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Pink Villa
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Best places to visit in BTS members RM, Jin, SUGA, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook's birthplaces in South Korea
BTS, the globally renowned K-pop group, has captivated audiences worldwide with their iconic music and performances. Comprising seven talented members—RM, Jin, SUGA, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—the group has roots in various parts of South Korea. As fans eagerly anticipate their reunion in June, following the discharge of Jungkook, Jimin, RM, V, and SUGA from mandatory military service and the group's 12th debut anniversary, it's a good time to explore the hometowns of these artists. Each city offers unique cultural experiences and attractions that reflect the diverse backgrounds of the BTS members. 1. Busan – Birthplace of Jungkook and Jimin Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage. Jagalchi Market: As the largest seafood market in South Korea, Jagalchi Market offers a plethora of fresh seafood options. Visitors can sample various delicacies and experience the bustling atmosphere of this iconic market. Gamcheon Culture Village: Often referred to as the "Machu Picchu of Busan," this colorful village is renowned for its artistic installations, murals, and labyrinthine alleyways. It's a haven for photographers and art enthusiasts. Gwangalli Beach: This crescent-shaped beach is famous for its fine sand and the stunning view of the Gwangan Bridge. It's a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying the coastal scenery. 2. Daegu – Birthplace of V and SUGA Daegu, a city known for its fashion and textile industry, offers a blend of traditional markets and modern attractions. Seomun Market: One of the oldest and largest traditional markets in South Korea, Seomun Market is a hub for textiles, crafts, and street food. It's a great place to experience local culture and cuisine. Duryu Park: This expansive park features walking trails, sports facilities, and the Daegu Tower, offering panoramic views of the city. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists. 3. Ilsan – Birthplace of RM Ilsan, a district in Goyang city, is known for its modern urban planning and cultural sites. Lake Park (Ilsan Lake Park): One of the largest man-made lakes in Asia, this park offers scenic walking paths, gardens, and recreational facilities. It's a peaceful retreat within the city. KINTEX (Korea International Exhibition Center): As a major convention and exhibition center, KINTEX hosts various events, including concerts, exhibitions, and conventions, reflecting the dynamic cultural scene of Ilsan. 4. Gwangju – Birthplace of J-Hope Gwangju is a city with a rich history and a strong emphasis on arts and democracy. Gwangju Biennale: This contemporary art exhibition showcases works from artists worldwide, emphasizing Gwangju's commitment to the arts. May 18th National Cemetery: A solemn site commemorating the Gwangju Uprising, it's a place of reflection and understanding of South Korea's democratic movements. 5. Anyang – Birthplace of Jin Anyang is a vibrant city that blends natural beauty with cultural landmarks. Anyang Art Park: This park is renowned for its contemporary art installations set against a backdrop of lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy a fusion of nature and art as they explore the various sculptures and exhibits. Sammaksa Temple: A historic Buddhist temple nestled in the mountains, Sammaksa offers serene landscapes and a glimpse into traditional Korean architecture and spirituality. Pyeongchon Central Park: A spacious urban park featuring walking trails, sports facilities, and seasonal flower gardens, making it a popular spot for relaxation and community events. Anyang 1st Street: The city's bustling commercial hub, offering a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. As June approaches, fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting the reunion of BTS. With Jungkook, Jimin, RM, V, and SUGA completing their mandatory military service, the group is set to embark on new group activities. Exploring the birthplaces of each member offers fans a deeper connection to the band's roots and the diverse cultural tapestry of South Korea. Whether you're an ARMY or a traveler seeking to experience South Korea's rich culture, these cities provide a unique journey through the landscapes that shaped the members of BTS.
Straits Times
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Straits Times
Three Singapore artists earn posts at major international arts bodies
(From left) Ho Tzu Nyen, Ming Wong and Tang Fu Kuen have landed high-profile engagements in the international contemporary art scene. PHOTOS: SINGAPORE ART MUSEUM, THE NATIONAL GALLERY, LONDON, THOR BRODRESKIFT SINGAPORE - A trio of Singaporean artists have landed high-profile engagements in the international contemporary art scene. Artist Ho Tzu Nyen has been appointed artistic director of the 16th edition of the Gwangju Biennale, to be held in the South Korean city in September and November 2026. The renowned contemporary arts event is the oldest biennale in Asia, founded in 1995. Ho, who participated in the 2018 edition and made a commissioned work for the 2021 edition, told The Straits Times that the appointment 'is a great honour and a great adventure'. The 49-year-old, who represented Singapore at the 54th Venice Biennale in 2011 and received a large-scale survey solo at the Singapore Art Museum in 2023, added: 'I hope to be able to give something back to this speciality which has contributed so much to both the history of democratic struggles in Asia, and also to the spirit of artistic enquiry and experimentation.' His appointment was announced on Apr 23 by acting president Lee Sang-Gap of the Gwangju Biennale Foundation. In a statement, the foundation cited Ho's research-based practice and engagement with Asian historical narratives as key factors in his selection. On the other side of the world, multidisciplinary artist Ming Wong started his stint as The National Gallery's first Singaporean artist-in-residence in March. The year-long residency at the London institution, in its fifth iteration, offers artists access to a studio as well as the Gallery's staff and collections. His work will also be displayed at the museum and a work produced during the residency will be acquired. The 53-year-old said in a statement: 'It's such an exciting time to be granted this opportunity to re-navigate myself in the journeys of European art as the National Gallery celebrates 200 years with a rehang of its collection. 'There isn't a better time to reimagine the stories that these characters and creatures inhabiting these worlds can tell one another, and their exchanges that cross centuries and civilisations beyond the frames.' Dramaturg and curator Tang Fu Kuen, 52, is one of the international judges for the Taishin Art Awards. The biggest contemporary art prize in Taiwan, sponsored by Taishin Bank, offers a NT$1.5 million (S$64,382.34) grand prize and an additional NT$1 million each for the visual arts and performing arts categories. Mr Tang said he and fellow judges are poring over submissions for the prize, due to be announced via livestream on May 24: 'We have three intense days of being locked up in the hotel to debate and give points.' The first foreigner to helm the Taipei Arts Festival in 2017, Mr Tang has served on multiple international art juries but he noted the rigour of the judging process in Taiwan: 'The accountability and transparency is insane. It's like sitting for exams!' He added: 'To return to Taiwan in this capacity is special to me. As I've oft-shared, Taiwan is the only truly horizontal society I've experienced where never once, in my years directing Taipei Arts Festival, was I asked to defend the function of art in society, or to define what contemporary art is/could be. 'It takes relentless work and years of many organisations and governance - including the high recognition conferred by Taishin Art Prize - for art to arrive at such an enlightened and celebrated level, to such an enlightened society.' Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
