Stefne: Although doing the KC Meetups are single-handedly the most stressful things I’ve ever done due to the required up-front financial risk, I’d want to do more of them all over the country/world, especially during the reunion concerts.

Most of the Admin Team are great in Discord. I don’t do as well with “chatting” online—I’m more of a video or in-person type. Finding ways to connect, in addition to our online space, is my dream.

Patricia: “If you want to make God laugh, make a plan”. To be honest, as a born improviser, planning is not my strength, and dreams for me are a bit more like whatever random, crazy idea I thought of in the last five seconds which might only be valid for the next week or two. But I do hope we can continue to support this ARMY community and help people find ARMY friends. It warms my heart to see local groups sprout up all around—how ARMY finds each other and how they Bangtan together. I hope in this next chapter, as BTS reunites, we find opportunities to also do things together—both in person or online. And with all the content that’s going to drop and a possible incoming tour… we’ll have plenty to do, I am sure.

Christina: I think about how much fun it is to see everyone in person, and how awesome it is to hang with ARMY friends. If I could create a business model around the Admin team traveling to cities all over the globe and chatting with ARMY I would do it in a heartbeat! The BTS tour is definitely in the center of my mind, though–I would love to keep that as the dream focus for our next steps.

Quince: The biggest and wildest dream which we’ve uttered (with a laugh) on different occasions would be having the resources to travel around and meet with different ARMYs in our community around the globe. We’ve seen how much of a demand there is out there for everyone, no matter their age, their gender, ethnicity, or nationality, to feel seen and understood in their love for BTS. And we regret that we can’t meet everyone who has reached out and joined us face to face. Hopefully one day! In the meantime, I just dream about having the time to build the project into a “one-stop shop” for all ARMYs looking to understand BTS and the fandom surrounding them on a deeper level, and then make friends to enjoy all of it with!

Doc: This is both a challenging and exciting question, and the short answer is: I don’t honestly care what the future looks like, as long as we stay together. Cheesy, I know, and maybe a little sappy, but what can I say? Talking about AP529 makes me a little sappy.This not-so-little community that we built together has been one of my greatest joys, and also one of my biggest challenges. The annual Ma City Meetups have been one of my favorite things, followed closely by the mini-gathering at j-hope’s concert in Chicago. A true dream would be to gather with the AP529line in multiple cities across the world, whether during BTS concerts, or just because we manage to make something work. I just cannot see a future without my fellow Admins, the Moderators, our Volunteers, and our community members, and want us to stay together forever.

Katie: When we started this project, we committed to 529 days of blogs, live broadcasts, and more. Making sure all of those things happened sometimes came at the cost of other great ideas. What I’m dreaming about is the freedom to explore more types of content, even if something turns out to be a dud. We also want to make our existing content, especially the blog and recorded live broadcasts, more accessible to people who joined AP529 later on. I wouldn’t say this was “our ‘real’ dream”, though. We definitely accomplished what we set out to do (and more!), so this is just an expansion of the original dream.

Bangtan Bubble: What do you want to see most from AP529 in the future?

Let us know your answer in the comments below or on social media (include #BangtanBubble)!

Jump to Comments

SIDE QUEST SQUIRREL:

SO WHAT: How can we maintain the project's initial spark and "wild" creativity as it matures and evolves?

Stefne: We are so much like BTS before Chapter Two. I think we’ve given 529 days to work on a group project for the blog and newsletter, as well as the weekly live sessions. Each person on the team has their own personality, point of view, and interests, and I think this second chapter will be an opportunity to explore those more in combination with group activities. 

I’ve learned so much from BTS’ time together and apart. And, like them, I think you come to a place of realizing that you can have both a voice as a group and an individual voice, and be successful with both.

Doc: We dedicated our hearts, souls, minds, and free time to create this community where you never have to Bangtan alone over the last 18 months—in a world where all the naysayers tried to convince us that our seven men would “never get back together”. We stayed true to BTS due to our belief in them, in their words, and in ourselves as ARMY and AP529. I believe that that faith, tenacity, and grit of determination is the true underlying “spark” behind the success of this project so far. I also believe that we remain the same six women in our willingness to work hard to achieve our goals. Once we latch on to a concept and dream moving forward, we WILL NOT quit until we achieve that goal, as we have done for the last 18 months. We love BTS, and we love this community. We will not go anywhere anytime soon. That love and determination is the real spark that we will carry with us into the unknown future of AP529.

LIFE GOES ON: How can our project embody this message of hope and forward momentum, inspiring our audience to also persevere through their own challenges?

Patricia: Life is only interesting because it changes. And with change comes opportunities to grow and adapt. We could approach this new chapter in fear—as the initial goal that brought us together is about to end. We’ll need to adapt to a new reality. But I guess we are so full of joy with our seven’s return…. that the only way is UP! If there’s one thing I love about what we’ve built, it’s our spirit. Regardless of what is happening around us, that spirit is the common thread that has guided us and kept the project alive. We base it completely on the constant question of “what would Bangtan do?”, and this is something that I hope we will keep alive far into the future. I have seen glimpses of that spirit in our community too, so I trust it will keep inspiring us and moving us forward.

Quince: Authenticity is so important to us. When you see the six of us Admin during our livestreams or in any of our watch parties, you’re getting who we truly are as people. There’s no gloss or polish (there might be a TikTok filter though). While we don’t share every single bit of our lives with everyone, what we do share is always real and heartfelt. And that’s what we encourage from our community as well. BTS, and Namjoon in particular, has taught me that there is no shame in showing the process of life, even if it’s messy. Sometimes the mess, the hardships… sometimes those are the most beautiful moments. When we share them, when we tell others “It’s okay to struggle and be open about it”, that creates hope and motivation for the future.

OUTRO: WINGS: What lessons have we learned about trusting in our gut and how will we apply that to the next chapter of AP529?

Christina: Well, to put it bluntly, we learned not to rely on outside influences that didn’t “feel” right. How did we know when something/someone didn’t feel right? We would get together and hash it over until we came to a consensus. And I would say 99% of the time, these six women from very different backgrounds and lives would somehow arrive at the same conclusion together, which is pretty amazing. So we have a good system in place to trust each other. For the next chapter, we need to keep that same energy. I don’t personally care about being right—I care that we do the right thing by the project AND that my team members all feel they have been individually heard before a decision is made. The “rule” is if even one of us feels strongly against a course of action, we talk until we figure it out.

Katie: If you’ve been around long enough, you’ve heard us talk about the concept of “our chicken”. As in, let’s focus on making our ‘brand’ of chicken and finding people who like it. When we started out, we researched social media marketing and content creation. There were lots of recommendations on how to get views or followers, but many didn’t align with our goals. In our gut, they didn’t feel like “our chicken”, and we didn’t believe they’d help us find our people. So, we made our own path, gathering new friends one by one. It was absolutely the right choice. Our team meetings have been filled with discussions about “our chicken”, and I think continuing to ask that question as we move into the next chapter will keep us on the best path.

Final Thoughts

You know what they say about the best laid plans…

We’ve done a lot of waxing poetic about the future of the project and our community here, and we have lots of ideas we’d love to see to fruition, but the truth is that there are no grand plans set in stone for us thus far. We are at our best (much to the chagrin of Katie’s spreadsheets) when we roll into something with nothing but enthusiasm, a half-baked idea, and a whole lot of humor.

Just as BTS isn’t quite certain exactly what the future holds for them right now as they all are returning from the military, we here at AP529 aren’t certain either. What BTS has done though is remind us that no matter what it is they do, they’ll work hard for ARMY, and they’ll do it together.

And, as I said in the Intro, that’s exactly what we plan to do as well.

Now, let’s return to FESTA! We’re so close to having Yoongi back and BTS whole once more. Come back next week and we’ll talk about all the exciting and emotional details from this year’s celebration of not only BTS’ Debut anniversary, but also of their reunion!

CREDITS:

ARMY Project 529 Volunteers

Research Team: Angel (TikTok: Lilangel2828), Leslie Day (TikTok: Leslie Day), Merry (TikTok: merryj67), Sam T (TikTok: samt_26), Shelley (TikTok: shels167), Trudy (TikTok: theeducationmommy), Viv (TikTok: VivEliz); Video Team: Leslie Day (TikTok: Leslie Day), Namz (TikTok: Namz07)

Join us LIVE every Sunday evening at 8pm ET for #the529live, a wrap up of each week's “Monday Muster”, thoughtful discussions, and tons of laughter! And catch us on TikTok each Wednesday night at 9pm ET for #the529tea, when we talk Bangtan news and dish about any TEA that might be happening on Kim Namjoon’s internet. 

Sunday’s LIVE is hosted on ARMY Project 529’s YouTube channel: @ARMYProject529 while Wednesday’s LIVE is on our project TikTok:  @ARMYProject529.

Trust.

It’s June 2025… HAPPY FESTA!

This time next week we’ll be welcoming back four more members of BTS from their military service. We’ll be about to celebrate the group’s 12th Debut Anniversary with them, AND we’ll be gearing up for j-hope’s final concerts in Seoul and the release of his single, “Killin’ It Girl”. It feels like a whirlwind, right?

But hey. Look at us. We’ve almost made it to 529 days.

Who would’ve thought?

We did. We all did. Not every second of every day, but enough that we kept going to see Chapter One of ARMY Project 529 all the way to its FESTA finish line. But at the end of 2023, that goal seemed a million years away.

When Stefne, just kind of talking out loud to herself on TikTok, asked, “What if we just make a sort of book club to have while they’re gone?” she had no clue what it was she was setting into motion with those words. And truth be told, neither did any of the rest of us when we each raised our hands and said, “I can help.” And somehow, we found ourselves trying to create and launch a big fan project in less than a month… during the holiday season. For those first few weeks it was nothing but a whirlwind of chaotic ideas and tasked out solutions through Discord chats and many, MANY Zoom meetings.

We were stressed, exhausted, and often confused, but SO excited. Though we were mainly going off of instinct and pure nerve, we could tell that what we were trying to build could have the potential to make a major impact… if only we could make it to launch day and get it off the ground.

Somehow, we did. At 12:05 AM on January 1st, 2024, ARMY Project 529 launched with the release of our first blog and newsletter. The Admins gathered in our Discord chat, virtually hugging each other as we watched the reactions happening out in the server and on social media. Later that day, Stefne went LIVE on TikTok (the rest of us were too new to the platform and couldn’t join her yet) to talk about the project and BAM! More people signed up, word began to spread, and more people began following us.

Though we had quite a few painful hiccups in the first month after we launched, slowly—week by week, our community began to grow. With each blog, each livestream, each video, each new member in our server… ARMY Project 529 became more than just “a sort of book club”. We became a place where people who love BTS can come to feel seen, valued, and safe.

We’ve laughed, we’ve cried, and we’ve talked for hours and hours about “seven normal boys from Korea”. We’ve got inside jokes now, catch phrases, and most importantly—a desire to see all ARMY feel like they belong. Over the last 500 and some odd days, we didn’t just run a fan project about some band we like. We built a family based on the love, respect, and understanding we’ve always received from BTS themselves.

This week, join the six members of the Admin Team as we answer some questions picked by members of the AP529line and reflect on what this project and community have meant to us over the past year and a half. Grab a drink and some tissues, and hope that we “Don’t Make it Weird.”

Skip to Content: Not Today | Run | Magic Shop | Euphoria | We are Bulletproof: The Eternal

NOT TODAY

What were the major obstacles or challenges faced that we initially felt we couldn’t overcome?

How did we eventually tackle them, or are they still ongoing?

Stefne: My self-doubt, insecurities, and fear. When the project was new and we didn’t know what we were doing, it was more carefree. However, as more people joined and we took on additional tasks, I realized that we were carrying a certain level of responsibility, and I feared letting people down. 

Taking financial risks and having to trust that the community would support us and the bills would be paid.

The not-so-fun side of social media.

Patricia: Although we have been through moments that some might label difficult, I think the biggest obstacle for me was initially trusting all these strangers that were suddenly part of my life, particularly the Admin team. I was willing, but it felt a bit weird and I also noticed reticence from the others. People tend to bond quickly during intense circumstances, so I guess that helped us; as did the feeling that we all had the best of intentions. Luckily, we were right, and WE ALL did. Time has also been our friend to overcome challenges. When you first come across a problem, it can be overwhelming and you can react very emotionally because maybe you don’t understand why this is happening to you. But as months have gone by, I think we have built a set of skills that has definitely helped us cope better. And we do know we have each other's backs, always… it always comes back to trust and how those strangers have become sisters and friends.

Christina: I think we started off feeling small, in a way? Like we weren't going to be good enough, or smart enough, or whatever enough to stand on our own. However, as the project grew our confidence did too. It worked out just fine. What the hell were we so worried about? Sheesh!

Quince: Initially our biggest challenge was ourselves. We worried we would fumble everything… that we weren’t built to withstand everything that comes with building a big fan project and putting yourself out there on social media. But I think the opposition and backlash we faced as soon as we launched ended up being a sort of crucible for us. It was a trial-by-fire that forced us to rise to the challenge and I think it helped us solidify why we wanted to start AP529 in the first place. There was a need for a space within the ARMY fandom for people to come together and feel seen, understood, and safe to be themselves while loving BTS!

Doc: Online hate. We started this project as six unsuspecting women who loved BTS and wanted to make a fun and safe space where other people who loved BTS could come together to squeal and squee, and talk about this band we mutually loved. We were ill-prepared for the hateful side of trying to do something healthy, happy, and fun on the internet. The biggest thing we learned was how to ignore the negative keyboard warriors who hold ill-intent, and redirect the emotions from unsolicited, baseless attacks into humor. At the end of the day, haters will exist in all corners of both the world, and the internet. We will never be capable of making everyone happy, making everyone like us, or even making everyone who doesn’t like us just go away and ignore us. There is a desperate need by some to exercise their right to an “opinion” no matter how hateful, damaging, or wrong they may be, and that is a behavior that is impossible to stop. The only thing we can stop, change, or control is how we react and respond to that negative behavior. When you take authority over something out of your control, and make it your own in the form of controlling how you respond, and how it makes you feel, it is invigorating, freeing, and empowering.

Katie: Time. Finding time is still a challenge, especially when my availability doesn’t align with other schedules. I am often finding snippets of time during the day or working late into the evening. With a newborn, my schedule is much less predictable and I’m adapting to week-by-week changes in routine. It’s frustrating when we have more ideas than we have time to execute, but we do our best to prioritize what can be done and track what we can’t in case we can do it later. (On many spreadsheets.)

Working as a team. I’ll be honest, I was always the person who loathed group projects and did most of the work myself. (I know, I know. Please contain your surprise.) Learning to work with others in an environment where I don’t have to be a professional so much as a friend has been a growth experience for me!

Real life shit. Over the past 18 months, the Admins and other Project leaders have experienced just about every major life event one can imagine. Job losses. Births. Deaths. Major illnesses. Two organs and a baby removed surgically! Sometimes we felt broken. Sometimes we had to pause for a bit. I’m beyond grateful people stepped in when others needed a break.

Haters. We were truly shocked at people bringing hate to our doorstep. People we knew taking things out of context or interpreting our words with the worst possible intent—even making recordings and screenshots to share. Complete strangers were publicly mocking us. The first time it happened, we cried and re-considered if we should really be doing this. Now we get frustrated, but we move on pretty quickly. “Cypher 4” helps!

Jump to Comments

RUN

What passion or drive made us ‘Run, run, run again’—inspiring us to keep moving forward despite obstacles?

Stefne: It was Namjoon, Jin, Yoongi, Hobi, Jimin, Taehyung and Jung Kook. It was the Admin Team, the mods, the horde of volunteers, and the community we all built. Maybe, at first, we ran for distraction, or to feel less alone. We didn’t even know what the project would look like. How could we? But we just followed where the current took us, and with each day, I realized more and more what this community meant to everyone. The community we’ve built made it all worth it.

Patricia: When people say BTS is a movement, I tend to agree. They stand for so many things I find true and just. They are a beautiful example of how to be human. BTS first pulled me in intellectually—the depth of what they are putting out in the world is fascinating, captivating, and so necessary. And as someone that has struggled and worked hard to succeed, I also feel a kinship with the members that is hard to explain. That is probably part of the inspiration and the drive to keep on keeping on, and to even contribute a smidge to put that message out in the world—even if it sounds a bit brazen to say so. Also, the Admin, the moderators, the volunteers. Because when I got into this project, even if I didn’t know them, I was making a promise to support them in any way I could. Their enthusiasm, their drive, their passion, their love—all are certainly a big part of what keeps us afloat and it pushes me forward to try and do as much as I can and keep running.

Christina: Hmmm. I think what makes this Admin team, Mods, volunteers, and 529ers run through difficulties is our mutual love of the 7, our refusal to accept defeat in any aspect, and our audacity. It is with stubbornness and unmitigated GALL that we do what we do. I wouldn't bet against us.

Quince: There are a few things that have driven us without fail. At the start, it was the question, “What would Bangtan do?” Much like BTS did after they debuted, AP529 faced a lot of opposition and hate after we launched (on a much much smaller scale of course). At all times, no matter how tired or hurt we were, we reminded ourselves that BTS dealt with opposition by NEVER stopping. They didn’t wallow in the mud, they kept running, and they invited us to run with them. So that’s what the Admin team and this community do too.

Doc: For me the passion and drive was originally because we made a public promise. We set a goal, we made that goal public, and I would be darned if I was not going to fulfill that promise. I had made the determination before the project began, that even if only a few of us continued on this journey for the duration of the 529 days initially planned, I would see it through to the end. Once we got going, and more and more people joined our chaotic little journey, it felt more like a deep desire to keep going so that I wouldn’t let anyone down. But then it morphed into a passion to keep going for nothing more than a love of the community we were building. For inspiration, it always went back to BTS. When the road became difficult, or challenges arose, the number one question we asked ourselves was, “What would Bangtan do?” Over the course of the first phase of this project, my passion and drive shifted—I switched from wanting to do this for myself and the other Admins to fulfill our promise—to wanting to do this for all of the beautiful souls who chose to join our community. While the inspiration and motivation remained, as always, seven normal boys from Korea.

Katie: Truthfully? Dogged determination, sometimes to the point of pettiness! If anyone told us that we couldn’t do something or we were too old as people or too new as a project or too new as ARMY, it just made us want to make it happen even more. We’d make some jokes, put on “UGH!” or a Cypher, and get to work.

I drew a lot of inspiration and motivation from the Admin team, Mods, and community members. If I felt tired, I thought of the people counting on us, the people who’d told us that something we created was a bright spot in their week. And from the pictures people shared in our Discord server of meeting their new friends in person. I was also hugely inspired by BTS themselves—I’m astounded by how many life lessons I’ve been able to put to words thanks to their music and content.

Jump to Comments

MAGIC SHOP:

What specific skills, resources, or ‘magic’ did we discover or utilize that helped us overcome challenges?

Where did we find our comfort and strength?

Stefne: The women of the Admin team each have a skillset that the project needed, and when given the freedom to do their “thing,” they each do it well. The same happened with our volunteers and our teams. If we had a need, we put out a call, and people answered. That’s what community does.

With every challenge, we’d hash it out, figure out a solution, and do what had to be done. And we always kept the community first and foremost in our decision-making. What was best for them? What made them safest? What brought them the most joy? All of Admin, as well as the Mods, have the goal of keeping our little space on Kim Namjoon’s internet joyful, safe, and factual. It can be difficult (for our Mods, especially) to keep up with that, but I think it's much of what sets us apart.

Patricia: The most amazing resource that we have is each other—Admin, moderators, volunteers, and even the people that just lurk quietly. I’m still amazed at how we have embraced each other, allowing everyone to be themselves. Being an ARMY is sometimes met with ignorance and a lack of understanding. All the support the community gives to others that might not feel as comfortable calling themselves ARMY is the most valuable and astonishing thing I have seen happen this last 18 months. It has been a source of comfort and strength not only to me but to many others. There’s an element of magic in how our 7 got together and I truly believe that the same was at play when AP529 was born. How do all these people from different corners of the world, with completely different backgrounds and personalities get together and make this happen? BTS found us and we found each other. For a lot of us, BTS are our comfort and our strength, and I want to believe that we have to bring that to each other as well.

Christina: There is a special skill that is like magic, that so many of us in this project possess.  We can learn anything. We have a certain way of figuring things out that involves everyone, and it is by that Bangtan-like magic that we all trusted each other from the beginning enough to do so!

Quince: None of us were particularly well-versed in ARMY “dos and don’ts” or being “creators” on social media before we began AP529. As a result of this, we learned some hard lessons as soon as we launched the project. We struggled with understanding what was happening and why, and had to dig deep to ask ourselves and each other if we thought it was worthwhile to continue. Though shaken, all six of us answered with a resounding “Yes!” And we kept digging deep within ourselves, utilizing our talents and life experience to support not only the project, but each other as well. And we were also smart enough to know that no matter how capable the six of us are, we couldn’t do this alone. It was only possible for the “magic” to keep happening because of the amazing Mods and volunteers who answered our call for help. Our strength and comfort lie in knowing that if any of us reaches out a hand, someone will be there to take it.

Doc: For me personally, I have found the greatest comfort and strength in AP529 members, volunteers, Moderators, and our Admin team. There have been many obstacles and challenges throughout the time we’ve been together as a project. But for me, the most impactful was the way I found my Magic Shop of healing and hope after my mom passed away. She had been struggling with end stage Parkinson’s for many years, and I was her primary caregiver when not at work, so her passing was not necessarily a surprise, but it was very sudden. She had been doing well, but got sick and was hospitalized in the middle of the project’s journey. During her hospitalization and after her passing, while I temporarily stepped away from the529live events—and wasn’t in Discord or on social media much—I never missed getting the link flows for the blog prepared each week. It was a source of comfort for me at that time to continue to fulfill my main task in the project—as the research team lead. Once I was ready, I re-joined the community, and they collectively hugged me and comforted me in my loss. As I reconnected with my people, I found happiness again. I found comfort. I found strength. I found reasons to laugh, and shoulders to cry on during difficult days. I had lost my father the previous year, and my son in 2015 (before the project existed), and the transition back into “normalcy” was so much less painful with this crazy community of people sending me Bangtan hugs in GIF form, and silly video clips to make me laugh. Receiving flowers, food, comfort, hugs, and emotional support from thousands of people around the world made it so much less of a struggle to face and overcome my grief, and for that I will forever be grateful and thankful.

Katie: The magic was discovering that pretty much no matter what we needed, one of the Admins or someone in the community had that skill and was willing to help. One of the great things about working with a community of adults is the variety of experiences each person brings to the table. We learned that Stefne has written books and screenplays. Patricia worked for the Australian Navy. Christina has a degree in geology. Quince is a convention junkie who can exchange quips about any nerdy fandom. And Doc is an amazing crafter with almost unlimited capacity for shenanigans.

I took comfort and found strength in knowing that no matter how I was feeling, someone would be there to let me sort through my thoughts and find a way to move forward. Even if I was angry or frustrated.

Jump to Comments

EUPHORIA:

What moments brought us pure joy and excitement? What achievements truly made us feel “euphoric”?

Stefne: When 90+ people set aside their time, saved up their funds, and chose to spend a few days in the middle of the United States with the community that we’d built. Seeing that people would make it a priority and show up made me realize that it was all worth it. I doubt the people who attended (and who will attend this year) have any idea what it means to Admin. It’s special. Truly, special.

Patricia: The most euphoric moments in my life are usually not tied to an achievement but more to an experience. A single moment, a mental photograph, or a fleeting feeling of joy usually have more meaning than any goal I have reached in my life. So for me, the first Kansas City meetup and the j-hope concerts in NY and Chicago are the moments that bring the fuzzies to my heart. Because I got to share them with my new ARMY sisters and because they were the result of something we fought hard to get to. I also find pure joy in hearing the stories of our AP529ers—how this community has welcomed them (regardless of background or how long they have been ARMY), when they find their first in real life ARMY friend, and seeing all the pictures of the local groups that have sprouted up all around in the community. They are the ones that make us, and I want to thank them for their support and love.  Another moment that stands out as “terrifying roller coaster euphoria”, was when the Ma City Map went online and out of control. That scramble with Katie to get it fixed while thousands of people were trying to get on it was an exhilarating chaotic moment of euphoria I’ll always remember.

Christina: Two things for me—when we can introduce someone to something that's new to them, whether it's an old video or SoundCloud song—that's so satisfying. And the other is moments when we can share a new video, music, or event in the Discord where all of us get to experience it together!


Quince: There are too many, honestly. I’m exceedingly proud of the “brand” we’ve built for our community—the safe space we’ve created. But personally, it’s the smallest moments that often bring me the greatest joy… when someone tells me that something I wrote in the blog really touched them or made them think about something in a different way… during watch parties when everyone is laughing, crying, or screaming together… or when someone in the server reaches out and says, “I’ve felt so alone, I’m so grateful I found AP529—this has been a lifesaver.” All of these moments add up to the reminder that what we’re doing is bigger than a fan project dedicated to BTS. While that’s what we gathered around initially, much like the members themselves, now we stay and continue for each other.

Doc: There have been many moments that made me excited and joyful during this project.The moments that have brought me the most joy have been the ones where connection and community stood out. Everytime another lonely ARMY finds a local friend on the Ma City Map, I rejoice. When we had our KC meetup in 2024 and spent the weekend squealing and nerding out about Bangtan with a hundred of our now-closest friends, it brought me joy.

When I watched as AP529 members met up in city after city on j-hope’s tour, my heart overflowed with happiness. Every time I see our community find each other, and lose a little bit of that loneliness, I feel a sense of euphoria because at the end of the day, the whole purpose of “Content and Community” with AP529 is so that we “Never Bangtan Alone”. So every time I see another set of ARMY Bangtanning together, I feel euphoric.

Katie: Bringing my freebie bags to the D-Day film a few months into the Project and finding people in my theater had already heard of AP529. Enjoying a meal with some local project members that day. It was the first time I’d sat down at a physical table to talk about BTS with people who didn’t think I was crazy.

Raising over $20,000 for UNICEF as a show of support for all seven members through the #BTSOnMyMind campaign. Turning those anxious, frustrated, and angry feelings of last summer into something good and positive.

Meeting people I had come to love in Kansas City. Looking them in the eyes and giving them a hug. Seeing true joy around the room, especially from people of a certain age—people who told us they often felt invisible or unwelcome. Watching people feel safe and have FUN in a space we created.

Jump to Comments

WE ARE BULLETPROOF: THE ETERNAL

How has your understanding of “community” evolved or been reinforced over the past 18 months of this project?

Stefne: What I’ve realized is that real community isn’t about who lives closest or even who thinks the most alike. It’s about being seen, known, and welcomed to come as you are. Over the last 529 days, I’ve watched a Discord server turn into a digital front porch, our TikTok and YouTube lives turn into chats on the sofa, and participated in social media interactions—like I was passing a friend in a coffee shop and stopping to give an update on life or an opinion about what’s going on in town. Our community may be virtual for the most part, but it’s real.

Patricia: When I fell down the rabbit hole, being a BTS fan was something completely solitary that I kept mostly to myself. I wouldn’t even call myself ARMY. I was trying to rationalize it for months because the absolute obsession made no sense and it was slightly scary. Even if it made sense theoretically, it was completely out of my comfort zone. My first concert in years, Agust D/SUGA D-DAY in NY, swayed me a bit to the idea of being an ARMY, but I still wasn’t sold. I am and I have always been a bit of a loner. And then AP529 came into my life and I resisted no longer. I went from spending a lot of time alone to having a worldwide sisterhood with inside jokes we didn’t even have to build over time. Time zones, location, age, and many other things that seemed to be important before didn’t matter anymore. Meeting other ARMY has been and continues to be a beautiful thing. Creating a safe space where we can be ourselves is probably one of the most rewarding things I have done in my life, and we have to congratulate ALL of us for that achievement. And given that I was practically a hermit previously, it’s astounding that in the last 18 months I have met a lot of new people virtually and in person. I have traveled to see new friends all over the US. I have shared meals, laughs, concerts, movies, walks, and so much joy. I’m in awe and incredibly grateful for this community, and so proud to be part of ARMY after resisting it for so long.

Christina: I'm old school, so before this project began I didn't really believe you could make friends solely in an online space. I was happily proved wrong. I have been part of several communities before, but the AP529 community became so special for me because for the first time, I felt very safe with so many new people. I don't normally open up to this many humans very easily.

Quince: I am a solitary creature by nature. I’m not shy, and I get along with others easily, but I am an only child and tend to feel most comfortable when on my own. I also, by nature of the volatile childhood I had, grew up far earlier than I should have. As such, I loathe admitting weakness or when I can’t handle something on my own. When times are tough, I default to isolation. While I have always been lucky to have wonderful friends and family, when I discovered BTS and no one else in my life seemed inclined to follow my leap down the rabbit hole, I began to feel incredibly lonely. I stuck it out on my own for almost a year, enduring the “That’s nice” platitudes I’d get from friends when I blurted out random BTS facts, until I finally downloaded TikTok out of sheer desperation—wanting to find other ARMY to connect with. I found Stefne, then joined the Discord, then said “Yes” when she asked if anyone could help start a “BTS book club”, and it was just a hop, skip, and a jump until I realized that I’d found where I was meant to be. Community isn’t a place—it’s a feeling. It’s laughter, it’s tears, it’s support and love. It isn’t view counts or viral videos, it’s understanding and education that uplifts. It’s a group of women who took a chance, reached out our hands, and said, “Come with us…”

Doc: I always understood community as just a group of people who share common characteristics or interests, often linked geographically or culturally. When we started this project, I continued, initially, to view our community more loosely, thinking of it as merely a group of people who love BTS and would miss them together. What I was not expecting was to find family. To find lifelong friends. To collect people from across the globe, and from all walks of life, who now know me better than my real-life acquaintances know me. I was not expecting to find a space where I could scream, and cry, and laugh, and find joy even when life is hard. For me, it reinforced the concept of the NEED for community in our lives… I never knew I needed to have close friends from around the world, with whom I can share my life any time—day or night—and find some level of connection. I guess I never knew (to quote RM) how “fuckin’ lonely” I had become in the post-COVID world until we six Admins became 7 with you, our lovely 529line.

Katie: During COVID lockdown, I joined a Discord server for people expecting children in October 2021. I didn’t anticipate it turning into a sisterhood that made my daily life and parenting journey so much brighter. When I found Stef on TikTok looking for ARMY friends, I immediately wanted to help bring the joy I had found in both BTS and online communities to more people.

Over the past 18 months, I’ve learned how many intelligent, interesting, hilarious, and generous ARMY there are, and how putting them together can create magic. I’ve also reinforced my belief that online friends and communities are just as valid and important as people you see in person.

Bangtan Bubble: What does the AP529 community mean to you?

Let us know your answer in the comments below or on social media (include #BangtanBubble)!

Jump to Comments

SIDE QUEST SQUIRREL:

MIKROKOSMOS: What small, individual contributions coalesced into something beautiful and significant?

Stefne: For me, it’s every single person in our community who stepped up to fill a role, welcome a new friend to the server, help plan an event, or host a watch party. To those who stepped in to help us out or make something happen, even in what to them may have felt like the smallest way—their efforts made the most significant impact on this project.

Every share, comment, and emoji. Every conversation. Every piece has added up to a fantastic community, and I am forever grateful.

Christina: Every single pic posted in the Discord server, every "hang in there" message to each other, every friendship made through the project… All tiny little moments that make our community such a wonderful place to be.

IDOL: Did we ever feel pressured to conform to external expectations or "perform" in a way that wasn't authentic to our project's needs? How did we handle that?

Patricia: This might be surprising but I would say NEVER. When you put together 6 very strong women with strong convictions and a common objective, who also strive to be authentic and true to themselves (we have a GREAT EXAMPLE to follow), this was never a question. There’s one thing that would have totally made me run in the opposite direction as fast as I could and that was if any of us 6 was, even mildly, egotistical. Even if we had to figure things and each other out as we went, we have built a common ground that doesn’t want to conform to what is expected but what we feel is right, and also our truth. It’s very empowering and refreshing to find women supporting women when sometimes we can be our own worst enemies.

FAKE LOVE: Were there any assumptions, expectations, or initial ideas that turned out to be "fake"? What did we believe was true that wasn't?

Quince: In the beginning of the project we based our ideas off of the assumption that in order to get attention and grow, we would need to curry favor from and include outside creators/guests in our plans. Early on we planned to base our livestreams around interviewing different guests in the ARMY social media sphere. While we have had guests join us that were amazing and we had a great time with them, we ultimately discovered that the greatest synergy in AP529 lies within the Admin team and our community. We have the most fun when we’re just chatting and shooting the shit with each other about topics surrounding BTS that matter to US, and aren’t pandering to an algorithm. The AP529 community grew organically—one person at a time, as the word spread that “Friends never let friends Bangtan alone.”

ANSWER: LOVE MYSELF: In what ways did we demonstrate self-care and mutual support within the team? How did we empower each other?

Doc: As I said in a previous answer, one of our project mottos as an Admin team has been “What would Bangtan do?” With over a decade of footage available to us, we have been allowed to witness the way in which they deal with conflict, and the ways they show support for each other. Much like that old cliché, “nobody loves BTS as much as BTS loves BTS”, I truly believe that nobody loves AP529 Admins as much as the Admins love each other. In the last 18 months, we have spent an inordinate amount of time together. We have had small arguments, and in every situation have taken the time to talk out our differences and resolve our conflicts. We have also been each other’s biggest cheerleaders and enablers. When one of us is applying for a job, or writing a book, or facing the daily grind at work, all of us are sitting in that interview, cheering each other on, hugging each other when we don’t have the greatest outcome, and encouraging each other that we CAN make it through a daunting day. We have taken each other on trips, and to random places. We have hugged, cried, laughed, yelled, squealed, screamed and jumped with joy, and above all, we have done it together.

Katie: I like to think that each of the Admins has learned at least one lesson from the others. Stef taught me to see more possibilities and say YES. Patricia taught me to think bigger, sometimes so big it’s scary. Christina taught me to be more creative, even if the end result gets thrown in the trash. Quince taught me how to meet people where they are instead of where I wish they’d be. Doc taught me to have more fun (and use more cuss words, which is honestly impressive).

I found empowerment through maximizing each person’s best traits and seeing people shine in the roles they enjoyed. I supported the team by (attempting) to keep things organized so we could achieve the things we dreamed about.

Final Thoughts

Six intelligent women with varying skills, razor sharp wit and humor, questionable senses of decorum, and a vague dream walk into a bar (Discord server)…

Launching and growing ARMY Project 529 with the rest of the Admin Team and writing this blog week after week has been one of the hardest, yet most rewarding things I’ve ever done. I have had some of the highest highs and the lowest lows of my entire life during this past year and a half. I’ve learned a lot about myself, what it means to be part of a community, and of course about BTS.

When we started out, we talked a lot about brand cohesion and all the things we would need to do to get the word out about the project. What we ended up learning was that there wasn’t any special time of day we needed to post on social media… there weren’t certain people we had to align ourselves with… there wasn’t a need for hot takes or clickbait. All we really had to do was keep our promises and keep showing up. So we did.

And little by little, the community began showing up with us. We didn’t always know what we were doing (Spoiler Alert: we still don’t), but we always knew we were going to keep trying our best to make sure no ARMYs ever feel left out or alone. AP529 has become the place where friends Bangtan together.

And this is not the end! Not by a longshot! Come back next week friends as the Admins look forward and speculate on the future of ARMY Project 529. We have so many ideas for our Chapter Two… aren’t you curious to hear about them?

But first, let’s make it through FESTA and the return of OT7! Borahae!

CREDITS:

ARMY Project 529 Volunteers

Research Team: Angel (TikTok: Lilangel2828), Leslie Day (TikTok: Leslie Day), Merry (TikTok: merryj67), Sam T (TikTok: samt_26), Shelley (TikTok: shels167), Trudy (TikTok: theeducationmommy), Viv (TikTok: VivEliz); Video Team: Leslie Day (TikTok: Leslie Day), Namz (TikTok: Namz07)

Join us LIVE every Sunday evening at 8pm ET for #the529live, a wrap up of each week's “Monday Muster”, thoughtful discussions, and tons of laughter! And catch us on TikTok each Wednesday night at 9pm ET for #the529tea, when we talk Bangtan news and dish about any TEA that might be happening on Kim Namjoon’s internet. 

Sunday’s LIVE is hosted on ARMY Project 529’s YouTube channel: @ARMYProject529 while Wednesday’s LIVE is on our project TikTok:  @ARMYProject529.

Love.

Jung Kook has never minded being the youngest. He’s been called the Golden Maknae (황금막내/hwang-geummagnae) for almost half his life now. In a 2023 interview with Apple Music, Zane Lowe asks him if making and releasing his first solo album finally let him shed the the feeling of being “the youngest”. To which JK replies:

Even in 20 or 30 years, I will always be the youngest, the “maknae”. That will never change.

It’s not said with any exasperation or regret. In fact, he just sounds fond. Fond and a little pleased. He smiles as he says, “And I don’t really dislike being called ‘maknae’.”, before admitting that there is a certain privilege he knows was afforded him by virtue of being the youngest. Jung Kook has also credited his six BTS hyungs with being the reason he’s gotten as far as he has, claiming that he learned and took something different from each one of them—things that shaped him into the man he is today.

Which is likely part of the reason he felt so determined to prove himself with Golden. Jung Kook told Jimin, while they were filming their travel show “Are You Sure?” that the reason he decided to move away from songwriting for his album to receiving songs written by others was because he wanted to focus on honing his performance skills. He wanted to really stretch his vocal and dancing abilities, to show the world what the “Golden Maknae” of BTS—the product of his hyungs hard work—was truly capable of.

I just follow my own compass.

This quote, from Jung Kook in his 2024 documentary “I Am Still”, sums up how he usually makes decisions for himself. He listens, feels, and trusts his gut. And those instincts were honed over many years of working together as part of a team and knowing how to play to everyone’s strengths.

He approached developing a theme for Golden and finding material to fit it in typical JK fashion. Despite the fact that he wasn’t involved in the songwriting process, Jung Kook wasn’t careless with the songs he selected. He listened closely, and when he felt that pull from his inner compass—he followed it.

He said he knew right away when he heard some of the songs, like “Seven” and “Standing Next to You” that he could perform them better than anyone. He knew they were meant to be HIS. And as he continued to listen to his gut feelings, one by one, each track fell into place. Jung Kook was meticulous about the arrangement of the album—upon its release he told us that the order of the songs is meant to show the progression of the theme.

And what was the theme? Simple… love. One of JK’s biggest hopes with Golden was to show how much he’d matured since BTS’ debut ten years earlier. Not only by showing how far he’d developed his talents, but also by singing about love in a far more adult way than he ever had before. Over the course of 2023, he told his fans many times “I can’t stay young forever. I’m an adult, wouldn’t it be weird if I didn’t mature?” And so, as we discovered last week, the front half of his album confronts those mature themes head on. Songs like “Seven (feat. Latto)” and “3D (feat. Jack Harlow)” threw ARMY for a loop at first, but helped tell the story of the first passionate beginnings of a love affair.

This week, we’re diving into the second half of Golden, where the tone makes a shift. In the beginning, love feels wild—new and exciting. Sometimes, as time goes on, things can change. Sometimes, love sours, or burns out. And sometimes, people just grow apart. Jung Kook takes us through all of the heady emotions one by one, knocking us down and picking us back up again. The journey the album takes us on proves that we should always trust Jung Kook’s compass as well.

Playlists & Lyrics

• JUNG KOOK: GOLDEN ALBUM SPOTIFY PLAYLIST

• JUNG KOOK: GOLDEN ALBUM LYRIC TRANSLATION

• ARMY PROJECT 529 WEEK 72 VIDEO PLAYLIST 
  

Skip to Content: Day One | Day Two | Day Three | Day Four | Day Five

DAY ONE:

Jung Kook released Golden on November 3, 2023. Less than a week later, on the 9th, he gave a “surprise” performance in the middle of Times Square. Though it was only announced approximately 30 minutes before start time, ARMY (amateur sleuths that we are) had known something was up since the previous day.

An announcement had been made via Twitter (X) that JK had something special planned for ARMY for the following day. He’d just been on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” a few nights earlier, so we all knew he was still in New York City. And early in the day on the 9th, eagle-eyed fans noticed that the TSX billboard in Times Square—the one that had the promo for Jung Kook’s Golden on it—was suddenly being opened up. And the little stage area behind it was being cleaned and set up in some way.

It didn’t take long for the information to spread on social media. Local ARMYs began making their way there and set up “camp” for the rest of the day. It was incredibly risky, considering all they were going on was a bunch of guesswork, but the gamble ended up paying off, when at 4:30 PM (ET) it was officially announced that Jung Kook was going to be performing in Times Square. And a half-hour later—he made history.

Of course JK sang his new title track “Standing Next to You”, and his monster hits “Seven (feat. Latto)” and “3D (feat. Jack Harlow)”, but he also performed two of the albums B-Sides. And one of those was the sweet and shy “Yes or No”, a song co-written by Ed Sheeran. It’s about the moments in a relationship when you begin to look at the feelings in a deeper way. Is this more than just passion? Is there more here?

Are you feeling the rush?

If so, then I think I know what's going on

And are we falling in love?

Say yes or no, yes or no, yes or no

Are you thinking 'bout us? ('Bout us)

If so, then I think I know what's (Know what's) going on

And are we falling in love?

Say yes or no, yes or no, yes or no

Jung Kook looked so relaxed while performing the song, it was clear he was proud of it. And even though the album had only been released six days earlier, when he held the microphone out toward the crowd, they clearly sang the lyrics back to him. It was a beautiful, symbiotic moment between artist and fan, and just a massive wow for how far BTS’ maknae had come over the past decade.

And the answer to your question, JK, is yes. We say “YES!”

"Yes or No” Live Performance

1. "YES OR NO" | LYRICS (2:28)

2. "YES OR NO" LIVE | TSX, TIMES SQUARE CLIP (2:37 - as shown)

3. "YES OR NO" JUNG KOOK FOCUS FANCAM | TSX, TIMES SQUARE (2:17)

4. "YES OR NO" | GOLDEN LIVE ON STAGE CLIP (2:35)

5. "YES OR NO" FANCAM | GOLDEN LIVE ON STAGE (2:44 - as shown)

6. "YES OR NO" FANCAM | FMV (2:33)

7. "YES OR NO" | STAGE MIX (2:40)

8. JUNG KOOK SINGING "YES OR NO" | WE-LIVE CLIP (2:31)

9. JK SINGING "YES OR NO" | WE-LIVE CLIP (2:46)

10. JUNG KOOK CALLS RM DURING "IT'S 5 PM AND THIS IS KIM NAMJUN" | 2023 BTS FESTA CLIP (4:34)

11. BONUS: JUNG KOOK: GOLDEN, BTS REUNION, & CONNECTION WITH ARMY | APPLE MUSIC (34:51 - as shown)

"YES OR NO" FANCAM | GOLDEN LIVE ON STAGE

BONUS: JUNG KOOK: GOLDEN, BTS REUNION, & CONNECTION WITH ARMY | APPLE MUSIC

JUNG KOOK | CALVIN KLEIN Spring 2024 CAMPAIGN

BEHIND THE SCENES WITH JUNG KOOK | CALVIN KLEIN SPRING 2024 CAMPAIGN

JUNG KOOK Q&A EXCLUSIVE AT CALVIN KLEIN CAMPAIGN | ACCESS HOLLYWOOD

Fun Fact:

It’s a campaign for CLOTHES? Ohhhhh.

I’m not sure you really need my to say a lot of words here. Because… yeah.

In 2023, Jung Kook was announced as a global brand ambassador to Calvin Klein and well, ARMY hasn’t been the same since.

Enjoy all of the campaign videos below in order, or just pick one at random. Doesn’t matter, either path leads to piercings, tattoos, and abs so well defined they look like the ARMY logo.

No big deal. Is it hot in here?

1. INTRODUCING JUNG KOOK | CALVIN KLEIN SPRING 2023 (0:35)

2. WHAT WOULD YOU ASK JUNG KOOK? 💭 | CALVIN KLEIN (0:40)

3. ON SET WITH JUNG KOOK 👋 | CALVIN KLEIN (0:16)

4. JUNG KOOK X CALVIN KLEIN | TWIXTOR CLIPS FOR EDITING (1:35)

5. WAIT FOR IT. #JUNGKOOK ON SET. WHAT WOULD YOU ASK? 😏 | CALVIN KLEIN (0:26)

6. JUNG KOOK IN ICONIC TEES | CALVIN KLEIN SPRING 2023 (0:26)

7. JUNG KOOK CALVIN KLEIN EVENT SURPRISE VISIT (2:32)

8. EPISODE: JUNG KOOK’S CALVIN KLEIN COMMERCIAL SHOOT SKETCH (8:55)

9. JUNG KOOK FINDS PLEASURE IN THE MUSIC | CALVIN KLEIN FALL 2023 CAMPAIGN (0:38)

10. ON SET WITH JUNG KOOK | CALVIN KLEIN FALL 2023 CAMPAIGN (1:11 - as shown)

11. QUICK CHANGE ACCELERATED. JUNG KOOK IN THE NEW COLLECTION. | CALVIN KLEIN (0:15)

12. JUNG KOOK’S MOST MEMORABLE FAN MOMENT? 👀 BEHIND THE SCENES OF THE CALVIN KLEIN FALL CAMPAIGN. (0:12)

13. JUNG KOOK BEHIND THE SCENES OF THE FALL CAMPAIGN. | CALVIN KLEIN (0:10)

14. BTS JUNG KOOK IS COMING TO JAPAN! | CALVIN KLEIN GLOBAL EVENT IN TOKYO (1:35)

15. JUNG KOOK CUTELY INTERACTS WITH REPORTERS, CELEBRITIES, AND FANS AT THE CALVIN KLEIN TOKYO EVENT | KPOP LIVE (1:44)

16. SEE IT IN MOTION. JUNG KOOK WEARS THE LATEST CALVIN KLEIN DENIM AT OUR EVENT IN TOKYO. | CALVIN KLEIN (0:15)

17. THE ARRIVAL. JUNG KOOK STEPS ON THE TOKYO SCENE WEARING CALVIN KLEIN DENIM. | CALVIN KLEIN (0:25)

18. DIGITAL COVER (OCTOBER 2023) | VOGUE MAN HONG KONG

19. JUNG KOOK IN CALVIN KLEIN | SPRING 2024 CAMPAIGN (0:43)

20. BEHIND THE SCENES WITH JUNG KOOK | CALVIN KLEIN SPRING 2024 CAMPAIGN (0:33 - as shown)

21. ON SET WITH JUNG KOOK | CALVIN KLEIN SPRING 2024 CAMPAIGN (0:52)

22. JUNG KOOK Q&A EXCLUSIVE AT CALVIN KLEIN CAMPAIGN | ACCESS HOLLYWOOD (1:30)

Jump to Comments

DAY TWO:

The other B-Side track Jung Kook performed that night in Times Square coincidentally happened to be the very next one on the album—”Please Don’t Change (feat. DJ Snake)”. It, as the title suggests, features well-known French DJ and producer DJ Snake who has worked with and had hits in the past with artists like Lady Gaga, Justin Bieber, Pitbull, and Lil’ Jon.

The steady, almost tropic sounding beat and fast pace both contradict and reinforce the message of the song. It’s fun, but almost frenetic sounding. The lyrics are a heartfelt plea from someone to the person they love, asking them to remain true to themselves, and to the love within their relationship.

Even if your stars align and you're light years away

I'll be the same

I'll be the same

Tell me, if my stars align and I'm light years away

Will you do the same?

A couple of weeks later, during his “Golden Live On Stage” showcase concert, Jung Kook performed the song again—this time with backup dancers. And while the choreography was upbeat and joyful in its expression, we felt there might be more behind it. Because there is a wistful tone to the song as well, almost as though, even in the midst of this pleading, this person knows that maybe what they’re saying is falling on deaf ears. It’s the uncertainty that can sometimes end up being the crack in the foundation. When doubt creeps in, sometimes there’s no coming back even from just the thought.

"PLEASE DON'T CHANGE" JUNG KOOK FOCUS FANCAM |  GOLDEN LIVE ON STAGE

1. "PLEASE DON'T CHANGE" (FEAT. DJ SNAKE) | LYRICS (2:27)

2. "PLEASE DON'T CHANGE" LIVE | TSX, TIMES SQUARE CLIP (2:38)

3. "PLEASE DON'T CHANGE" JUNG KOOK FOCUS FANCAM |  GOLDEN LIVE ON STAGE (2:29 - as shown)

4. "PLEASE DON'T CHANGE" (FEAT. DJ SNAKE) | STAGE MIX - SHORTS (0:34)

5. "PLEASE DON'T CHANGE" (FEAT. DJ SNAKE) | FMV (2:22)

6. JUNG KOOK SINGS "PLEASE DON'T CHANGE" | WE-LIVE (1:22)

7. BONUS: TAEHYUNG SINGING "PLEASE DON'T CHANGE" | WE-LIVE (2:09)

8. JUNG KOOK LIVE AT TSX, TIMES SQUARE (18:31)

Bangtan Bubble: Have you ever faced the reality of someone you loved changing?

Let us know your answer in the comments below or on social media (include #BangtanBubble)!

Jump to Comments

DAY THREE:

When Jung Kook was asked by Zane Lowe what his favorite songs on Golden were, he immediately said the title track, “Standing Next to You”. But after thinking a moment more, he added that he also really liked another song, one called “Hate You”, and he thought that it was one that was going to resonate deeply with ARMY as well.

Turns out, he was right. “Hate You” is the first true ballad on the album and as the title would suggest it might, it reaches deep inside and twists the heart painfully. ARMY immediately latched on to the lyrics and Jung Kook’s breathy tones, wondering (even though we know he didn’t write it) “Who hurt you?!”

The lyrics tell the story of someone so deep in heartbreak, likely in the aftermath of a breakup, wishing that the person who left him had done something terrible to him. Something that would make all the pain go away, or at least feel worthwhile. Something that would allow other emotions, like anger and hatred, to come to the forefront

We weren't perfect but we came close

Until I put all of our pain under the microscope

And I still can't face it

I'm still in love, for what it's worth

Maybe hating you's the only way it doesn't hurt

Without something terrible to hold on to, the pain doesn’t make sense because the relationship seemed to be going so well. Just a couple of days before Jung Kook enlisted in the military, on December 9, 2023 a “visualizer” was released for “Hate You”. In reality, it was pretty much a music video. In it, we see JK, soft and vulnerable, somewhere in a high-rise apartment. He’s alone and singing along earnestly to the song, and it’s shot in black and white.

As the song moves along, we hear every emotion in Jung Kook’s voice clearly—the sharp intakes of breath, the barely withheld sobs, and finally, the cracks right as he sings “I’m still in love, for what it’s worth”, and the video slowly swells with color. As the song crescendos into his beautiful vocalizations, the video becomes animated, with JK grabbing the hand of a faceless girl (with purple hair). The pair take off running through the woods, and we see animated Jung Kook writing the words “love” and “hate” on his arm while a sea of ARMY bombs twinkle in the background around the stage in a packed concert arena.

It’s not a far stretch to assume that Jung Kook was equating the lyrics of this song with how he felt about having to put his career on hold right after dropping his first album, and how he felt leaving ARMY behind to go and enlist for his mandatory military service. I imagine that his emotions at the time were extremely complicated. He was flying high on success and the adoration of his fans, but knew he had to shut that away for a while in order to do his duty to his country. So perhaps it was easier for him to imagine that something terrible had happened, something that would allow him to not miss ARMY as much. Perhaps this was his way of telling us that he needed to compartmentalize for a bit, in order to get over the sting of farewell.

"HATE YOU" | IHEART RADIO LIVE

1. "HATE YOU" | OFFICIAL VISUALIZER (2:38 - as shown)

2. "HATE YOU" | LYRICS (2:35)

3. "HATE YOU" | IHEART RADIO LIVE (2:38 - as shown)

4. JUNG KOOK TALKS ABOUT CONNECTING WITH FANS, HIS STYLE, WORKING WITH CHARLIE PUTH & MORE! | IHEARTRADIO (5:04)

5. "HATE YOU" FANCAM | GOLDEN LIVE ON STAGE (2:39)

6. "HATE YOU" | FMV (2:39)

7. JUNG KOOK SINGING "HATE YOU" | WE-LIVE (2:23)

8. JUNG KOOK REVEALS🔥 HIS ACTUAL FILMING SCENE | VOGUE MEETS (0:40)

9. BEHIND THE SCENES WITH JUNG KOOK | VOGUE MEETS (3:09 - as shown)

10. JUNG KOOK ANSWERS 5 QUESTIONS ABOUT HIS ROUTINE | VOGUE INDIA (3:16)

11. UNBOXING VOGUE KOREA JUNG KOOK OCTOBER 2023 COVERS (7:45)

"HATE YOU" | OFFICIAL VISUALIZER

BEHIND THE SCENES WITH JUNG KOOK | VOGUE MEETS

Fun Fact

We always love a JK fan song for FESTA, right? Cheers to 11 years in 2024!

Even while cooking up a storm in the military, he made sure to remind us that he’ll…

”Never let go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go go…”

1. "NEVER LET GO" | OFFICIAL LYRIC VIDEO (2:47)

2. "NEVER LET GO" | OUT NOW (1:01)

3. "NEVER LET GO" | LYRICS (2:47)

4. "NEVER LET GO" | FMV (3:03)

5. "NEVER LET GO" | RECORDING BEHIND (0:31)

Jump to Comments

DAY FOUR:

"SOMEBODY" FANCAM | GOLDEN LIVE ON STAGE

There are a number of times that Jung Kook surprised me with Golden, but perhaps the most shocked I felt was the first time I heard his voice come in on the dark and very moody track “Somebody”. We often hear JK singing very comfortably up in his higher registers and his falsetto. And though we know he has a wide vocal range, he doesn’t dip down to the lower end of it with any regular frequency.

So imagine my face, when “Somebody” began and I heard a deep ass voice singing “Same back roads…switching lanes…”. I said, “Who is that singing on Jung Kook’s song? Cue me looking up the liner notes searching for a non-existent feature. 

You mean that deep ass voice is Jeon Jung Kook?!

It was. When I picked my brain up off the floor, put it back in my head, and listened to the rest of the song, his signature sound showed up later. But I was entranced. It sounded so dark, so angry, so petty, so… smug and bitter. So… not what Jung Kook usually sings.

I fucking loved it. I still do. It’s my second favorite song on the album, and it stops me in my tracks every time I hear it. 

When you go out in the night

You're under the lights

Oh, I hoped you'd find somebody

Hoped you'd find

Somebody to ride, somebody to die

Oh, I hoped you'd find somebody

I hope you know that somebody ain't me

It’s the perfect post-breakup song. The “you could have had me, but you don’t anymore” song that we all think about when we are in that bitter stage of getting over someone. The way Jung Kook uses his voice you hear a mocking sort of passion and determination. It’s sexy, and it’s devastating, which… let’s face it. Isn’t that how we all want to be after a breakup?

1. "SOMEBODY" | LYRICS (2:49)

2. "SOMEBODY" FANCAM | GOLDEN LIVE ON STAGE (2:46 - as shown)

3. "SOMEBODY" | FMV (2:52)

4. JUNG KOOK SINGING "SOMEBODY" | WE-LIVE (1:42)

5. JUNG KOOK DIVES INTO A BALL PIT TO ANSWER ARMY’S BURNING QS | SPOTIFY BALL-TERVIEW TEASER (6:57)

6. JUNG KOOK SHARES HIS PERSONAL RAMYEON PORRIDGE RECIPEㅣGOLDEN RELAX ROOM - KPOP ON! SPOTIFY (23:37)

7. JUNG KOOK’S ON A MISSION TO WISH ARMY SWEET DREAMS | SPOTIPOLY GAME TEASER (10:51)

8. BONUS: GO BEHIND THE SCENES OF JUNG KOOK’S DAZED COVER SHOOT | DAZED AUTUMN 23 (1:06 - as shown)

9. BONUS: KISSING YOU 😘 JUNG KOOK RECREATES PEAK ROMEO + JULIET ON SET FOR DAZED COVER SHOOT | DAZED (0:14)

10. BONUS: JUNGKOOK INTERVIEW DAZED MAGAZINE IN ENGLISH 2023 (10:11)

11. BONUS: JUNG KOOK BTS DAZED PHOTOSHOOT | TWIXTOR CLIPS (1:00)

12. BONUS: DAZED JUNG KOOK AUTUMN 2023 ISSUE UNBOXING (7:22)

JUNG KOOK DIVES INTO A BALL PIT TO ANSWER ARMY’S BURNING QS | SPOTIFY BALL-TERVIEW TEASER

JUNG KOOK’S ON A MISSION TO WISH ARMY SWEET DREAMS | SPOTIPOLY GAME TEASER

BONUS: GO BEHIND THE SCENES OF JUNG KOOK’S DAZED COVER SHOOT | DAZED AUTUMN 23

"I AM STILL" | I AM JUNG KOOK OF BTS

Fun Fact:

“I Am Still”… (With You).

After we’d received documentaries surrounding Chapter Two solo activities from j-hope, SUGA, and Jimin, it wasn’t surprising when an upcoming one for Jung Kook was announced in August of 2024. Especially when ARMY recalled seeing JK hauling around his camera bags over the last few months before he began his military service.

“I Am Still” documents Jung Kook through both the creation process and promotional period for Golden, taking us all the way up to his enlistment. We are given a “backstage” glimpse at so many pivotal moments—like the recording sessions he spent with Andrew Watt, how he pushed through being sick all during his promotions for “Seven (feat. Latto)”, and even the giddiness he felt before and after his epic performance in Times Square months later.

The documentary shows us what a perfectionist Jung Kook is—a fierce performer determined to always give his best. But I think the best moments it gives us are the quiet ones. like when he threw himself down on his bed after Times Square, giggling and kicking his feet in the air while watching people’s reactions online to his performance.

It’s then that we see remnants of the young boy who vowed to be worthy of his dream and his fans all those years ago, and can truly be proud of the man he has become.

1. "I AM STILL" | ANNOUNCEMENT (0:55)

2. "I AM STILL" | MAIN TRAILER (1:13)

3. "I AM STILL" | OFFICIAL TRAILER (1:11)

4. "I AM STILL" | TICKET ANNOUNCEMENT (0:20)

5. "I AM STILL" | SNEAK PEAK (1:01)

6. "I AM STILL" PREVIEW 1 | SEVEN (1:01)

7. "I AM STILL" PREVIEW 2 | 3D (1:01)

8. "I AM STILL" PREVIEW 3 | STANDING NEXT TO YOU (1:06)

9. "I AM STILL" | D-1 ANNOUNCEMENT (0:25)

10. "I AM STILL" | HUNGRY (0:27)

11. "I AM STILL" | HUSTLING (0:41)

12. "I AM STILL" | WITH YOU (0:40)

13. "I AM STILL" | BEHIND (0:56)

14. "I AM STILL" | FROM THE NEW YORK TIMES SQUARE STAGE TO THE MONITORING (0:47)

15. "I AM STILL" | PARTY EDITION TRAILER (0:31)

16. "I AM STILL" | SO SHOW ME~🎤 I'LL SHOW YOU~💜 (0:42)

17. "I AM STILL" | SUPERMAN (0:51)

18. "I AM STILL" | STRETCH AND SHINE (0:52)

19. "I AM STILL" | I AM JUNG KOOK OF BTS (1:05)

20. "I AM STILL" | POSING AND BOXING (0:51)

21. "I AM STILL" | DISNEY+ OFFICIAL TRAILER (1:16)

22. "I AM STILL" | WATCH ON DISNEY+

Jump to Comments

DAY FIVE:

The last two songs on Golden fall more into familiar breakup territory. They’re sad and wistful, looking back on what was, and wondering if the future can ever be bright and happy again. While both give us familiar emotions, they still show Jung Kook stretching his abilities beyond what we’d seen from him before.

“Too Sad to Dance” is a sweet acoustic guitar number that reminds you of sitting out on your front porch at night, looking up at the stars and thinking back on happier times. The whistling melody evokes the feeling of someone trying to put on a brave face, but really knowing they feel the opposite. In this case, even though he’s trying to whistle a happy tune, he’s too sad to even try dancing along to it.

The last song, “Shot Glass Full of Tears” is the album’s other ballad. Both the title, and the echoing nature of the background vocals give us the feel of someone seeking comfort at their favorite bar. Everyone raises a glass to try and cheer you up, even as you’re crying. The lyrics tell the tale of a love that burned out, and left someone wondering if they’d ever be alright again.

Tell me, am I ever gonna feel again?

Tell me, am I ever gonna heal again?

Got a shot glass full of tears

Drink, drink, drink, say "Cheers"

I got all these diamonds running down my face

And I ain't letting any of 'em go to waste

Got a shot glass full of tears

It’s relatable. How many of us have sought solace in a drink or two during hard times like a breakup? You think to yourself if I can just numb the pain, maybe I’ll feel happy again instead… or at the very least I can pretend. But really, we know it’s just a temporary band-aid.

The range of emotions that Jung Kook takes us on—the highs and lows of Golden—is nothing short of phenomenal. When I think back to him talking about how much he learned from his hyungs, how he took important lessons from each of them—I can see it all over this album. The attention to details, the vocal techniques, the care for the thematic thread, the drive to perform, etc. He absorbed it all and then laid it out for us to see in one beautiful body of work. 

1. "TOO SAD TO DANCE" | LYRICS (2:56)

2. "TOO SAD TO DANCE" | GOLDEN LIVE ON STAGE (2:52 - as shown)

3. "TOO SAD TO DANCE" FANCAM | GOLDEN LIVE ON STAGE (2:43)

4. "TOO SAD TO DANCE" | FMV (2:56)

5. JUNG KOOK SINGS "TOO SAD TO DANCE" | WE-LIVE (2:47)

6. JUNG KOOK SINGING "TOO SAD TO DANCE" | WE-LIVE (2:35)

7. "SHOT GLASS FULL OF TEARS" | LYRICS (2:48)

8. "SHOT GLASS FULL OF TEARS" | GOLDEN LIVE ON STAGE (2:51 - as shown)

9. "SHOT GLASS FULL OF TEARS" FANCAM | GOLDEN LIVE ON STAGE (4:04)

10. "SHOT GLASS FULL OF TEARS" | FMV (2:51)

11. JUNG KOOK SINGING "SHOT GLASS FULL OF TEARS" | WE-LIVE (2:44)

12. JUNG KOOK SINGS "SHOT GLASS FULL OF TEARS" | WE-LIVE (2:22)

13. BONUS: GOLDEN LIVE ON STAGE | WEVERSE (1:40:44)

"TOO SAD TO DANCE" | GOLDEN LIVE ON STAGE

"SHOT GLASS FULL OF TEARS" | GOLDEN LIVE ON STAGE

Bangtan Bubble: We’ve reached the end, what’s been your favorite part of the blog?

Let us know your answer in the comments below or on social media (include #BangtanBubble)!

Jump to Comments

FINAL THOUGHTS:

Jung Kook has been mostly quiet during his time in the military, but when we have heard from him, he’s only ever reassured us how much he misses us and can’t wait to be reunited with both ARMY and his brothers in BTS. I know I speak for all of their fans when I say, I can’t wait to see what the future holds not only for the group, but for Jung Kook’s solo career as well. That shy 14 year-old, who told himself there was no such thing as “practice” any longer, who decided to sing every moment of every day from then on so that he could prove he belonged in BTS… well, I’d say he more than succeeded, wouldn’t you?

Well, friends… we’ve done it. We’ve reached the end of BTS and member content that we promised to cover during the time they were gone for military service. Can you believe it? I know I can’t. I’m feeling rather emotional about it to be honest. I’ve put my entire heart and soul into writing this blog, and I hope you have enjoyed going on this purple-filled journey with me.

“But Quince,” I hear you saying. “This is only Week 72 and you said it would be 75 weeks!” Don’t worry, we have some surprises coming up for you over the next few weeks. Make sure you come back to see what’s in store. And don’t worry, this isn’t the end of ARMY Project 529—not by a longshot. We have our own Chapter Two that will be starting soon, so stay tuned for that as well. As long as we’re able, we’ll be here.

Because friends never let friends Bangtan alone. Borahae.

Side Quest

Two idiots (sometimes three) decide to travel together and film it. What could go wrong?

The above is said with love and tongue firmly placed in cheek. But when we’re watching some of BTS’ maknaes wide-eyed while pushing a cart through Walmart, one of them getting repeatedly distracted by Twinkies, it’s not hard to imagine that Jimin and Jung Kook are just regular dudes out acting like fools, buying supplies for a party they’ll be going to later with their other friends.

When the announcement was made last summer that a travel show (a TRAVEL SHOW?) featuring Jimin and Jung Kook would be releasing on Disney+, ARMY collectively wondered “When did they have the time to do this?” and continued to marvel at the sheer volume of content BTS prepared for us before their enlistment.

We’d obviously seen BTS travel together before, but it had been awhile, especially just a few of them at a time. What was the show going to be like? Was it going to be heartfelt and serious with a lot of beautiful locations and deep conversations?

Riiiiiiiiiight.

Okay, there was a little of that. But mostly? Chaos. “Are You Sure” is eight episodes of maknae giggles, Jimin’s body repeatedly rebelling against him, Jung Kook cooking and eating endlessly, a special guest appearance by the third idiot, I mean maknae (Taehyung), chasing each other around in various states of undress, and even more giggling.

In other words, it’s the best. The absolute best.

ARE YOU SURE?! MAIN TRAILER

ARE YOU SURE?! ANNOUNCEMENT (FROM JEJU)

1. ARE YOU SURE?! LAUNCH TRAILER (0:39)

2. ARE YOU SURE?! ANNOUNCEMENT (FROM USA) (1:31)

3. ARE YOU SURE?! TEASER TRAILER (1:04)

4. ARE YOU SURE?! MAIN TRAILER (1:51 -as shown)

5. JIMIN'S OFF ❓ & ON ❗| ARE YOU SURE?! (0:32)

6. JUNG KOOK'S OFF ❓ & ON ❗| ARE YOU SURE?! (0:32)

7. 🏕️FULL OF ROMANCE, IS THIS RIGHT? 🌿 | ARE YOU SURE?! (0:26)

8. 🥽FULL OF YOUTH, THIS IS RIGHT! 🍊 | ARE YOU SURE?! (0:23)

9. 🏂FULL OF HAPPINESS, THIS IS RIGHT~ ⛄ | ARE YOU SURE?! (0:25)

10. JUST A FEW HIGHLIGHTS FROM #JIMIN AND #JUNGKOOK'S U.S. ADVENTURES | ARE YOU SURE?! (0:58)

11. ARE YOU SURE?! PREVIEW CLIP (WITH SPECIAL GUEST) (1:05)

12. ARE YOU SURE?! ANNOUNCEMENT (FROM JEJU) (1:11 - as shown)

13. JEJU EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS 🥽 | ARE YOU SURE?! (0:51)

14. ARE YOU SURE?! PHOTOBOOK VISUALIZER (0:21)

15. SAPPORO EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS❄️🤷🏻‍♂️🤷🏻‍♂️ | ARE YOU SURE?! (0:53 - as shown)

16. ARE YOU SURE?! PHOTOBOOK BEHIND PREVIEW IN USA🗽 (0:21)

17. ARE YOU SURE?! PHOTOBOOK BEHIND PREVIEW IN JEJU🏝️ (0:19)

18. ARE YOU SURE?! PHOTOBOOK BEHIND PREVIEW IN SAPPORO⛄️ (0:20)

19. WATCH ARE YOU SURE?! | DISNEY+

CREDITS:

YouTube/Web

BANGTANTV, HYBE LABELS, ACCESS HOLLYWOOD, AFBF7, AKSHUARMY, anoniblue, APPLE MUSIC, ardor_jk, BamShares, Bangtan Basement, Bangtan_hotline, Binne haro, BRILLIANT, BTS Live Archive, ʙᴛꜱ ᴠɪʀᴀʟ ʏᴛ ꜱʜᴏʀᴛꜱ, Calvin Klein, chimmylife, Choi's Lab, Dazed, DISNEY+, elisssa, Emy chou, enashiteru, FW Shorts, HEADLINER, HIJK, iHeartRadio, JAEGUCHI, JUNGKOOKIE, K-Pop ON! Spotify, kartikey, KKR BTS ARMY, Kpop Live, Nita Sreng, oricon -Japanese entertainment news, Purple Family, rauhlren, S w e e t h . v, SPARROW ( 띤짜아웅 ), TaeBearMD, tannies_lover7, Veautiful_VK, Vogue India, VOGUE KOREA, ymluvr, 먹쨍, 비몽, 아기 (mandarinpeach), ヨひチ; Web: Disney+, Vogue Man Hong Kong

ARMY Project 529 Volunteers

Research Team: Angel (TikTok: Lilangel2828), Leslie Day (TikTok: Leslie Day), Merry (TikTok: merryj67), Sam T (TikTok: samt_26), Shelley (TikTok: shels167), Trudy (TikTok: theeducationmommy), Viv (TikTok: VivEliz); Video Team: Leslie Day (TikTok: Leslie Day), Namz (TikTok: Namz07)

Join us LIVE every Sunday evening at 8pm ET for #the529live, a wrap up of each week's “Monday Muster”, thoughtful discussions, and tons of laughter! And catch us on TikTok each Wednesday night at 9pm ET for #the529tea, when we talk Bangtan news and dish about any TEA that might be happening on Kim Namjoon’s internet. 

Sunday’s LIVE is hosted on ARMY Project 529’s YouTube channel: @ARMYProject529 while Wednesday’s LIVE is on our project TikTok:  @ARMYProject529.

Intention.

I can’t define what a pop star is, but I think it’s just enjoying the stage and the music itself.

December of 2022 brought with it the military enlistment of BTS’ oldest member, Jin, and an official temporary halt to all of the group’s activities. Six months earlier, at their annual FESTA livestream, they’d told ARMY they would be pausing as a group to pursue individual projects for awhile, and also to reset their focus for the future of BTS. After living and working together nonstop for just about ten years, they needed a break.

Emotions were heightened in the room, with some of the members even finding themselves in tears while they explained their feelings. Jung Kook, ever practical, simply asked ARMY to understand and give their blessing. “Everyone has their own timeline,” he explained. “The timing should have come to us earlier…but we have to do it now. We promise we will return someday, even more mature than we are now.”

As he spoke, the other members all praised him and exclaimed “Jung Kook is all grown up! He’s so wise now!” Over the next six months, the members were busy—both recording group content to be released later, and working on various solo endeavors. JK himself recorded the song “Dreamers” for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and traveled to Qatar to perform at the Opening Ceremony.

But after Jin enlisted later that year, despite his earlier brave face and confident words, JK found himself adrift—without BTS and without purpose. He knew he needed to work on the solo album he wanted to release before his own military enlistment, but first he took a well-deserved break, getting to spend some quality time in his first solo home with his doberman, Bam, who he’d adopted in 2021. As 2023 began, Jung Kook fell into a pattern of what he later referred to as “doing nothing”, during which he started going LIVE on Weverse from his house (without permission from the company) whenever he wanted—sometimes just hanging out with ARMY for hours at a time, singing, cooking, cleaning. Often, he’d have some drinks, do karaoke, and get really sentimental. We loved getting to spend this time with JK, but there were moments when he seemed unsure, like he didn’t have a direction in which to point himself.

After a few months, once we saw the release of both Jimin and SUGA’s solo albums, and j-hope enlisted, ARMY began to wonder… was Jung Kook working on a solo album, or had his plans changed since that FESTA dinner the previous summer? Luckily, it wouldn’t be too much longer before we got our answer. In July, he dropped his official debut solo single, “Seven (feat. Latto)” and began his months-long takeover of the global pop charts. It was a cultural moment all on its own, but also served as an appetizer to the upcoming main course.

This week we’ll begin our exploration of Jung Kook’s Golden, a solo debut that was both years in the making and the result of several last-minute “trusting your gut” decisions. We’ll see how JK’s constant desire to prove and challenge himself led to him exploding onto the western pop scene with an album completely sung in English, and a brand-new attitude and look to go along with it.

Playlists & Lyrics

• JUNG KOOK: GOLDEN ALBUM SPOTIFY PLAYLIST

• JUNG KOOK: GOLDEN ALBUM LYRIC TRANSLATION

• ARMY PROJECT 529 WEEK 71 VIDEO PLAYLIST 
  

Skip to Content: Day One | Day Two | Day Three | Day Four | Day Five

DAY ONE:

On September 23, 2023, Jung Kook performed at the Global Citizen’s Festival in New York City, an event that aimed to drive urgent awareness and action to end extreme global poverty. It rained almost the entire day, which seems to be something of a tradition now whenever JK visits New York. He sang several songs, including his hit single “Seven” (more on that later), which featured a surprise drop in from Latto, his collaborator on the song. It was not only their first time performing together, but also their first time meeting in person. 

Despite the rain, and some obvious sound issues, Jung Kook’s set was amazing. The audience (which was full of ARMY) was thrilled to see him no matter what. And as he wrapped and left the stage, behind-the-scenes cameras followed him as he immediately started reviewing his performance to himself. Suddenly, he perked up as he heard a bit of familiar music play, and a roar of excitement from the crowd he’d just said goodbye to.

“Oh yeah!” he laughed. “3D!” He held up three fingers to the camera, his signature bunny smile on full display, clearly pleased with himself.

What had played was a small teaser for Jung Kook’s second solo single, “3D (feat. Jack Harlow)”. It had only lasted a few seconds, but it was enough for fans to lose their minds. When the song dropped a week later, on September 29th, the insanity increased. And then, after another two days, when Jung Kook’s first solo album, Golden was announced—utter calamity.

After “Seven (feat. Latto)”, ARMY didn’t know what to expect next from Jung Kook, but it was safe to say it was going to be devastating. And it was. “3D (feat. Jack Harlow)” is a track that is immediately, from the very first notes, reminiscent of the pop sound of the early 2000s—like something we might have heard once upon a time from *NSync or the Backstreet Boys. (How fitting that a remix was later released featuring Justin Timberlake.) The song is from the perspective of someone in a new relationship, who wants to take it to the next level.

So if you're ready (So if you're ready)

And if you'll let me (And if you'll let me)

I wanna see it in motion

In 3D (Uh-uh)

Jung Kook seemed even more confident than he had during his promotions for “Seven (feat. Latto)”, which should have been impossible. But it wasn’t. He, and American rapper Jack Harlow, deliver lyrics that are bold and brash to the girl they want, saying they’re ready for it to be physical—in ‘3D’—but in the same breath, they’re also asking for consent (“So if you’re ready”). Which is perhaps the sexiest thing about the entire song, if you ask me. And considering that the M/V features a shirtless Jung Kook singing about “champagne confetti” and getting wet after taking a sledgehammer to a fire hydrant… that’s really saying something.

"3D (feat. Jack Harlow)” Official M/V

1. "3D" | HERO FILM 01 (0:35)

2. "3D" | HERO FILM 02 (0:32)

3. BONUS: "3D" (FEAT. JACK HARLOW) | JACKET SHOOT SKETCH (5:48)

4. "3D" (FEAT. JACK HARLOW) | OFFICIAL TEASER (0:31)

5. "3D" (FEAT. JACK HARLOW) | OFFICIAL M/V (3:51 - as shown)

6. BONUS: "3D" (FEAT. JACK HARLOW) | M/V SHOOT SKETCH (11:33)

7. "3D" (FEAT. JACK HARLOW) | OFFICIAL PERFORMANCE VIDEO (4:22 - as shown)

8. "3D" (FEAT. JACK HARLOW) | DANCE PRACTICE (2:53)

9. "3D" (FEAT. JACK HARLOW) | MUSIC BANK (3:06 - as shown)

10. "3D" (FEAT. JACK HARLOW) JUNG KOOK FACECAM | MUSIC BANK (3:29)

11. "3D" (FEAT. JACK HARLOW) PROMOTIONS SKETCH (13:47)

12. "3D" (FEAT. JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE) REMIX | COLOR CODED LYRICS (2:41)

13. MOTION IN "3D" | DANCE CHALLENGE (0:34)

14. YOU KNOW HOW I LIKE IT 💜 | DANCE CHALLENGE (0:32)

15. JUNG KOOK CHATS "3D" & WORKING WITH JACK HARLOW WHILE BUILDING A 3D BUNNY | SIRIUSXM (5:40)

16. BONUS: "3D" | ALTERNATE VER. (2:43)

17. BONUS: "3D" | A. G. COOK REMIX VISUALIZER (3:09)

18. BONUS: "3D" | CLEAN VER. VISUALIZER (3:20)

19. BONUS: "3D" | SPED UP VISUALIZER (2:50)

20. BONUS: "3D" | SLOWED DOWN VISUALIZER (3:58)

21. BONUS: "3D" | MK REMIX VISUALIZER (3:07)

"3D" (FEAT. JACK HARLOW) | OFFICIAL PERFORMANCE VIDEO

"3D" (FEAT. JACK HARLOW) | MUSIC BANK

Fun Fact:

Yes, he’s good at film-making too…

Over the years, Jung Kook has shown interest in a lot of hobbies/activities. And we’ve seen him have a natural talent for just about anything he picks up and tries his hand at—drawing, painting, any type of sport, etc. While he’s quick to pick up new skills, he’s also quick to lose interest and move on to something else as well.

However, one of the things he took interest in over the years seemed to stick with him more than anything else: film-making and editing. And, as with most things JK puts even a little bit of effort into—he’s good at it.

After filming and editing several little things for fun, and showing them off, the other members and their company encouraged Jung Kook to do something with his films if he wanted to. They could tell that he enjoyed it, and that he was proud of his results.

And thus was born “Golden Closet Films”, a name coined after Jung Kook’s own nickname within BTS, and also for the literal closet-sized room in which he did all of his editing at Big Hit. JK has produced a handful of films over the years since 2017, pretty much all of them filmed during trips with the other members or during promotional activities. We have them all collected below—enjoy!

1. 171108 G.C.F IN TOKYO (JUNG KOOK & JIMIN) (3:43)

2. WHEN JUNGKOOK POSTED HIS FIRST G.C.F VIDEO WITH JIMIN (0:33)

3. 180430 G.C.F IN OSAKA (4:06)

4. 180716 G.C.F IN USA (3:12)

5. 180725 G.C.F IN SAIPAN (2:44)

6. 181001 G.C.F IN NEWARK VHS VER. (16:09)

7. 181202 G.C.F 3J @2018 MMA PRACTICE (1:33)

8. 191227 G.C.F IN HELSINKI (3:18)

9. 231120 G.C.F IN BUDAPEST (5:00)

Jump to Comments

DAY TWO:

Have you ever found yourself saying the phrase, “I didn’t know I needed this until I got it”? Of course you have, right? We ALL have at least once or twice. It’s essentially saying “I had no idea I would like this so much until I experienced it.” Maybe it’s about a different ice cream flavor you tried, or a new skin care product that leaves you feeling amazing. Something you were unsure about trying, but once you did, it became essential to your life.

Or… maybe you’re me, and it was about a certain track on Jung Kook’s solo album Golden—or more specifically—about a very specific performance of that certain track… like the live performance he gave of “Closer to You (feat. Major Lazer)” during his appearance on Audacy.

The first time I listened to Golden all the way through, I really liked the song, which appeared second on the album, but it wasn’t until I saw Jung Kook perform it that I realized I needed it like I need oxygen to live. Hyperbole? Maybe. But also, maybe not.

The song, which features American dance music and DJ trio Major Lazer, combines a steady, pulsing bass line with intricate house beats (and choreography) that give the listener a feeling of being constantly moving toward something… or someone. The lyrics are a fast-paced plea asking for more—a stronger connection and utter devotion.

Feeling like I'm floating

Something's in the air tonight

We're speaking with emotions

Won't look away

Love me at my lowest

I'll love you when you're barely holding on

Lighting up the darkness

I can be a shoulder when you're not strong

In the Audacy Live performance, Jung Kook continuously stalks toward the camera and maintains eye contact. He uses his vocal to further build up the intensity, going from a breathy whisper up to full tones that sound demanding. We see that he’s following a girl, and when he catches up to her, the way he circles around her as he sings—it’s almost like a predator stalking its prey. It’s chilling, yet also incredibly sexy. It feels all or nothing in the way a young relationship often can.

While Jung Kook didn’t contribute to the writing of the lyrics, he selected the song for the album, so they clearly spoke to him when he heard them. This genre and the way he used his voice for it was definitely something new for Jung Kook, who had said that with Golden, he wanted to challenge himself and show the world a more mature side to him.

I think we can all agree that he succeeded.

"CLOSER TO YOU" (FEAT. MAJOR LAZER) | AUDACY LIVE CLIP

1. JUNG KOOK: THE BRAND (0:50)

2. JUNG KOOK'S Q&A FOR SOLO ALBUM GOLDEN | KOREA NOW (15:45)

3. GOLDEN PREVIEW (3:23)

4. GOLDEN PREVIEW BEHIND THE SCENES (0:44)

5. GOLDEN JACKET SHOOT SKETCH (5:49)

6. GOLDEN (US EXCLUSIVE) UNBOXING VIDEO WITH JUNG KOOK (1:01)

7. "CLOSER TO YOU" (FEAT. MAJOR LAZER) | LYRICS (2:52)

8. "CLOSER TO YOU" (FEAT. MAJOR LAZER) | AUDACY LIVE CLIP (3:19 - as shown)

9. "CLOSER TO YOU" JK FOCUS FANCAM | GOLDEN LIVE ON STAGE (2:39)

10. "CLOSER TO YOU" FANCAM | GOLDEN LIVE ON STAGE (2:42)

11. BONUS: AUDACY LIVE: JUNG KOOK (14:11)

12. BONUS: JUNG KOOK: LIVE AT AUDACY (13:32)

Bangtan Bubble: What do you think is Jung Kook’s most ‘golden’ trait?

Let us know your answer in the comments below or on social media (include #BangtanBubble)!

Jump to Comments

DAY THREE:

The third track on Golden was released several months before anyone even knew that an album was also being created. I’m talking, of course, about Jung Kook’s debut solo single, “Seven (feat. Latto)”.

When the single’s upcoming release was announced at the end of June 2023, ARMY went wild over the name of the song. Seven being an incredibly auspicious number, for obvious reasons. It’s so special, in fact, that the members all got friendship tattoos of a “7” over the summer of 2022 to show that they would always be connected to each other, no matter what. (They each have their tattoos in a different place—JK’s is located on his neck, just behind his left ear.)

Given all of this knowledge, and previous evidence of his sentimental songwriting, fans immediately speculated that “Seven” was going to be a sweet song about Jung Kook’s love for his fellow members and ARMY, and maybe about how they’d always “be seven” even though they had to take this time apart for their solos and military service. Heartstrings were pulled and tears were shed. After American rapper Latto (who is well-known for her… suggestive lyrics) was announced as the feature, and we learned that JK had not written the song himself, ARMY paused and said, “Hmmm… that’s interesting”, but still thought we were about to get a sappy tribute song. We continued to bury our heads in the sand even after being inundated with several rounds of shirtless (SHIRTLESS?! Where were those BT21 “Artist Protection” stickers now?!) promotional photos.

Nope. Our Jungkookie was about to give us another amazing fan song to hold near and dear to our hearts while BTS was away in the military. Something we could play when we were crying and missing them. Something that truly celebrated the legacy of the seven. We couldn’t wait.

And we couldn’t have been MORE wrong.

“Seven (feat. Latto)” dropped on July 14, 2023, and collectively, so did the jaws of ARMYs all around the world. Instead of a sappy fan song about the seven members of BTS, what we got was a catchy summer bop in which Jeon Jung Kook informed us that he wanted to love us right “every minute, every hour—SEVEN DAYS A WEEK”. The M/V, featuring Korean actress Han So Hee, showed JK trying to convince her of his devotion despite a series of escalting disasters happening around them. Nothing, not even potential death, would keep Jung Kook from making good on his promise to his love. And what exactly was that promise? Well…

“Did he… did he mean… because it sounded like he means…?”

Cue “Seven (feat. Latto) - Explicit Version”.

“Oh yeah. That’s what he meant.”

Now cue ARMYs everywhere kicking their feet and screaming into pillows.

Are you complaining? Because I’m sure as fuck not.

"SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | OFFICIAL M/V

1. "SEVEN" CAMPAIGN SHORT FILM (0:18)

2. "SEVEN" CAMPAIGN BEHIND-THE-SCENES FILM (0:55)

3. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | OFFICIAL TEASER (0:25)

4. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | OFFICIAL M/V (3:47 - as shown)

5. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | M/V BEHIND SHORT FILM (0:16)

6. EPISODE: JUNG KOOK "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) MV SHOOT SKETCH (12:47 - as shown)

7. 7️⃣ DAYS A WEEK LISTENING "SEVEN" ON REPEAT❤️‍🔥 WHO'S JOINING US? AND THERE ARE MORE TO COME 👀🇬🇧 (0:23)

8. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | OFFICIAL PERFORMANCE VIDEO TEASER (1:00)

9. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | OFFICIAL PERFORMANCE VIDEO (3:25 - as shown)

10. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | PERFORMANCE VIDEO BEHIND (10:21)

11. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | IHEARTRADIO LIVE (3:07)

12. "SEVEN" RECORDING FILM PREVIEW (0:48)

13. BONUS: "SEVEN" RECORDING FILM (16:00)

14. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | DANCE PRACTICE TEASER (1:01)

15. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | DANCE PRACTICE (3:14 - as shown)

16. BONUS: "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | DANCE PRACTICE BEHIND (11:17)

17. BONUS: "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | SUMMER MIX VISUALIZER (3:22)

18. BONUS: "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | FESTIVAL MIX VISUALIZER (2:59)

19. BONUS: "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | ISLAND MIX VISUALIZER (3:05)

20. BONUS: "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | NIGHTFALL MIX VISUALIZER (2:58)

"SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | OFFICIAL PERFORMANCE VIDEO

EPISODE: JUNG KOOK "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) MV SHOOT SKETCH

“Seven (feat. Latto)” Dance Practice

Fun Fact

Just let the man eat and sing.

When he was asked why he decided to create his YouTube chat show “Suchwita”, SUGA said the main reason was that he knew all of his fellow members were going to be releasing solo music, and he wanted to create a place where they could come and talk about it comfortably.

I’m fine. You’re fine. We’re NOT crying about this!

And so, all of the members did come on one by one—either taped before they entered the military and released later, or taped and released as their music was coming out. Each had their own episode… except for one, who managed to score himself two. Guess who that was…

Whether it was more because of his weird release schedule, or just maknae privileges, Jung Kook got to be on “Suchwita” twice, and both appearances were as chaotic as you’d expect.

Who can forget that first episode that included not only a million dollar shot of JK’s abs, but also him grilling and eating meat like he’d never be fed again, AND a karaoke session? It lasted so long SUGA eventually went home—leaving Jung Kook and the staff to their own devices.

And during his second appearance, after the release of Golden, we got to see a wayward V (who’d found out about the taping through the band’s group chat) show up and join in, seemingly there just for the vibes and a free meal.

Both episodes are amazingly crazy and fun, and so very Jung Kook.

1. SUCHWITA | EP.15 SUGA WITH JUNG KOOK (38:49)

2. JUNG KOOK NORAEBANG CLIP | SUCHWITA EP.15 (15:33)

3. JEON JUNG KOOK? YOU! YOU'RE👍 SUCH A WONDERFUL FRIEND | SUCHWITA EP.15 (0:51)

4. AFTER SUGA GOT HOME FROM WORK... (FULL OF KONO SENSIBILITY) 🎤🎶 | SUCHWITA EP.15 (1:00)

5. BEEKEEPER SUGAR X JUNG KOOK COLLECTION | SUCHWITA EP.15 (0:56)

6. SUCHWITA EP.21 SUGA WITH JUNG KOOK | TEASER (1:03)

7. EP.21 SUGA WITH JUNG KOOK II | SUCHWITA EP.21 (36:38)

8. LEGENDARY 3:37🗣️I'LL💜😉 TEASE YOU ONE LAST TIME | SUCHWITA EP.21 (0:50)

9. I'M GOING TO SPRINKLE THE WHOLE UNIVERSE🌏! 💜| SUCHWITA EP.21 (0:56)

Jump to Comments

DAY FOUR:

"Seven (feat. Latto)” in the Live Lounge

As we were still trying to recover from the lyrics of “Seven (feat. Latto)”, Jung Kook embarked on promotional activities for the song—his first time ever doing them solo.

The song was in English, featured an up and coming American rapper, and had extremely mature lyrics. It was clearly meant for a very targeted audience—an arrow aimed directly at the western music market. Jung Kook went in hard promoting in the west, making appearances in both the United States and the U.K.

When these performances started happening, ARMY immediately recognized one of the dancers by JK’s side: well-known American choreographer/dancer Brian Puspos. Jung Kook has been a fan of his since BTS’ early years (see him and Jimin practicing Puspos’ ‘Own It’ choreograpy all the way back in 2016), and the group had actually worked with him several times over the course of their career. He created the choreographies for three of their songs—”Butterfly”, Jimin’s solo “Serendipity”, and “Butter”. Now, someone that Jung Kook had spent years admiring, was a fan of his, and supporting him as a backup dancer.

Jung Kook also promoted at home in South Korea, making his Music Show solo debut on “Inkigayo”, where he claimed the top spot (much to his surprise). Fellow BTS member V came out to support him, giving ARMYs in the audience a special treat when he joined JK out on stage for a brief moment to perform a little bit of the “Seven” choreography with him.

Throughout all his performances, it was clear Jung Kook was determined to always give 110%. He said later, in an interview during promotions for Golden that he wanted to show the best of himself with his music and to push himself further than he ever had before. And with a song like “Seven”, it seemed like his dedication would pay off.

The song charted on the Billboard Hot 100 for 13 weeks. It debuted at #1 and remained there for 13 consecutive weeks, making Jung Kook the second Korean soloist in history to debut at #1. (The first being his fellow bandmate, Jimin.) Additionally, “Seven (feat. Latto)” was the first song of 2023 to debut atop the Billboard Global 200 and spend its first seven weeks at the top.

It became the song of the summer that year, playing everywhere including in American grocery stores. Suddenly, Jung Kook was becoming a bit of a household name, driving many new fans to YouTube and other streaming platforms asking, “Who is Jung Kook? Who is BTS?”

1. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | 2023 GLOBAL CITIZEN FESTIVAL (3:08)

2. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | GMA 2023 SUMMER CONCERT SERIES (3:32)

3. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | GMA BEHIND SHORT FILM (0:54)

4. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | GMA PRACTICE BEHIND SHORT FILM (0:38)

5. JUNG KOOK OF BTS TALKS OFFICIAL GLOBAL SOLO DEBUT SINGLE "SEVEN" L GMA (2:12)

6. "LET THERE BE LOVE" LIVE IN THE LOUNGE | BBC RADIO 1 (3:06)

7. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) LIVE IN THE LOUNGE | BBC RADIO 1 (3:13)

8. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | BBC RADIO 1 LIVE LOUNGE BEHIND SHORT FILM (0:56)

9. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | THE ONE SHOW TEASER (0:59)

10. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) LIVE FROM LONDON | BBC: THE ONE SHOW (3:01)

11. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | THE ONE SHOW BEHIND SHORT FILM (0:53)

12. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) STAGE CAM | BBC: THE ONE SHOW (3:14)

13. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | INKIGAYO (3:26 - as shown)

14. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) JUNG KOOK FULLCAM | INKIGAYO (3:29)

15. #SEVENDAYSAWEEK LISTENING AND DANCING (1:00)

16. CAN'T GET ENOUGH OF JUNG KOOK DANCING (0:20)

17. "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | CHALLENGE COMPILATION VIDEO (3:11)

18. BONUS: "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | PROMOTIONS SKETCH (16:26)

19. BONUS: "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | LOFI MIX VISUALIZER (3:22)

20. BONUS: "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | ALESSO REMIX VISUALIZER (2:48)

21. BONUS: "SEVEN" (FEAT. LATTO) | DAVID GUETTA REMIX VISUALIZER (2:38)

“Seven (feat.Latto)” Inkigayo Performance

Fun Fact:

The Global Citizen’s Festival.

We know that Jung Kook loves to perform and will do his best for his audience, no matter what. He was thrilled to be invited to take part in the Global Citizen’s Festival in September 2023, excited to give American ARMYs a performance that would hopefully make up for the chaos that had happened when he’d tried to perform a few months earlier during “Good Morning, America”’s summer concert series. That performance had been cancelled due to heavy storming, and he’d only been able to make due with taping the rehearsal time. It had been a source of disappointment for JK.

Unfortunately, Jung Kook apparently brings the rain with him when he travels to New York City, because it poured the entire day of the Global Citizen’s Festival as well. This time however, his performance went on as planned, and he gave it everything he had, singing some deep cut fan favorites like “Euphoria” and “Still With You” along with his more commercially recognized “Seven (feat. Latto)” and BTS’ “Dynamite”, “Butter” and “Permission to Dance”.

The crowd loved every moment of it, and it was clear that JK had a great time in spite of the weather and sound issues. He got to meet and perform with Latto in person (finally), and also premiered his new single, “3D (feat. Jack Harlow) at the end of his set. All in all, it was another brilliant step in Jung Kook continuing to assert himself as an important figure in the world of global mainstream pop music.

1. JUNG KOOK 2023 GLOBAL CITIZEN FESTIVAL | FULL CONCERT (21:23)

2. "EUPHORIA" | 2023 GLOBAL CITIZEN FESTIVAL (3:38)

3. "STILL WITH YOU" FANCAM | 2023 GLOBAL CITIZEN FESTIVAL (3:52)

4. "STILL WITH YOU" REHEARSAL FANCAM | 2023 GLOBAL CITIZEN FESTIVAL (2:21)

5. JUNG KOOK AND LATTO PERFORM "SEVEN" | 2023 GLOBAL CITIZEN FESTIVAL (3:08)

6. JUNG KOOK ADDRESSES A CROWD OF ACTION-TAKING GLOBAL CITIZENS | 2023 GLOBAL CITIZEN FESTIVAL (0:44)

7. "PERMISSION TO DANCE" FANCAM | 2023 GLOBAL CITIZEN FESTIVAL (1:39)

8. "DYNAMITE" | 2023 GLOBAL CITIZEN FESTIVAL (2:34)

9. "BUTTER" | 2023 GLOBAL CITIZEN FESTIVAL (2:11)

Jump to Comments

DAY FIVE:

Do you ever find yourself walking into a room and immediately forgetting why you went in there in the first place? It happens to me all the time. You catch yourself thinking, “Now what was I doing?” or “What was I looking for?” Every day tasks and details sometimes slip our minds, but then we can recall certain memories from our past with complete clarity. For instance, I still remember exactly what I was doing (sleeping late in bed, enjoying the very last bit of summer vacation) when my mom burst into my bedroom on September 1st, 1997 to tell me that Princess Diana had been killed in a car crash the night before. (Incidentally, this also happens to have been the day that Jeon Jung Kook was born, thousands of miles away in Busan, South Korea.)

Likewise, I’ll never forget the moment, 26 years later, when Jung Kook’s Golden album released and I heard its title track, “Standing Next to You” for the very first time. Because I’m not exaggerating when I say that song changed me, and my entire outlook on JK as an artist.

I was sitting in my bed (it was midnight after all), with YouTube pulled up on my laptop, watching the premier of the music video. And as soon as I heard the first funky notes and saw JK prowling toward the camera with his full sleeve of tattoos out for, I knew my mind was about to be blown.

Standing next to you

Standing in the fire next to you, oh

You know it's deeper than the rain

It's deeper than the pain

When it's deep like DNA

Something they can't take away, ayy

Take-take-take-take-take-take off

Jung Kook said in an interview that as soon as he heard “Standing Next to You” he could immediately picture himself performing it on stage. And he wanted to. Badly. Luckily for us, we have that moment captured on video as it happened while he was in Los Angeles to record “Seven (feat. Latto)”. During a break, producer Andrew Watt said, “Hey, I’ve got this song I think would be perfect for you. Do you want to hear it?” And from the slow smile that spread across his face as soon as the music began, it was clear Jung Kook knew this song would be life-changing for him as well.

“Standing Next to You” sounds like it belongs in a movie. The instrumentation alone, with all the horns and the funky bass line, is worth the price of admission. But then the music video feels like a mashup of “Goodfellas” meets Baz Luhrman’s “Romeo + Juliet”. The choreography is INSANE, with several nods to the late, great Michael Jackson. And through it all, the video, the live performances, the remix he recorded and filmed with legendary R&B star Usher—Jung Kook looked at us through the camera with a singular focus—as if to say “Forget any other music you thought you liked before this. Look at me. I’m your Captain now.”

And the only logical response to that is: “Aye aye, Captain”.

1. "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" | OFFICIAL TEASER (0:33)

2. "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" | OFFICIAL M/V (3:47 - as shown)

3. BONUS: "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" | M/V SHOOT SKETCH (13:40)

4. "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" | THE TONIGHT SHOW (3:58)

5. BONUS: BTS' JUNG KOOK TALKS NEW SINGLE GOING PLATINUM AND TEACHES JIMMY HIS "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" DANCE | THE TONIGHT SHOW (13:27 - as shown)

6. "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" | IHEARTRADIO LIVE (3:29)

7. "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" CHOREOGRAPHY VER. | OFFICIAL M/V (3:32)

8. "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" | DANCE PRACTICE (3:31)

9. "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" | OFFICIAL LYRIC VIDEO (3:27)

10. "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" | M!COUNTDOWN (4:02 - as shown)

11. BONUS: "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" HORIZONTAL VER FANCAM | M!COUNTDOWN (3:42)

12. "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" | STAGE MIX (3:35 - as shown)

13. "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" USHER REMIX | OFFICIAL PERFORMANCE VIDEO TEASER (0:35)

14. "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" USHER REMIX | OFFICIAL PERFORMANCE VIDEO (3:50 - as shown)

15. "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" USHER REMIX | PERFORMANCE VIDEO BEHIND (0:55)

16. JUNG KOOK, USHER - "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" (USHER REMIX) | BEHIND THE SCENES (2:37)

17. JUNG KOOK X USHER🔥 POM-MI-CHUT-DA🤯 | DANCE CHALLENGE (0:46)

18. PEACE UP✌️, A-TOWN DOWN😎 USHER IN DA HOUSE (0:51)

19. BONUS: "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" - USHER REMIX OFFICIAL PERFORMANCE VIDEO SKETCH (10:14)

20. BONUS: "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" PROMOTIONS SKETCH (20:42)

21. BONUS: JUNG KOOK MUSIC SHOW PROMOTIONS SKETCH (12:35)

22. BONUS: THE BEST OF BTS’ JUNG KOOK | THE TONIGHT SHOW STARRING JIMMY FALLON (23:53)

23. BONUS: "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" | FUTURE FUNK REMIX VISUALIZER (3:22)

24. BONUS: "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" | SLOW JAM REMIX VISUALIZER (3:20)

25. BONUS: "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" | HOLIDAY REMIX VISUALIZER (3:14)

"Standing Next to You" Official M/V

BTS' JUNG KOOK TALKS NEW SINGLE GOING PLATINUM AND TEACHES JIMMY HIS "STANDING NEXT TO YOU" DANCE | THE TONIGHT SHOW

"Standing Next to You” M!Countdown

"STANDING NEXT TO YOU" | STAGE MIX

"STANDING NEXT TO YOU" USHER REMIX | OFFICIAL PERFORMANCE VIDEO

Bangtan Bubble: What was your first thought about “Standing Next to You”?

Let us know your answer in the comments below or on social media (include #BangtanBubble)!

Jump to Comments

FINAL THOUGHTS:

Before Golden’s release, I’ll admit I was apprehensive over how I might feel about the album. While I had enjoyed “Seven (feat. Latto)” and “3D (feat. Jack Harlow)” well enough, pop has never been my go-to music genre. When I found out the upcoming album was to be all in English, put together by western producers, and that Jung Kook hadn’t contributed lyrics to any of the tracks, I worried about whether or not I would be able to connect to the songs. I knew I would support Golden no matter what, but would I love it?

The answer is “YES.” Of course I loved it. And not only did I love it, but I was floored by just how versatile the album was and how intentionally Jung Kook had arranged it, despite not being one of the songwriters. “I want to be a singer who can pull off various genres,” he said in his Q&A with reporters during the album’s promotions. “I want to make music that only I can make.”

And so he did. We’ll return next week to explore the rest of Golden and everything that happened during his time in the military. (He’s almost back!) See you then…

Side Quest

He’s our boyfriend now.

So, there are parasocial relationships, and then there’s… whatever the fuck Jeon Jung Kook was carrying on with ARMY during all of his Weverse LIVEs in 2023.

After a period of boredom and listlessness in which Jung Kook sat on his butt at home by himself for a few weeks doing a whole lot of nothing—missing his band members and missing talking to ARMY—he decided to take matters into his own hands. Instead of waiting for a scheduled time when he would be at HYBE, JK started going LIVE on Weverse when he was at home… whenever the fuck he wanted.

Which turned out to be… kind of often. And for hours at a time. Suddenly, Jung Kook was in ARMYs’ faces more often than not (no one was complaining)—singing karaoke, cooking meals, folding laundry, or vacuuming his house at 2 AM. Basically, he was just hanging out with us.

During these marathon LIVEs, we got to know a lot more about this new, more adult version of JK. He was still sweet and funny, but there was a new flirty edge to him now. He challenged fans in the comments who said they wanted to date him, asking, “Do you feel confident you could handle me? I’m not an easy person.” And let’s not forget the times he took ARMY to bed with him, one time half-dressed and teasing us with what was under his blankets, and the other sweetly mumbling to us until he fell asleep and softly snored for another 40 minutes before someone pulled the plug on the LIVE for him.

We all grew a lot closer to JK throughout those live streams and I know that they were what I found myself missing the most about him after he enlisted. I think we all hope we’ll see a return to them once he’s back.

230202 HA HA HA HA HA HA | WE-LIVE

230612 AM GOING TO GO SLEEP | WE-LIVE

231004 HI | WE-LIVE

241218 MISSED YOU A LOT | WE-LIVE

1. 230202 ~HOW ARE YOU~ HAVE YOU BEEN WELL | WE-LIVE (1:53:11)

2. 230202 FULL - V, JUNGKOOK | IG-LIVE (19:29)

3. 230202 HA HA HA HA HA HA | WE-LIVE (1:37:46 - as shown)

4. 230203 WAITING FOR CHICKEN ~WAITING FOR CHICKEN~ | WE-LIVE (7:31)

5. 230203 ㅋㅋㅋ (DELETED) | WE-LIVE (1:02:26)

6. 230211 I'M TIRED ~힘들다~ | WE-LIVE (0:20)

7. 230211 I'M TIREEED ~HARD~ | WE-LIVE (31:27)

8. 230228 ? | WE-LIVE (28:27)

9. 230303 HOLD ON ~잠깐~ | WE-LIVE (2:20:31)

10. 230308 JUNG KOOK 1ST (AND LAST) TT LIVE (1:34)

11. 230314 :| | WE-LIVE (49:39)

12. 230314 2 | WE-LIVE (1:13:17)

13. 230314 3 | WE-LIVE (46:21)

14. 230314 BYE ~안녕~ | WE-LIVE (5:23)

15. 30324 I'M HUNGRY... FIRST MEAL... FRIDAY (TGIF) | WE-LIVE (48:51)

16. 230328 SUCHWITA | WE-LIVE (1:36:47)

17. 230408 HAH | WE-LIVE (12:21)

18. 230408 HELLO - J-HOPE, V, JUNG KOOK | WE-LIVE (2:12)

19. 230425 DON'T BE SICK AND I HOPE YOU HAVE A COMFORTABLE DAY | WE-LIVE (1:29:15)

20. 230524 KNOCK KNOCK | WE-LIVE (1:02:29)

21. 230605 HUH | WE-LIVE (1:45:18)

22. 230612 AM GOING TO GO SLEEP | WE-LIVE (45:37 - as shown)

23. 230629 HOOHOOHOO... | WE-LIVE (1:50:04)

24. 230705 97 | WE-LIVE (1:54)

25. 230714 SEVEN DAYS A WEEK | WE-LIVE (17:24)

26. 230718 7DAYMMMMMMN | WE-LIVE (18:58)

27. 230722ᄁ | WE-LIVE (1:06:54)

28. 230726 - OH, YOU'RE HERE? (2:27:43)

29. 230728 HELLO | WE-LIVE (2:58)

30. 230728 SORRY | WE-LIVE (4:42)

31. 230728 ?? | WE-LIVE (25:23)

32. 230730 OH, OKAY ~ | WE-LIVE (55:13)

33. 230730 WHO IS IT? HURRY UP AND COME OUT | WE-LIVE (33:53)

34. 230803 I'M SLEEPY | WE-LIVE (43:19)

35. 230804 HA... | WE-LIVE (2:21:30)

36. 230805  JUNG KOOK 2ND TT LIVE (1:37)

37. 230806  JUNG KOOK 3RD TT LIVE (7:36)

38. 230831 ㅎ... | WE-LIVE (8:57)

39. 230924 3D | WE-LIVE (13:24)

40. 231004 HI | WE-LIVE (1:24:14 - as shown)

41. 231103 GOLDEN | WE-LIVE (53:02)

42. 231116 I'M PRACTICING LIVE | WE-LIVE (8:48)

43. 231208 YO 여 | WE-LIVE (1:30:17)

44. 231205 I'LL BE BACK SAFELY! - RM, JIMIN, V, JUNG KOOK | WE-LIVE (38:00)

45. 231211 I'LL COME BACK SAFELY | WE-LIVE (7:49)

46. 241218 MISSED YOU A LOT | WE-LIVE (2:24:17 - as shown)

CREDITS:

YouTube/Web

BANGTANTV, HYBE LABELS, AUDACY MUSIC, BBC, BBC Radio 1, Brilliant, BTS ARMY BOY♡, BTS LIVE ARCHIVE, ENJOY BTS MORE, girl bye, Global Citizen, GMA, HEADLINER, HYBE AREA, JAEGUCHI, Japduckee, KBS Kpop, KBS WORLD TV, KOREA NOW, M2, MNET KPOP, SBSKPOP X INKIGAYO, SiriusXM, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, theultimatedodo, USHER, Zaty Farhani, ARMY 💜 BTS💐, ⟭⟬BTS BORA WORLD⟬⟭; Web:

ARMY Project 529 Volunteers

Research Team: Angel (TikTok: Lilangel2828), Leslie Day (TikTok: Leslie Day), Merry (TikTok: merryj67), Sam T (TikTok: samt_26), Shelley (TikTok: shels167), Trudy (TikTok: theeducationmommy), Viv (TikTok: VivEliz); Video Team: Leslie Day (TikTok: Leslie Day), Namz (TikTok: Namz07)

Join us LIVE every Sunday evening at 8pm ET for #the529live, a wrap up of each week's “Monday Muster”, thoughtful discussions, and tons of laughter! And catch us on TikTok each Wednesday night at 9pm ET for #the529tea, when we talk Bangtan news and dish about any TEA that might be happening on Kim Namjoon’s internet. 

Sunday’s LIVE is hosted on ARMY Project 529’s YouTube channel: @ARMYProject529 while Wednesday’s LIVE is on our project TikTok:  @ARMYProject529.

Chrysalis.

When a caterpillar is finished growing, and has shed its last skin, it forms a chrysalis—a hard, protective outer layer—around itself in preparation for its transformation into a butterfly. In a metaphorical, or psychological sense, the “chrysalis stage” is when we realize our life is shifting… we’re growing, and maybe the old way of doing things isn’t working for us anymore. It’s a process of leaving our old self behind and moving forward toward a new “form”—for caterpillars it’s literally “growing up”. For us it’s more internal, but still a form of growth.

When BTS debuted, Jung Kook was 15. As the first few years of their career passed, he shed his skin over and over again, just like a caterpillar. 2017 was a year of monumental change for both BTS and their maknae. The group started making big waves internationally, growing their global influence, and fanbase. And though Jung Kook had come of age at 19, when he hit his 20th birthday in 2017, he finally became a fully-fledged adult in South Korea.

Over the next few years, Jung Kook would emerge more and more from his very own chrysalis. There were obvious physical changes—a sharpening jawline, growing muscles and a narrower waist, and eventually a myriad of very intriguing piercings and tattoos. (A moment of silence for his gone but not forgotten eyebrow piercing. RIP.) JK seemed intent upon experimenting and expressing himself through his appearance, in an almost devil-may-care manner. It felt like rebellion, but the most polite kind possible.

Aside from his appearance, Jung Kook was growing inside as well. Though he claims to not be very introspective, JK can be very sentimental. As his hyungs kept encouraging him to try his hand at songwriting, he inevitably turned to the biggest source of inspiration he had in his life—ARMY. When his pen hit paper, it was most often the fans he wrote about, like 2020’s “Still With You”, but sometimes he would reflect on his journey, who he was becoming, and who he had left behind.

The baby of BTS wasn’t a baby any longer…

Despite Jung Kook’s obvious maturation, some fans found it hard to let go of his boyhood image—something he found (and still finds to this day) incredibly frustrating. Songs like “My Time” and the (still as yet) unreleased “Decalcomania” explore the themes of longing to be truly known despite the trappings of fame.

This week we’ll follow Jung Kook as he leaves boyhood behind and discovers the kind of adult he wants to be. With his members always there guiding him, he navigates what it means to become your own person while still understanding and respecting the love of the people who raised you up in the first place.

Playlists & Lyrics

• JUNG KOOK: SINGLES AND COLLABS LYRIC TRANSLATION

• ARMY PROJECT 529 WEEK 70 VIDEO PLAYLIST 
  

Skip to Content: Day One | Day Two | Day Three | Day Four | Day Five

DAY ONE:

Depending on when you became ARMY, one of your first impressions of Jung Kook might have been seeing him strapped to a drone, soaring high above a screaming stadium audience and singing about how when he’s with us, he’s in “utopia”. 

“Euphoria”, the intro track on BTS’ 2018 album LOVE YOURSELF 結 'Answer', might very well be Jung Kook’s signature solo track within the group. We covered it in depth in Week 31 of the blog, but it was a big turning point for the young singer. He celebrated his 21st birthday shortly after the album’s release, and the themes of “Euphoria” struck JK deeply.

He was struggling keenly at the time with feeling lost in his transition from adolescence to adulthood. What was his place now in BTS? Would ARMY accept him exploring more adult themes and visuals?

“Euphoria” embodies his worries. The song sounds delicate and innocent, but progresses to a swell that legitimately feels like the first time you really fall in love as a young adult. The performances also showed a new depth of maturity in Jung Kook as he poured his heart out on stage (and over ARMY’s heads) at each concert stop on the “Love Yourself” tour.

"EUPHORIA": THEME OF LOVE YOURSELF: ANSWER

1. "BREATHE" (LEE HI COVER) | ORIGINAL POST (1:39)

2. "BREATHE" (LEE HI COVER) | LYRICS (2:12)

3. JUNG KOOK SINGS "BREATHE" (LEE HI COVER) | WE-LIVE (4:38)

4. BANGTAN BOMB: CAMERA DIRECTOR JUNG KOOK & V (0:51)

5. BANGTAN BOMB: GET BABY JK'S ATTENTION (1:01)

6. BANGTAN BOMB: TAKING A PHOTO CAREFULLY BY JK (1:32)

7. "ONLY THEN" (ROY KIM COVER) | LYRICS (4:08)

8. JUNG KOOK SINGS "ONLY THEN" (ROY KIM COVER) | VLIVE CLIP (1:34)

9. BANGTAN BOMB: JK & JIN'S EXERCISE TIME (4:11)

10. BANGTAN BOMB: JK'S SELF HAIR STYLING (1:33)

11. "EUPHORIA": THEME OF LOVE YOURSELF: ANSWER (8:53 - as shown)

12. BONUS: EPISODE: "EUPHORIA" : THEME OF LOVE YOURSELF: ANSWER SHOOTING (5:01)

13. "EUPHORIA" LIVE | JAPAN (4:32)

14. "EUPHORIA" PERFORMANCE | LYS TOUR - TOKYO DOME (3:59)

15. "EUPHORIA" | 2018 KBS SONG FESTIVAL (1:39)

16. "EUPHORIA" STAGE MIX | STAGE COMPILATION (4:01 - as shown)

17. JUNG KOOK REACTING TO "EUPHORIA" BEING PLAYED OVERHEAD AT KBS GAYO DAEJUN (1:01)

18. FLASH FOWARD: JUNG KOOK PERFORMS "EUPHORIA" | 2023 GLOBAL CITIZEN FESTIVAL (3:38)

19. BONUS: EXPLANATION OF THE UNOFFICIAL "EUPHORIA" FANCHANT (5:06)

20. BONUS: "EUPHORIA" | DJ SWIVEL FOREVER MIX (4:05)

21. BONUS: BANGTAN BOMB: BEHIND THE SCENES, RECORDING "EUPHORIA" | DJ SWIVEL FOREVER MIX (5:56)

22. BONUS: THE MAKING OF BTS' JUNG KOOK'S "EUPHORIA" WITH DJ SWIVEL | DECONSTRUCTED (12:21)

23. BONUS: BANGTAN BOMB: JK'S SURPRISE BIRTHDAY PARTY (7:34)

24. BONUS: BANGTAN BOMB: EXCUSES ABOUT DESTROYED JK'S SHIRT (2:26)

25. BONUS: "FAKE LOVE" (FEAT THE RIPPED SHIRT) | INKIGAYO (4:02)

26. BONUS: BANGTAN BOMB: JK IS TRYING NEW FILMING STUFF (1:52)

27. BONUS: "BLACK OR WHITE" DANCE - JIMIN AND JUNG KOOK | 2018 PROM PARTY (3:56)

28. BONUS: BANGTAN BOMB: BTS PROM PARTY : UNIT STAGE BEHIND - JIMIN & JUNG KOOK (9:36)

"EUPHORIA" STAGE MIX | STAGE COMPILATION

Fun Fact:

Let’s spend some time with 3J…

Even though BTS doesn’t make a big deal about member “positions” in their group any longer, they did debut with an “official” dance line. Originally it was j-hope, Jimin, and Jung Kook—the strongest dancers in the group. (V was added to the dance line in 2018 after his solo performance of “Singularity”, but for now we’re just going to be talking about the original three.)

They dubbed themselves “3J” and they were the members you were most likely to see front and center during heavy choreography moments, ensuring the audience’s attention was mostly focused on them. There have been a few 3J unit performances and special choreographies over the years, so we’ve collected them all—including practices and Bangtan Bombs—here for you here to enjoy.

1. 2013 DANCE PRACTICE BY J-HOPE & JIMIN & JUNG KOOK (1:40)

2. 2013 CHOREOGRAPHY: 3J DANCE BREAK PRACTICE (1:03)

3. 2015 KBS SONG FESTIVAL X BTS J-HOPE, JIMIN, JUNG KOOK | VLIVE (33:42)

4. 2017 BTS DANCE PERFORMANCE - 3J (JIMIN, J-HOPE, JUNG KOOK) (8:02)

5. 2017 BANGTAN BOMB: 613 BTS HOME PARTY PRACTICE - UNIT STAGE 3J (9:50)

6. 2018 BANGTAN BOMB: "IDOL" INTRO PERFORMANCE (3J FOCUS) | 2018 MMA (1:56)

7. 2018 G.C.F 3J | 2018 MMA PRACTICE (1:33)

8. 2020 BANGTAN BOMB: 3J UNIT PHOTO SHOOTING BEHIND (2:55)

9. 2020 BANGTAN BOMB: A BOISTEROUS SHOOTING OF 3J (4:01)

10. 2020 BANGTAN BOMB: CUTE AND ADORABLE 3J (1:34)

11. 2021 CHOREOGRAPHY: 3J "BUTTER (FEAT. MEGAN THEE STALLION)" SPECIAL PERFORMANCE VIDEO (1:09)

12. 2021 BANGTAN BOMB: THE 3J "BUTTER" CHOREOGRAPHY BEHIND THE SCENES (14:37)

13. BTS 3J DANCE UNIT COMPILATION (J-HOPE, JIMIN, JUNGKOOK) (9:50)

Jump to Comments

DAY TWO:

One of mine and Katie’s favorite pastimes is to slide into each other’s DMs with our random and ever-growing lists of songs or artists we want BTS to cover. And I’m not exaggerating when I say that probably seven times out of ten, it’s one of us saying “Dude, JK would totally kill a cover of this”, or “Wouldn’t it be amazing to hear JK and (insert other member) sing this together?”

The truth of the matter is that Jung Kook has such an incredibly pleasing voice to listen to. It’s easy to imagine his vocal tones on other artists’ songs. And part of the reason for that is that he has already given us so many dang covers over the years. Remember that promise he made to himself back at the beginning of BTS, when he found out he was to be the main vocalist? That promise was that he would no longer “practice” singing—rather, he would just sing all the time, whenever and wherever he could. Any hour of any day would be his training time.

And that included times when he went LIVE on VLive (and later Weverse) to hang out with ARMY. Jung Kook’s solo LIVEs more often than not turned into karaoke sessions, during which he’d sing both songs he liked, and songs suggested by fans in the chat. He also continued recording covers over the years as well, uploading them on SoundCloud and/or YouTube. We are very lucky to have so many from him.

Unfortunately, Jung Kook isn’t always as confident with his own songs, or rather, his own songwriting abilities. On September 1, 2019, his 22nd birthday, JK released a snippet of a demo song on Twitter (X) called “Decalcomania”. We only have one minute and 18 seconds, but it’s raw, haunting, and beautiful.

When I see you smile in the screen, you’re good at everything

You’re just perfect, it feels like I’ve never been you.

Do you even see me? Do you know who I am?

Or how do I look now, you don’t like me like that.

The term “decalcomania” is one used in art and design, and it has several meanings, but most of them involve the transfer of an image from one thing to another. Koreans, in particular, use decalcomania to describe people who look alike—mirror images. The lyrics show how afraid he was of growing into adulthood. It seems like he is talking both to himself, and also his fans. He worried constantly that ARMY would no longer love him or be able to relate to him—that they would only see him just as tiny “Jungkookie” forever. 

While we held out hope for many years that JK might one day finally decide to complete and release “Decalcomania” in full, he’s since told us that he has deleted all the files that contained any bit of the song. It seems that writing and recording just that little bit was enough for him to work through his feelings, and he didn’t want to explore it any further. 

Sigh. Look… I’m not mad, Jung Kook. I’m just disappointed.

BANGTAN BOMB: JK'S HEART (FOR ARMY♥)

1. "ENDING SCENE" (IU COVER) VER 1 | LYRICS (4:19)

2. "ENDING SCENE" (IU COVER) VER 2 | LYRICS (4:19)

3. BONUS: "ENDING SCENE" IU & JUNG KOOK MASHUP | COLOR CODED LYRICS (4:05)

4. JUNG KOOK SINGING "ENDING SCENE" (IU COVER) | VLIVE CLIP (1:47)

5. BANGTAN BOMB: CONCENTRATING ON DRAWING JK (5:07)

6. BANGTAN BOMB: BROKEN ENGLISH TIME! (0:39)

7. BANGTAN BOMB: CURIOUS BOY JK (0:48)

8. "ALL OF MY LIFE" (PARK WON COVER) | TWITTER POST (2:20)

9. "ALL OF MY LIFE" (PARK WON COVER) | LYRICS (2:36)

10. FLASH FORWARD: JUNG KOOK SINGING "ALL OF MY LIFE" | WE-LIVE CLIP (3:43)

11. BANGTAN BOMB: PLAYING WITH FILM CAMERA (1:15)

12. BANGTAN BOMB: COME AGAIN! JK & JIN'S EXERCISE TIME! (2:40)

13. OST PART.1 TEASER | JIN X JIMIN X JUNG KOOK (0:25)

14. "DREAM GLOW" (BY JIN, JIMIN, AND JUNG KOOK WITH CHARLI XCX) | COLOR CODED LYRICS (3:29)

15. BANGTAN BOMB: JK'S HEART (FOR ARMY♥) (1:14 - as shown)

16. BANGTAN BOMB: JK & V EXPERIENCED A NEW JOB! (1:11)

17. "LOOK AT ME" (GEORGE COVER) | LYRICS (4:12)

18. BONUS: "LOOK AT ME" (GEORGE COVER) | FMV (3:16)

19. BANGTAN BOMB: JK TAKING A PHOTO OF MEMBERS SLEEPING (0:57)

20. BANGTAN BOMB: ROCKIN’ OUT WITH INVISIBLE INSTRUMENTS (FEAT JIN MESSING WITH JK) (0:56)

21. BANGTAN BOMB: DRUMMER BOY V & JK (1:36)

22. "DECALCOMANIA" DEMO | LYRICS (1:19)

23. JUNG KOOK TALKS ABOUT "DECALCOMANIA" RELEASE | VLIVE (0:28)

24. BANGTAN BOMB: J-HOPE & JK'S FREE DANCE! (1:01)

25. BANGTAN BOMB: LET'S DO SQUATS TOGETHER (0:38)

26. BONUS: "O HOLY NIGHT" | 2019 SBS K-POP AWARDS (2:29)

27. BONUS: "O HOLY NIGHT" | LYRICS (3:29)

28. BONUS: JUNG KOOK SINGS "O HOLY NIGHT" | WE-LIVE CLIP (2:17)

29. BONUS: 191011 [VLOG] JUNG KOOK - MUSCLE BUNNY’S EXERCISE DIARY 🐰 (9:44)

Bangtan Bubble: Do you ever feel like you don’t know yourself anymore?

Let us know your answer in the comments below or on social media (include #BangtanBubble)!

Jump to Comments

DAY THREE:

Despite his determination to avoid his “feels” after “Decalcomania”, Jung Kook kept swinging for the fences the following year on 2020’s Map of the Soul: 7 and his solo track, “My Time”, which he co wrote.

It’s a song, once again, about becoming an adult. When we’re kids, we think that everything is going to be amazing when we grow up. And if you add in fame on top of that? Wow. But “My Time” shows a different perspective. It’s the story of Jung Kook’s emotional journey from the time he was a trainee, all the way up until the song’s release. The lyrics use the metaphors of time and jet-setting to describe the craziness of his adolescent years, and how now that he’s an adult, he doesn’t quite know how he got here.

Unlike “Euphoria”, and even “Decalcomania” however, “My Time” isn’t sweet or unsure. It’s matter-of-fact and declarative. It’s Jung Kook saying that although this journey into adulthood hasn’t been easy, he knows he’s getting to his time… he’s coming into his own. 

The performances… well, we covered them and the song more in depth during Week 35, but we all remember them from the “MOTS ON:E” online concert, right? The outfits, the choreography, the… thighs. One thing is for sure, with “My Time”, Jung Kook was no longer just telling ARMY he was an adult. He was showing us as well.

COOL.

"MY TIME" | STAGE MIX

1. "PERHAPS THAT WAS LOVE" (CHOI YONG JUNG COVER) | LYRICS (2:12)

2. BANGTAN BOMB: BOXING WITH A SQUEAKY HAMMER (1:13)

3. BANGTAN BOMB: LET'S PLAY HOPSCOTCH (1:58)

4. BANGTAN BOMB: WHO'S THIS UNEXPECTED GUEST? (1:55)

5. "MY TIME" | COLOR CODED LYRICS (3:54)

6. "MY TIME" PERFORMANCE | ON:E, DAY 1 (4:01)

7. "MY TIME" PERFORMANCE | ON:E, DAY 2 (4:01)

8. BONUS: JUNG KOOK "MY TIME" SHOOT AND REHEARSAL, FEAT MEMBER REACTIONS | MOTS ON:E PRACTICE MAKING FILM (3:25)

9. "MY TIME" | STAGE MIX (4:59 - as shown)

10. BANGTAN BOMB: BTS DOES IMPRESSIONS (1:18)

11. BANGTAN BOMB: PLAYING WITH A MEGAPHONE (1:34)

12. "WHO" (FEAT BTS) LAUV | OFFICIAL VISUALIZER (3:01)

13. "WHO" (FEAT BTS) LAUV | COLOR CODED LYRICS (3:01)

14. BANGTAN BOMB: SPELLING WITH WATER BOTTLES (1:36)

15. BANGTAN BOMB: JUNG KOOK'S ART CLASS (5:39 - as shown)

16. BANGTAN BOMB: BTS DONUT TIME (2:03)

17. "NEVER NOT" (LAUV COVER) | OFFICIAL VIDEO (1:37)

18. "NEVER NOT" (LAUV COVER) | LYRICS (1:42)

19. JUNG KOOK AND V SING "NEVER NOT" BY LAUV | WE-LIVE CLIP (3:03 - as shown)

20. BONUS: JUNG KOOK IMITATING THE MAN SAYING RRRRRAP MONSTER, PT 1 | COMPILATION (1:11)

21. BONUS: JUNG KOOK IMITATING THE MAN SAYING RRRRRAP MONSTER, PT 2 | COMPILATION (1:15)

22. BONUS: BANGTAN BOMB: HOW MUCH ICE CREAM DID JUNG KOOK EAT? (3:07)

23. BONUS: BANGTAN BOMB: JIJINJUNG ICE CREAM SWIRL (6:06)

24. BONUS: BANGTAN BOMB: JK THE ACTING PRO (3:44)

25. BONUS: BANGTAN BOMB: WHAT'S WRITTEN ON JIN AND JUNG KOOK'S STUFF? (3:46)

JUNG KOOK AND V SING "NEVER NOT" BY LAUV | WE-LIVE CLIP

“Left And Right (feat. Jung Kook)” Official M/V

BANGTAN BOMB: Jung Kook’s Art Class

Fun Fact

JK’s Campaign Pans Out.

Remember last week when I mentioned how Jung Kook embarked on a prolonged quest to get one of his favorite artists to notice him? That artist was Charlie Puth, and JK had been a fan of his for a long time, covering his songs here and there.

When BTS started gaining notice and popularity in the West, most notably the United States in 2017 and 2018, many interviewers asked the same questions over and over again—including “What artist do you most want to collaborate with?” Jung Kook almost always, and with a singular glint in his eye, would answer: “Charlie Puth! Charlie Puth!” This went on for… awhile.

Then, in 2018, Charlie performed a special stage of his hit song “We Don’t Talk Anymore” (which JK had coincidentally recorded a cover of with Jimin) at the MBC Plus X Genie Music Awards in Incheon, South Korea. To everyone’s shock, he was joined onstage by a special guest—BTS’ Jeon Jung Kook! They brought the house down and everyone was clamoring for a collab after that night.

But nothing happened for years. Fast forward to 2022, and Charlie Puth randomly tweeting that he had a dream that BTS had featured on his song “Left and Right” (a hit from 2016) with him and fans immediately perked their ears up at this. Later that same day, Jung Kook posted on Instagram a cover of Puth’s “That’s Hilarious”, saying it was his current favorite song. At that point, ARMY knew something was up.

Sure enough, a couple months later, in June, Puth dropped an updated version of “Left and Right” featuring Jung Kook. We’ve got it all linked down below for you. Enjoy!

1. "LEFT AND RIGHT" (CHARLIE PUTH FEAT JUNG KOOK) | OFFICIAL M/V (2:40 - as shown)

2. "LEFT AND RIGHT" (CHARLIE PUTH FEAT JUNG KOOK) | COLOR CODED LYRICS (2:35)

3. "LEFT AND RIGHT" (CHARLIE PUTH FEAT JUNG KOOK) | SAM FELDT REMIX (2:42)

4. "LEFT AND RIGHT" (CHARLIE PUTH FEAT JUNG KOOK) | GALANTIS REMIX (2:46)

5. "LEFT AND RIGHT" | BEHIND THE SCENES (2:56)

6. BONUS: EPISODE: "LEFT AND RIGHT" RECORDING SKETCH (8:18)

7. JUNG KOOK SINGING "LEFT AND RIGHT" | 2022 WE-LIVE CLIP (2:17)

8. "LEFT AND RIGHT" CHARLIE PUTH FEAT JUNG KOOK PERFORMANCE | TIKTOKINTHEMIX (1:04)

9. CHARLIE PUTH REVEALS DETAILS ON JUNG KOOK COLLAB | SIRIUSXM (1:50)

Jump to Comments

DAY FOUR:

"STILL WITH YOU" FANCAM | 2023 GOLDEN LIVE ON STAGE

When the COVID-19 Pandemic hit, the entire world was rocked to a standstill. We’ve discussed how it affected BTS many times over in this blog. The promotions for their just-released album Map of the Soul: 7 were halted, and their entire supporting world tour was canceled. As the lockdown went on and on, they saw all their plans for the next few years go up in smoke in a matter of weeks.

That year, for FESTA and their 7th (a very special number) anniversary, BTS wanted to release something very special for ARMY, something that would show us how much they loved and missed us. And they chose a song written and performed by Jung Kook. 

“Still With You” is a sweet, gorgeous ballad that has a Spanish feel to it. The piano and guitar trip blithely along with Jung Kook’s soft vocals. The lyrics speak of a feeling of extreme longing and a desire to be reunited with someone special.

Laughing together, crying together

These simple emotions, perhaps

they were everything to me

When will it be?

when I see you again

I will look into your eyes

And say, "I missed you"

All of BTS was missing ARMY during this time. Jung Kook, in particular, was missing the in person connection he felt from the time he got to perform for fans onstage. The previous year, Jung Kook had begun to make good on his wish he’d first uttered in 2016 to get tattoos someday. In 2019, around the time of his 22nd birthday, he began to make that happen. And what was the first one you ask?

Oh, it was only the word “ARMY” tattooed across the knuckles of his right hand. No big deal. (tucks hair behind her ear) I’m sure your fave has your name tattooed on their body too, right?

1. "STILL WITH YOU" | LYRICS (3:59)

2. JUNG KOOK SINGS "STILL WITH YOU" | 2021 VLIVE CLIP (1:55)

3. "STILL WITH YOU" FANCAM | 2023 GLOBAL CITIZEN FESTIVAL (3:52)

4. "STILL WITH YOU" FANCAM | 2023 GOLDEN LIVE ON STAGE (4:36 - as shown)

5. BONUS: JUNG KOOK SINGS "STILL WITH YOU" | 2024 WE-LIVE (3:58)

6. BANGTAN BOMB: THE NO NO GAME (1:21)

7. BANGTAN BOMB: WHATCHA WATCHIN', JK? (1:40)

8. "10,000 HOURS" (DAN + SHAY COVER) | LYRICS (2:46)

9. JUNG KOOK SINGS "10,000 HOURS" | 2021 VLIVE CLIP (2:43 - as shown)

10. JUNG KOOK SINGS "10,000 HOURS" | 2023 WE-LIVE CLIP (2:42)

11. BANGTAN BOMB: BTS ENJOYS ICE CREAM (1:52)

12. BANGTAN BOMB: ALL IT TAKES IS A LIGHT TO ENTERTAIN BTS (1:15)

13. "FALLING" (HARRY STYLES COVER) | LYRICS (3:54)

14. JUNG KOOK SINGING "FALLING" | 2023 WE-LIVE CLIP (7:21)

15. "FALLING" HARRY STYLES & JUNG KOOK MASHUP BY MARMENIO | COLOR CODED LYRICS (3:56)

16. BANGTAN BOMB: INTERVIEW SQUABBLE (1:54)

17. BANGTAN BOMB: HOW TO HAVE FUN IN THE GREEN ROOM (1:39)

18. BANGTAN BOMB: RUN JIMIN, JUNG KOOK, RUN! (2:49)

19. BANGTAN BOMB: JUNG KOOK'S SPIDER OBSERVATION LOG (2:41)

20. BONUS: "SAVAGE LOVE" JASON DERULO (LAXED – SIREN BEAT) BTS REMIX | OFFICIAL LYRIC VIDEO (3:06)

21. BONUS: "SAVAGE LOVE" JASON DERULO (LAXED – SIREN BEAT) BTS REMIX | COLOR CODED LYRICS (3:06)

JUNG KOOK SINGS "10,000 HOURS" | 2021 VLIVE CLIP

Fun Fact:

“Look who we are…”

On November 20, 2022 another member of BTS made history for something… again. This time, it was Jung Kook when he became the first Korean to contribute to the soundtrack and also perform during the opening ceremony of the FIFA World Cup, which was being held that year in Qatar.

When Jung Kook was first told he’d been selected, he thought all of BTS was going as well. Later, after it was clarified that it was just him they had asked for, he became incredibly nervous because he’d never traveled and performed somewhere completely by himself before. In his own words he “broke out into a cold sweat.”

Even though he was terrified, he rose to the challenge, determined to do his very best. The song that he was asked to be on was called “Dreamers”. It was produced by the famed Moroccan singer/songwriter/producer RedOne, and featured Qatari artist Fahad Al Kubaisi. It’s an uplifting anthem of hope and never giving up on one's dreams. Just as JK and BTS never gave up on theirs.

1. "DREAMERS" (FEAT. FAHAD AL KUBAISI) (2022 FIFA WORLD CUP OST) | OFFICIAL M/V (4:16)

2. "DREAMERS" (FEAT. FAHAD AL KUBAISI) (2022 FIFA WORLD CUP OST) | COLOR CODED LYRICS (3:20)

3. EPISODE: JUNG KOOK FIFA WORLD CUP 2022 SOUNDTRACK "DREAMERS" MV SHOOT SKETCH (8:33)

4. "DREAMERS" (FEAT. FAHAD AL KUBAISI) | FIFA WORLD CUP QATAR 2022 OPENING CEREMONY (5:05)

5. "DREAMERS" JUNG KOOK FOCUS FANCAM | 2022 FIFA WORLD CUP QATAR (4:18)

6. BANGTAN BOMB: JUNG KOOK UNWINDS IN QATAR (6:45)

7. EPISODE: JUNG KOOK FIFA WORLD CUP QATAR 2022 OPENING CEREMONY SKETCH (23:28)

Jump to Comments

DAY FIVE:

2022 and 2023 were extremely busy years for Jung Kook. In June of 2022 BTS announced that they would soon be taking a break from group activities to work on solo endeavors, and the members all scattered a bit working on various projects here and there.

Jung Kook had a few solo tracks and collaborations released in that time, including another fan song called “My You”, released as a 2022 FESTA gift and a feature on a track with The Kid LAROI and Central Cee in late 2023—a fun R&B song called “Too Much” that is criminally underrated in my opinion.

Another release in 2022 was my favorite song of his ever: “Stay Alive” (which was produced by SUGA) for the BTS webtoon 7Fates: Chakho. The story follows seven friends who get caught up with special powers and are tasked with the burden of having to save the world, and the song sounds just as epic as the plot of the series. 

When did things start to go wrong?

I can't remember at all

Hiding myself in a small room, I

whisper

Darkness is my only friend

(Only friend)

My hands that are seeking salvation

Am I strange?

The room that is drenched in blood

Please, somebody save me.

One could argue that the weight of the level of fame BTS has might sometimes feel as oppressive as being tasked with the theoretical responsibility of world salvation. Jung Kook has certainly felt an overwhelming pressure since a very young age to be something great and at times far beyond his years. Many others would have cracked under a weight like that. But he took it on as an honor, and vowed to always strive to meet the expectations placed upon him.

1. "STAY ALIVE" JUNG KOOK (PROD. SUGA OF BTS) - 7FATES: CHAKHO OST | OFFICIAL M/V (2:31 - as shown)

2. "STAY ALIVE" JUNG KOOK (PROD. SUGA OF BTS) | LYRICS (3:29)

3. BANGTAN BOMB: TELETUBBIES AND THE MERRY-GO ROUND (2:04)

4. "MY YOU" | OFFICIAL VIDEO (3:06)

5. "MY YOU" | LYRICS (2:43)

6. "MY YOU" ACAPELLA FANCAM | M!COUNTDOWN (0:52)

7. JUNG KOOK SINGING "MY YOU" | 2022 WE-LIVE CLIP (2:44 - as shown)

8. BONUS: V SINGS "MY YOU" | 2022 WE-LIVE CLIP (2:21)

9. BANGTAN BOMB: JIN AND JUNG KOOK PLAY WITH A CAMERA (1:35)

10. BANGTAN BOMB: LUNCH TIME WITH CHI(C)OTLE (2:02)

11. "BAD DECISIONS" BENNY BLANCO, BTS & SNOOP DOGG | OFFICIAL M/V (4:03)

12. "BAD DECISIONS" BENNY BLANCO, BTS & SNOOP DOGG | OFFICIAL VISUALIZER (2:53)

13. "BAD DECISIONS" BENNY BLANCO, BTS & SNOOP DOGG | COLOR CODED LYRICS (3:01)

14. "BAD DECISIONS" RECORDING SKETCH (6:26)

15. JUNG KOOK SINGING "BAD DECISIONS" | WE-LIVE CLIP (2:52)

16. "TOO MUCH" THE KID LAROI, JUNG KOOK & CENTRAL CEE | OFFICIAL TEASER (0:16)

17. "TOO MUCH" THE KID LAROI, JUNG KOOK & CENTRAL CEE | OFFICIAL M/V (3:24 - as shown)

18. "TOO MUCH" THE KID LAROI, JUNG KOOK & CENTRAL CEE | COLOR CODED LYRICS (3:24)

19. "TOO MUCH" | BEHIND SCENES (0:16)

20. JK’S FIRST TIME TRYING AN AUSTRALIAN CLASSIC… VEGEMITE! 😭 (1:01)

21. BONUS: THE KID LAROI ON HIS FRIENDSHIP W/ JUNG KOOK | ZACH SANG SHOW (7:55)

22. BONUS: BTS VLOG: JUNG KOOK L CAMPING VLOG (45:58)

"STAY ALIVE" JUNG KOOK (PROD. SUGA OF BTS) - 7FATES: CHAKHO OST | OFFICIAL M/V

JUNG KOOK SINGING "MY YOU" | 2022 WE-LIVE CLIP

"TOO MUCH" THE KID LAROI, JUNG KOOK & CENTRAL CEE | OFFICIAL M/V

Bangtan Bubble: Have you ever made a bad decision that turned out to actually be good for you?

Let us know your answer in the comments below or on social media (include #BangtanBubble)!

Jump to Comments

FINAL THOUGHTS:

One of my favorite things about Jung Kook is that on one hand he is endlessly practical, rough and tumble, and hates any kind of aegyo (acting cute), but on the other hand he is drawn to sappy love songs, cries over just about anything vaguely sentimental, and loves ARMY so much he got our name tattooed on his knuckles. He is a walking contradiction, and I love that about him.

When we return next week, we continue on with Jung Kook in 2023, and things start to look very “Golden”...

Side Quest

Did you order singing? Well, you got it.

Here is a continued study in sweet smiles, even sweeter singing, and Jung Kook’s quirky sense of humor. Whether he’s alone or with a few of the other members, no one does a livestream quite like Jeon Jung Kook. Despite being a shy introvert, he’s a master at having a conversation with the camera, and when all else fails… he’ll sing. 

Here we have collected for you all of JK’s LIVEs from 2018 through 2022, including some infamous ones… who can forget that sweet bunny smile as he tapped his fingers on a bottle of red wine shortly before drinking pretty much all of it and telling us he most certainly wasn’t drunk. 

“Night apple is poison apple. It’s okay… because I’m… JAYKAY.” 

Yup. Whatever you say Jung Kook.

181017 JK 🐰 | VLIVE

210831 HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME 🥳 | VLIVE

220901 BIRTHDAY KARAOKE | WE-LIVE

1. 180420 BTS LIVE : JK | VLIVE (1:01:16)

2. 180906 BLACK HAIR PRIDE LIVE 😍 | VLIVE (1:01:07)

3. 180928 I'LL BE RIGHT THERE! | VLIVE (11:50)

4. 181017 JK 🐰 | VLIVE (1:09:28 - as shown)

5. 190414 THANK YOU!🐰 | VLIVE (24:55)

6. 190519 I REALLY TRUSTED YOU... - JIN, JIMIN, V, JUNG KOOK | VLIVE (13:40)

7. 190603 I'M A PERSON WITH NO TEARS 😭 | VLIVE (41:52)

8. 190616 A RELAXED DRINK AFTER A HAPPY TIME🍷 | VLIVE (51:05)

9. 2008** JUNG KOOK (+ENG) | YT-LIVE (2:13)

10. 2008** JUNG KOOK (+ENG) | YT-LIVE (8:10)

11. 2008** V & JUNG KOOK (+ENG) | YT-LIVE (7:20)

12. 2009** RM & JUNG KOOK (+ENG) | YT-LIVE (5:27)

13. 201021 JUNG KOOK (+ENG) | YT-LIVE (29:07)

14. 200305 ARMY, WE MISS YOU💜 - JIN, SUGA, JUNG KOOK | VLIVE (6:34)

15. 200505 PRACTICE MAKING CARNATION FOR PARENT'S DAY - V JUNG KOOK | VLIVE (45:15)

16. 200505 AGAIN - V JUNG KOOK | VLIVE (28:12)

17. 200621 TODAY, KIMBAP CHEFS - JIMIN, JUNG KOOK | VLIVE (41:17)

18. 200621 TODAY, I'M THE REAL KIMBAP CHEF - JIMIN, JUNG KOOK | VLIVE (33:19)

19. 200726 HONEY FM (JIJINJUNG'S R.A.D.I.O RADIO) | VLIVE (46:26)

20. BANGTAN BOMB: JI. JIN. JUNG RADIO BEHIND THE SCENES (5:52)

21. 210227 JK💜 | VLIVE (45:33)

22. 210307 JK💜 | VLIVE (1:18:38)

23. 210729 JUNGKOOKIE ☺️ | VLIVE (1:07:45)

24. 210831 HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME 🥳 | VLIVE (2:30:46 -as shown)

25. 211128 COME ON - JIMIN, V, JUNG KOOK | VLIVE (12:46)

26. 211128 IT'S PART 2 - JIMIN, V, JUNG KOOK | VLIVE (20:02)

27. 211203 JOONIEKKOOKIE - RM, JUNG KOOK | VLIVE (24:15)

28. 220306 JWEJJWANBBOOGGWEO - JIN, J-HOPE, V, JUNG KOOK | WE-LIVE (1:10)

29. 220307 JWEJJWANBBOOGGWEO2 - JIN, J-HOPE, V, JUNG KOOK | WE-LIVE (40:59)

30. 220310 THIS POST WILL DISAPPEAR :) | IG-LIVE (8:27)

31. 220405 I'M TIRED 🐰🐰🐰 | WE-LIVE (1:04:26)

32. 220416 PPYONG ☺️ - J-HOPE, JIMIN, V, JUNG KOOK | WE-LIVE (1:13:45)

33. 220607 LET'S GET IT | WE-LIVE (35:10)

34. 220615 WHAT IS THIS? | WE-LIVE (1:35:32)

35. 220901 26TH BIRTHDAY | WE-LIVE (56:18)

36. 220901 BIRTHDAY KARAOKE | WE-LIVE (5:28 - as shown)

37. 220901 KARAOKE AGAIN | WE-LIVE (35:08)

38. 221015 BTS LIVE AFTER BUSAN CONCERT - J-HOPE, V, JUNG KOOK | WE-LIVE (19:26)

39. 221120 I'M HEREEE | WE-LIVE (12:18)

CREDITS:

YouTube/Web

BANGTANTV, HYBE LABELS, 7FATES: CHAKHO by HYBE, Anpanmeow, ARMY ARCADE, Army Online, babykook, BANGTAN SUBS, Bangtan's Corner, benny blanco, Bradlizzy, Brilliant, BTS LIVE ARCHIVE, BTS WORLD Official, btspower7, Charlie Puth, Emvmin, FIFA, Genius, Global Citizen, HEADLINER, JAEGUCHI, Jeon Lelu, JoseOchoaTV, k-pop skrr, KBS WORLD TV, kitchiekook, KookieMy, KookTaeMin, KOOKUTV, LAUV, LEMORING, 𝘮𝘰𝘨𝘶, Music box, O D N O L I U B _ B T S, purplelove💜, SBS Entertainment, SBSKPOP X INKIGAYO, serene blossom, SiriusXM, sweetoothsuga, Swiks Domain, Thao, That Good Feeling, The BookGuru, The Kid LAROI, Zach Sang Show Clips, ⟭⟬BTS BORA WORLD⟬⟭, 『INAYA Raven, ☆peggy☆, 비밀해죠TV, 일도아니지, 장방울[ ZZOZZI FANCAM ], 전정국이올시다; Web:

ARMY Project 529 Volunteers

Research Team: Angel (TikTok: Lilangel2828), Leslie Day (TikTok: Leslie Day), Merry (TikTok: merryj67), Sam T (TikTok: samt_26), Shelley (TikTok: shels167), Trudy (TikTok: theeducationmommy), Viv (TikTok: VivEliz); Video Team: Leslie Day (TikTok: Leslie Day), Namz (TikTok: Namz07)

Join us LIVE every Sunday evening at 8pm ET for #the529live, a wrap up of each week's “Monday Muster”, thoughtful discussions, and tons of laughter! And catch us on TikTok each Wednesday night at 9pm ET for #the529tea, when we talk Bangtan news and dish about any TEA that might be happening on Kim Namjoon’s internet. 

Sunday’s LIVE is hosted on ARMY Project 529’s YouTube channel: @ARMYProject529 while Wednesday’s LIVE is on our project TikTok:  @ARMYProject529.

Talent.

During an interview in 2021, the members of BTS were asked what would be the first sentence of a book they would write about their lives. Most had touching or thought-provoking replies. When it was Jung Kook’s turn, he simply gave a little grin and said, “Hello, all.”

If you didn’t know him, you might think he wasn’t taking the interview or the question seriously. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Jung Kook always shows the deepest gratitude and respect for anyone who takes the time to get to know more about his or BTS’ music. But he also readily admits that he’s not a hugely reflective person. He doesn’t tend to dwell in the past or in deep introspection, preferring to live in the moment and look more to the future.

One of the rare times he flipped the script was during his first appearance on Suchwita, when SUGA asked him, “If you could go into the past or the future, which would you choose and why?” He, after asking some calculating questions like, “If I go back, would I have all of my memories?”, said he would go to himself in the past and, knowing what was ahead of him, he’d immediately start working harder to learn English and develop his singing talent earlier. He didn’t want to go back for nostalgia, or to comfort his past self—nope… he would just go to make himself “better”.

It’s peak Jung Kook, honestly. Rarely does he stop and ponder what he wants from life beyond, “How can I be a better performer for ARMY and BTS?” It’s been his mindset ever since his earliest moments as a trainee, even though ARMY didn’t exist then. Though he didn’t know who his fans would be back then, he knew he wanted to make them proud. He wanted to work as hard as he needed to in order to be what they would want.

Jeon Jung Kook was born September 1, 1997 in Busan, South Korea where he lived with his parents and elder brother. During elementary and early middle school, Jung Kook began discovering he had natural talent in… well, pretty much anything he tried doing. He wasn’t particularly interested in music as a kid, but realized that he could, without any formal training, actually sing and dance fairly well. So in 2011, when he learned they would be holding auditions in Daegu, Jung Kook decided to try out for the talent show Superstar K. Though he wasn’t selected to be on the show, he did immediately receive casting offers from seven (how auspicious) different companies, including one of the “Big Three”—JYP Entertainment.

Undoubtedly most everyone in his life likely told him to go with the bigger, more established company over any of the smaller ones. And Jung Kook might have listened to them had someone from the tiny label Big Hit Entertainment not caught his eye during his research. Jung Kook saw RM (Rap Monster at the time) perform and that was it for him. He thought the older rapper was “so cool” and immediately decided he needed to join Big Hit so he could train with him.

When I first came to Seoul, everything was so huge and intimidating.

Jung Kook was only 13 when he left Busan and moved into the Big Hit dorms. He was shy and homesick, crying sometimes because he missed his mom. He was a bit of a loner and incredibly quiet. Most of the time the other trainees would forget he was there until they saw his big eyes peeking around a corner or heard him singing. In the midst of uprooting his life and becoming an Idol trainee, he was also going through puberty, painfully aware of his age and changing body. He showered late at night to avoid anyone else seeing him, and often dressed in oversized clothing.

Originally, BTS had been meant to debut as a strictly hip-hop group composed of just rappers/songwriters/producers. However, as more multi-talented trainees joined the company, and CEO Bang Shi-Hyuk expanded his market research, the idea for the group began to shift. Eventually, Big Hit decided to pivot “slightly” and debut BTS as a hip-hop Idol group. They’d still rap (and be encouraged to write and produce their own material), but now they would sing and dance as well.

Jung Kook (along with another promising trainee named Seokjin) was definitely a major part of this decision. Big Hit knew he had immense talent and they didn’t want to sit on it for too long lest another company try to poach him from them. Because of his age and demeanor, they didn’t think he’d be suited as a soloist, and they also knew he really respected Namjoon and wanted to work with him.

And so, BTS got their maknae (youngest) and their main vocalist all in one fell swoop.

It was determined very early on that little JK was not only an incredibly talented singer, but that his voice was extremely adaptable to different styles as well. He also had a wide range and perfect pitch. Once they started training, singing, and dancing at the same time, they realized he had an aptitude for that as well. Two more members joined the line-up after Jung Kook, and as the pieces started falling into place, Big Hit told the now 14 year-old that he was going to be carrying a large share of the group’s vocal parts most of the time. Immediately he felt overwhelmed and undeserving. He stressed over it, not wanting to let his fellow members or the company down.

Years later, Jung Kook would admit that the responsibility placed on him at that age terrified him. But rather than give in to that terror, he let it fuel him. He said that it was then that he decided to eliminate the concept of “vocal practice time” from his mind. Anywhere he could sing from then on—in the car, the shower, wherever… 24 hours a day—he would. His competitive nature kicked in, and he decided he’d prove himself worthy of the trust his group and company were placing in him.

He threw himself into training even more. Eventually, his hero RM gave him the nickname “Golden Maknae" because he was so good at everything. They didn’t know it at the time but this affectionate nickname would not only stick around for years, but also come to define the standard Jung Kook would set for his entire career.

Playlists & Lyrics

• JUNG KOOK: SINGLES AND COLLABS LYRIC TRANSLATION

• ARMY PROJECT 529 WEEK 69 VIDEO PLAYLIST 
  

Skip to Content: Day One | Day Two | Day Three | Day Four | Day Five

DAY ONE:

When he moved to Seoul, Jung Kook was still in middle school. Once finished there, he deferred his entrance to high school for a year in order to concentrate on preparing for BTS to debut. He worked hard, and in keeping his promise to himself, he sang anywhere and whenever he could.

Jung Kook was only 15 at the time, and the six other members took their role as his hyungs seriously (even Taehyung, who tried in vain to get tiny Jung Kook to speak informally with him). They looked after and doted on him, slowly drawing him more and more out of his shell.

In the months leading up to their debut date, the members filmed and posted vlogs on YouTube and connected with fans on Facebook, Twitter (X), and their Fan Cafe. Jung Kook participated, but he was more prone to joking around and being himself if someone else was with him. He still tended toward shyness if by himself. When he filmed the vlog with RM in which his nickname—”Golden Maknae”—was first mentioned, he blushed, laughed and kind of hid in his hoodie when RM said it.

But the nickname proved to be prophetic. Obviously they knew he had talent before, but after BTS debuted, Jung Kook truly began to bloom. Once he got a taste of being on stage in front of fans cheering him on, there was no turning back for him. He knew he’d found where he belonged.

And magically, he began opening up more during backstage moments as well. Fans got to know that Jung Kook loved to tease his hyungs and stir up trouble, could recreate almost any girl group choreo, and could also fall asleep absolutely anywhere. And as they saw his adorable bunny-rabbit smile more and more, it wasn’t just the other members of BTS who would do anything to take care of him anymore—now the maknae had an entire (newly-named) ARMY at his back.

BANGTAN BOMB: "N.O" TROT VER BY JUNG KOOK AND OPERA VER BY BTS

1. JUNG KOOK AUDITION FOR SUPERSTAR K | NEW YANG NAM SHOW (1:43)

2. JUNG KOOK PREDEBUT VIDEOS (4:41)

3. "I'M DA ONE" JOKWON (2012) | OFFICIAL M/V (5:42)

4. (PREDEBUT) BTS - @ JOKWON'S "I'M DA ONE" CUTS (1:28)

5. "I'M DA ONE" JOKWON (J-HOPE AND JUNG KOOK BACKUP DANCERS) | MUSIC CORE (3:06)

6. BANGTAN BOMB: VJ JUNG KOOK (0:35)

7. BANGTAN BOMB: LET'S MAKE AN AUTOGRAPH! (4:20)

8. SPECIAL BANGTAN BOMB: JIMIN IS ELDER THAN JK LOL (0:22)

9. BANGTAN BOMB: JUNG KOOK "IT'S HOT RIGHT" (0:07 - as shown)

10. "LIKE A STAR" (RM AND JUNG KOOK) | COLOR CODED LYRICS (1:50)

11. "LIKE A STAR" (RM AND JUNG KOOK) | BTS BEGINS FAN CAM (1:43)

12. BANGTAN BOMB: JUNG KOOK WANTS TO EAT A DOUGHNUT (0:34)

13. BANGTAN BOMB: JUNG KOOK IS DRAWING "I LIKE IT" (2:01)

14. BANGTAN BOMB: JUNG KOOK'S SIGHT (1:21)

15. BANGTAN BOMB: J-HOPE & JUNG KOOK ARE RAPPER! (0:37)

16. BANGTAN BOMB: "N.O" TROT VER BY JUNG KOOK AND OPERA VER BY BTS (1:17 - as shown)

17. "GRADUATION OF BTS" (2013) J-HOPE, JIMIN, JUNG KOOK | OFFICIAL M/V (3:02)

18. "GRADUATION OF BTS" (2013) J-HOPE, JIMIN, JUNG KOOK | COLOR CODED LYRICS (3:04)

19. BANGTAN BOMB: SLEEPING BEAU... TY! (1:00)

20. BANGTAN BOMB: SHY SHY SHY JUNG KOOK (0:43)

21. "SEE-THROUGH" (FEAT. GAEKO, ZION.T BY PRIMARY) | VOCAL PRACTICE BY JUNG KOOK OF BTS (1:18)

22. BANGTAN BOMB: V THINKS JUNG KOOK LIKE BABY! LOL (0:21)

23. "BEAUTIFUL" - J-HOPE, JIMIN, V, JUNG KOOK | OFFICIAL M/V (3:12)

24. "BEAUTIFUL" - J-HOPE, JIMIN, V, JUNG KOOK FANCAM | MUSTER (2:11)

25. "BEAUTIFUL" - J-HOPE, JIMIN, V, JUNG KOOK | DANCE PRACTICE (3:04)

26. "BEAUTIFUL" - J-HOPE, JIMIN, V, JUNG KOOK | COLOR CODED LYRICS (3:11)

27. BONUS: "BEAUTIFUL" - J-HOPE, JIMIN, V, JUNG KOOK | BEHIND THE SCENES (5:45)

28. BONUS: EPISODE: BTS SURPRISE BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR JUNG KOOK! (5:42)

29. BONUS: BANGTAN BOMB: BTS STYLE "HUSH" OF MISS A - RM, V, JK (2:21)

30. BONUS: BANGTAN BOMB: PHOTOGRAPHER J-HOPE & JUNG KOOK LOL (1:27)

31. BONUS: BANGTAN BOMB: MOVIE DIRECTOR JUNG KOOK (2:19)

32. BONUS: BANGTAN BOMB: PRACTICING SPECIAL MC MENT 131203 (0:48)

BANGTAN BOMB: JUNG KOOK "IT'S HOT RIGHT"

Fun Fact:

Rap Monster, Jung Kook, and others celebrate a very Big Hit Christmas.

Listen, can you think of a better way to end the year and celebrate the holidays than with tiny Namjoon and Jung Kook singing Christmas songs with a few other artists/Ghosts of Big Hit Past?

Maybe? Fair. But this is still pretty cute. At the end of their Debut year, the leader and the maknae of BTS got together with Jo Kwon from 2AM, soloist Lim Jung Hee, and Joo Hee from 8Eight to spread some holiday cheer.

Please enjoy the lovely vocals, the sweet comradery, and adorable Baby Namjoon and Kookie.

1. PERFECT CHRISTMAS TEASER (0:32)

2. PERFECT CHRISTMAS - SPECIAL (JOKWON, LIM JUNG HEE, JOO HEE, RAP MONSTER, JUNG KOOK) (3:46)

3. PERFECT CHRISTMAS WITH BIGHIT ARTIST SKETCH (3:31)

4. SPECIAL BANGTAN BOMB: LIP-SYNC BIG HIT CHRISTMAS CAROL (1:00)

5. ACAPPELLA - SANTA CLAUS IS COMIN' TO TOWN (JOKWON, LIM JUNG HEE, JOO HEE, RAP MONSTER, JUNG KOOK) (3:37)

Jump to Comments

DAY TWO:

If you know BTS’ early discography, then you know there was a time when Jung Kook carried some of the rap parts in certain songs. Like pretty much anything he put even a little effort into, JK was pretty good at rapping. But after awhile, they all (Big Hit included) realized that the maknae’s concentration was much better suited all on singing and dancing.

Also in those early days, the members of the Rap Line endeavored to get the four vocalists more clued in to popular music, with an emphasis on hip-hop, since that was the genre they were based in. They gave the Vocal Line members thumb drives with songs on them, almost like homework to learn.

Jung Kook, though he looked up to his hyungs immensely, wasn’t particularly good at following disciplined directions. So while he may have lost his thumb drive sort of accidentally on purpose, he did start paying attention to music in general bit by bit. And though he was meant to be studying up on hip-hop, JK found himself drawn time and time again to the catchy music and sweet lyrics of mainstream pop music.

And since he sang everywhere and at all times, it didn’t take long before he began recording some covers of songs he liked. Sometimes they were just little clips he’d post for fans, or they’d be bits in Bangtan Bombs, but eventually he started putting them up on YouTube and SoundCloud. His smooth tenor voice and easy falsetto make him suited for a wide range of genres, but even to this day he definitely sits most comfortably in pop.

BANGTAN BOMB: JUNG KOOK'S DANCE GUIDE

1. "WORKING" ("YANGHWA BRIDGE" BY ZION. T  COVER) | LYRICS (3:57)

2. "YANGHWA BRIDGE" ZION. T  AND JUNG KOOK | 2015 KBS SONG FESTIVAL (3:49)

3. BANGTAN BOMB: JUNG KOOK COLLABORATION STAGE WITH ZION.T (4:49)

4. BANGTAN BOMB: JUNG KOOK... JIMIN IS ELDER THAN YOU LOL (0:19)

5. BANGTAN BOMB: JUST WATCHING JUNG KOOK LIPSYNC SHOW (2:11)

6. BANGTAN BOMB: SOMETHING BY JUNG KOOK, JIMIN AND JIN! (2:10)

7. BANGTAN BOMB: JUNG KOOK'S DANCE GUIDE (0:29 - as shown)

8. BANGTAN BOMB: RAP MAKING BY JIMIN & JUNG KOOK (1:15)

9. BANGTAN BOMB: BTS CYPHER VER. JUNG KOOK AND V (0:46)

10. "SOFA" (BY CRUSH) | LYRICS (3:51)

11. "SOFA" (BY CRUSH) | WE-LIVE (3:37)

12. BANGTAN BOMB: ZZZZZZ.... Z.... ZZ... ZZZZ (0:15)

13. BANGTAN BOMB: "EYES, NOSE, LIPS" OF JUNG KOOK (FEAT.JIMIN) (1:30)

14. BANGTAN BOMB: FRIDAY & SOME WITH BTS (2:59)

15. BANGTAN BOMB: BTS STRETCHING TIME (0:58)

16. BANGTAN BOMB: RECOMMENDED THE SONGS (VJ CAM W/ JK) (2:18)

17. BANGTAN BOMB: LIP SYNC PRINCES (0:51)

18. "CHRISTMAS DAY" JIMIN & JUNG KOOK | COLOR CODED LYRICS (3:14)

19. "CHRISTMAS DAY" JIMIN & JUNG KOOK | YOUIDO FANSIGN (0:55)

20. "CHRISTMAS DAY" JIMIN & JUNG KOOK | FMV (2:25)

21. BANGTAN BOMB: FINDING JUNG KOOK BY JIMIN PD (2:29)

22. BANGTAN BOMB: FINDING JUNG KOOK BY JIMIN PD (2) (4:37)

23. BONUS: BANGTAN BOMB: "A GUY LIKE ME" LIP-SYNC BY JUNG KOOK (V CAM) (3:56)

24. BONUS: EPISODE: JUNG KOOK WENT TO HIGH SCHOOL WITH BTS! (2:58)

25. BONUS: CAMEO: MNET 4 THINGS SHOW EP 3 - RAP MONSTER (47:31)

26. BONUS: AFTER SCHOOL CLUB EP 68 AFTER SHOW WITH ERIC NAM, KEVIN - GUESTS RM, JIMIN, AND JUNG KOOK (52:58)

27. BONUS: AFTER SCHOOL CLUB EP 70 AFTER SHOW WITH ERIC NAM, KEVIN - GUESTS RM, JIMIN, AND JUNG KOOK (53:04)

Bangtan Bubble: Do you dwell in the past, or focus more on the future, like JK?

Let us know your answer in the comments below or on social media (include #BangtanBubble)!

Jump to Comments

DAY THREE:

In 2015 BTS began to change up both their sound and their look with their HYYH (“The Most Beautiful Moment in Life”) trilogy of albums. They left behind their hard hip-hop image and embraced more vulnerable lyrics and visuals.

By this point, two years into their career, Jung Kook was a master at nailing choreography and all of his vocal parts. But now he was challenged, along with the rest of the group, to add something new to his ever-expanding repetoire. Along with the introspective lyrics and softer looks came music videos with deep storylines that required quite a bit of acting from all of them for the first time.

It’s not like they had NEVER acted before, but they’d certainly never tackled storylines like these previously. When the video for “I NEED U”, the title track on The Most Beautiful Moment in Life Pt. 1 dropped, ARMY was floored by the dark themes portrayed and the powerful performances given by all the members. Jung Kook in particular, showed a depth of emotion and fragility despite being only 17, and being used to acting tough and untouchable in most of their previous M/Vs.

During their first Festa celebration in 2014, SUGA asked all the members to make a wish for themselves or for BTS for the following year. They didn’t tell fans what those wishes were at the time, but waited until their 2nd birthday celebration the next June. On their KKUL FM 0613 broadcast, SUGA revealed that three of the members’ wishes had come true and one of them was Jung Kook. He said, “Oh yeah, I wished for a music show win.”

“I NEED U”, and all of the changes it brought with it, was what BTS needed to finally secure their first, extremely coveted music show win. (Incidentally, it happened on May 5th, exactly nine years before this blog’s publication date.) This win would be the tipping point for the group that took them over the edge from moderate success to gaining real traction in the music charts.

JUNG KOOK SINGING "PAPER HEARTS" | VLIVE

1. "ONE DREAM ONE KOREA" | TEASER TRAILER (1:06)

2. "ONE DREAM ONE KOREA" | OFFICIAL M/V (4:56)

3. "ONE DREAM ONE KOREA" LIVE | ONE-K CONCERT (4:12)

4. "ONE DREAM ONE KOREA" JUNG KOOK FOCUS| FANCAM (3:35)

5. BANGTAN BOMB: WHO ARE THE ELDERS IN BTS LOL (1:11)

6. BANGTAN BOMB: MAL DANCE BY J-HOPE (FEAT 3J) (0:43)

7. BANGTAN BOMB:  BTS' RHYTHMICAL FARCE! LOL (1:32)

8. BANGTAN BOMB: BTS ROOKIE CAMERA DIRECTOR JUNG KOOKIE :D (0:57)

9. "LOST STARS" (ADAM LEVINE COVER) | LYRICS (4:28)

10. "LOST STARS" (ADAM LEVINE COVER) LIVE | BUSKING IN MALTA CLIP (0:29)

11. BONUS: JUNG KOOK BUSKING IN MALTA | BON VOYAGE (6:31)

12. BANGTAN BOMB: JUNG KOOK’S SELF-CAM WITH SEAGULL IN THE SEA (JACKET SHOOTING) (1:47)

13. BANGTAN BOMB: LOOK THEIR FACE OVER USING THE CAMERA LOL (0:44)

14. BANGTAN BOMB: 1ST MEETING WITH SEOLBING ?! (1:01)

15. "PAPER HEARTS" (TORI KELLY COVER) | LYRICS (3:23)

16. JUNG KOOK SINGING "PAPER HEARTS" | VLIVE (1:05 - as shown)

17. "PAPER HEARTS" - TORI KELLY & JUNG KOOK MASHUP | COLOR CODED LYRICS (3:23)

18. BANGTAN BOMB: JUNG KOOK'S CUPID SHOT- O MY SEAGULL! (0:24)

19. BANGTAN BOMB: JUNG KOOK PD'S DIRECTING (1:47)

20. BANGTAN BOMB: JUNG KOOK WITH FUN (0:25)

21. "FOOLS" COVER (RM AND JUNG KOOK) | LYRICS (3:42)

22. "FOOLS" COVER - RM+JUNG KOOK+TROY SIVAN MASHUP | COLOR CODED LYRICS (3:42)

23. BANGTAN BOMB: IT'S THE POSE WHEN BTS SLEEP NORMALLY (1:42)

24. BANGTAN BOMB: KNOW-HOW FOR MAKING A HANDSOME LOOK (BONUS. MR.LIP BALM-JK) (2:08)

25. BANGTAN BOMB: 2 BRUSHES FOR JUNG KOOK’S TEETH (0:39 - as shown)

26. BANGTAN BOMB: SLEEPING BABY BOTHERED WITH JIN (0:43)

27. BONUS: "PERFECT MAN" (SHINWA COVER) | MBC MUSIC FESTIVAL (2:21)

28. BONUS: "PERFECT MAN" (SHINWA COVER) JUNG KOOK FOCUS | FANCAM (2:21)

29. BONUS: JUNG KOOK SINGING "PERFECT MAN" | WE-LIVE CLIP (0:43)

30. BONUS: BANGTAN BOMB: PERFECT BOYS 2015 (3:34)

BANGTAN BOMB: 2 BRUSHES FOR JUNG KOOK’S TEETH

Fun Fact

It’s that time again…

All the way back in Week 11, in another Fun Fact, we talked about the song “Coming of Age Ceremony” by First Gen Idol, Park Ji Yoon. Covering the song, originally released in 2000, has become a rite of passage of sorts for K-Pop Idols once they reach the age of majority in South Korea.

In our previous coverage, we gave several examples of other artists performing dance covers, and mentioned that it would soon become relevant for BTS. Well… the time has come.

During the live “Happy BTS Day” 3rd Birthday Party Show, Jimin and Jung Kook performed their own dance cover to “Coming of Age Ceremony”, in honor of Jung Kook’s upcoming 19th birthday. (Nineteen is the age of majority in South Korea since 2011.)

The original choreography was created for a girl of course, but when has that ever stopped the members of BTS before—Jung Kook especially. He and Jimin attack the dance with everything they’ve got and it’s… something special. SPECIAL.

1. "COMING OF AGE" JIMIN & JUNG KOOK | 2016 FESTA (2:04)

2. BANGTAN BOMB: "COMING OF AGE CEREMONY" DANCE COVER BY JIMIN & JUNG KOOK (6:45)

3. PARK JI YOON "SUNG IN SHIK (COMING OF AGE CEREMONY)" LIVE (3:28)

4. TWICE COVER OF "COMING OF AGE CEREMONY" (03:32, FEAT. MOMO, NAYEON, MINA, AND SANA) (3:32)

5. 9MUSES COVER OF "COMING OF AGE CEREMONY" (2:36)

6. ‘96 LINE COVER OF "COMING OF AGE CEREMONY" (03:00, FEAT. JOY OF RED VELVET, HAYOUNG OF APINK, & CHANMI OF AOA) (3:00)

Jump to Comments

DAY FOUR:

“I Know” by RM & Jung Kook

Buoyed by the success of their HYYH era, BTS decided to keep exploring new genres and challenging themselves both as a group and individuals. 2016 saw the release of their second full-length studio album, WINGS. The concept for the album delved deeply into both literature (Demian by Hermann Hesse) and Greek mythology. The theme circled around the last vestiges of youth giving way to the temptations of adulthood. It was definitely a more mature side the group was deciding to show. Would 19 year-old Jung Kook be up for the task?

Come on, you already know the answer to that question. Of course he was.

WINGS was also the first time the members had solo songs featured on an album. All of them at least contributed to the writing of their track, including Jung Kook. His Rap Mon hyung, his hero, did the actual writing, but JK gave him the story—how he felt arriving in Seoul as a trainee, and all of the feelings the developing bond with his brothers in the group brought out in him. The result was his first ever solo and writing credit, and one of my absolute favorite songs of his—”Begin”.

We talked about “Begin” in depth in Week 15 of the blog, but it’s just about the most beautifully perfect song I could ever imagine for Jung Kook at that time. Maybe for any time, actually. The mix of fast pace and soft sentiment fits his personality and talents like a glove. He’s able to show off his vocals and display heartfelt emotion while nailing a particularly difficult piece of choreography at the same time. It’s so quintessentially Jung Kook.

2016 was also the year that Jung Kook came of age in South Korea. He began taking a more active role in public speaking at events and award shows, and even made more solo appearances on variety shows too. Though still shy, and always humble, moments of confidence kept showing up—especially in the face of never-ending praise from his hyungs. Along with Jimin, Jung Kook decided to put his cheeky foot forward and performed the “Coming of Age Ceremony” dance at BTS’ third fan meeting, letting ARMY know for sure that the Golden Maknae was indeed, growing up.

1. "I KNOW" (RM, JUNG KOOK) | COLOR CODED LYRICS (2:45)

2. "I KNOW" (RM, JUNG KOOK) | ARMY.ZIP + 3RD MUSTER (2:43)

3. RM & JUNGKOOK SINGING "I KNOW" FT. TAEHYUNG'S FUNNY REACTION (0:24)

4. BANGTAN BOMB: JUNG KOOK IS STILL A BABY.... (1:40)

5. BANGTAN BOMB: SHOW ME YOUR BBA SAE!?!? (2:13)

6. BANGTAN BOMB: ACTOR KIM WITH KOOK PD (0:23)

7. BANGTAN BOMB: JUNG KOOK'S SHOPPING (0:39)

8. "PURPOSE" | LYRICS (3:23)

9. BANGTAN BOMB: DART KING JUNG KOOK (3:37)

10. BANGTAN BOMB: JIN & KOOK MASSAGE TIME (0:47)

11. WINGS SHORT FILM #1 BEGIN (2:35)

12. WINGS SPECIAL FILM - JK CRYING (1:48)

13. BEGIN LIVE | THE WINGS TOUR 2017 (4:16)

14. JK PHOTOSHOOT FEAT JIMIN TRYING TO MAKE HIM LAUGH (1:14)

15. BANGTAN BOMB: JK'S CHATTER: MY BAGGY PANTS.... (1:25)

16. BANGTAN BOMB: JK'S CHATTER : BTS BAND? (0:56)

17. BANGTAN BOMB: SWEET JIN & JUNG KOOK'S CHATTER (1:43)

18. "I'M A FLYING BUTTERFLY" 97-LINERS | 2016 KBS SONG FESTIVAL (3:35)

19. "I'M A FLYING BUTTERFLY" (JUNG KOOK FOCUS) | 2016 KBS SONG FESTIVAL (2:09 - as shown)

20. "I'M A FLYING BUTTERFLY" 97-LINERS | LYRICS (3:57)

21. BONUS: 97-LINERS INTERVIEW | 2016 KBS SONG FESTIVAL (1:31)

22. BANGTAN BOMB: JIMIN’S BEST DANCE IMITATION BY JUNG KOOK (0:35)

23. BANGTAN BOMB: MISSION! MAKE JUNG KOOK LAUGH! (1:14)

24. ROUND 1: ARCHERY GIRL VS FENCING MAN - "I'M IN LOVE" | KING OF MASKED SINGER (1:54)

25. JUNG KOOK FENCING MAN DANCE | KING OF MASKED SINGER (0:23)

26. ROUND 2: FENCING MAN - "IF YOU" | KING OF MASKED SINGER (2:10)

27. FENCING MAN IDENTITY | KING OF MASKED SINGER (2:30)

28. BONUS: FENCING MAN COMPILATION | KING OF MASKED SINGER (11:00)

29. BONUS: BANGTAN BOMB: SHOW! MUSIC CORE SPECIAL MC JUNG KOOK! (3:11)

30. BONUS: JUNG KOOK (BTS) & MINWOO (SHINHWA) | CELEBRITY BROMANCE, EP1~EP4 (1:10:06)

31. BONUS: BANGTAN BOMB: JIMIN & JUNG KOOK DID SHOW MUSIC CORE SPECIAL MC!! (8:03)

32. BONUS: JIMIN & JUNG KOOK DID SHOW MUSIC CORE SPECIAL MC!! (8:03)

33. BONUS: BANGTAN BOMB:  J-HOPE & JUNG KOOK SHOW MUSIC CORE SPECIAL MC (4:51)

"I'M A FLYING BUTTERFLY" (JUNG KOOK FOCUS) | 2016 KBS SONG FESTIVAL

Fun Fact:

Humility and grace isn’t reserved for elders.

In 2016, Jung Kook joined that cast of the reality show “Flower Crew”. The premise was that the show would split up two teams of Korean celebrities—one team would get to go on a lavish trip, while the other team would be faced with difficulties and less than stellar accomodations.

Jung Kook appeared in just the two pilot episodes of the series, leaving the show early due to “scheduling conflicts”. This is the official reason, and while likely true, may not be the entire story. During his two episodes there were a few incidents that happened which clearly made Jung Kook feel extremely uncomfortable.

The biggest of these is the well-known “burger incident”. “Flower Crew” was aired completely live, so everything the viewers saw was happening in real time. Jung Kook showed up to set with a gift for his castmates—a bag of yummy hamburgers. He handed the bag over as he gave formal greetings, and excitedly told everyone what was inside. While initially some seemed excited, another member of the cast, a comedian named Jo Se Ho (who is fifteen years older than JK), sneered at the offering and said “I think these are leftovers.” Jung Kook tried to protest, but Se Ho said “Forget it” and walked off, taking most of the cast with him and leaving a very confused and humiliated JK behind.

Korean variety shows often “roast” new cast members but Se Ho’s treatment of Jung Kook sparked instant backlash with most netizens saying he had gone too far. Whether this incident was part of the reason Jung Kook ultimately pulled out of the project we’ll probably never know, but it wouldn’t be a stretch to say it likely had at least a little influence on his decision.

Eventually, the cast of the show issued a formal apology to Jung Kook, though it was couched a bit in qualifying explanations. Years later, in 2021, Jo Se Ho was a host on another popular variety show: “You Quiz on the Block”. BTS, obviously much bigger now, was scheduled to appear. Before the episode Jung Kook actually called Se Ho and extended an “olive branch”, so to speak. Then, while they were taping the show, Se Ho, and the other host, both bowed and sincerely apologized to Jung Kook, who took it in stride and hugged them, showing immense grace.

This entire incident, which happened over the course of many years just shows how humble BTS is and how much they never want to be involved in drama or controversy. They treat everyone with kindness and respect—even those who don’t always show them the same.

1. FLOWER CREW BTS JUNG KOOK | TEASER 1 (2:22)

2. FLOWER CREW BTS JUNG KOOK | TEASER 2 (1:12)

3. 160715 FLOWER CREW EPISODE 1 (1:30:10)

4. 160716 FLOWER CREW EPISODE 2 (1:18:43)

5. JO SEHO REJECTED JUNG KOOK'S BURGERS | FLOWER CREW (2:18)

6. JO SE HO AND SEO JANG HOON APOLOGIZE FOR CRITICIZED BEHAVIOR TOWARDS BTS’S JUNG KOOK AND KIM MIN SUK (1:52)

7. JO SE HO REJECTED JUNG KOOK'S BURGERS AND AFTER 5 YRS BOWS TO HIM (0:53)

8. JUNG KOOK HUGGING THE MC JO SEHO WHO REFUSED HIS BURGERS! (0:41)

9. BTS INTERVIEW | YOU QUIZ ON THE BLOCK, EP 99 (1:51:03)

10. BTS J-HOPE X JIMIN X JUNG KOOK INTERVIEW (FULL VER.) | #YOUQUIZ (21:43)