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The Star
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Big things soon as all of BTS returns
Long-awaited comeback: BTS' upcoming album would be their first in four years since 'Proof', South Korea's best-selling record in 2022. — AP BTS agency HYBE confirmed that the K-pop megastars would release a new album and go on a 'large-scale world tour' in 2026, with the group's livestream announcement of their return attracting over seven million views. The seven-member group had been on a self-described hiatus since 2022 while they undertook their mandatory military service – required of all men under 30 in South Korea due to tensions with the nuclear-armed North. Now discharged from service, the septet 'will travel to the United States in July to begin preparations for the new album and tour all together', HYBE said in a statement yesterday. BTS announced their official comeback during a live broadcast on Tuesday, the first livestream with all seven members in nearly three years. The livestream attracted more than 7.3 million real-time views, according to the agency. Group leader RM, whose real name is Kim Nam-joon, said during the livestream that the new album 'is officially set to be released next spring'. 'Starting next spring, we'll of course be going on tour, so please look forward to seeing us all around the globe,' he added. Their comeback album would be their first in four years since Proof, which was the best-selling album of 2022 in South Korea, with nearly 3.5 million copies sold. Before their military service, BTS generated more than 5.5 trillion won (RM17bil) in yearly economic impact, according to the Korea Culture and Tourism Institute. That accounts for roughly 0.2% of South Korea's total GDP, according to official data. BTS is the 'bedrock of South Korea's soft power,' Kim Yang-hee, an economics professor at Daegu University, said. 'South Korea's soft power is being led by the private sector, best exemplified by the success of BTS and Squid Game, but it needs the support of public sector for democratic values such as freedom of expression,' Kim said. Last year's political upheaval spurred by a martial law declaration 'dealt a blow to such values', she added. BTS, known for backing progressive causes, holds the record as the most-streamed group on Spotify, and became the first K-pop act to top both the Billboard 200 and the Billboard Artist 100 charts in the United States. There had been debate over whether BTS should be granted exemptions from military service – sometimes granted to Olympic medallists and classical artists who win top international awards – but pop stars do not qualify under South Korean laws. With the lack of public consensus on the matter, the members enlisted individually, beginning in late 2022. — AFP
India Today
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- India Today
BTS RM's emotional letter on band's 12th anniversary moves fans to tears
South Korean boy band BTS celebrated their 12th anniversary on June 13, and leader Kim Nam-joon, better known as RM, marked the occasion with a deeply emotional letter to fans. Reflecting on the group's journey, RM admitted he never imagined they would reach this milestone, expressing profound gratitude and a touching and introspective post on Weverse, RM thanked ARMY for their unwavering support over the years. He acknowledged the challenges BTS faced, celebrated their growth both as artists and as individuals, and shared his hope and determination for the road Birthday, BTS. 6/13 is here again. I can't believe it's June 13 again. I've been waiting, waiting, really waiting,' he wrote. Adding, 'The 12th anniversary. 12 years old! It feels like my niece from the multiverse. I'm glad you grew up well. Listen to your parents - well, maybe just a little (sic)." Read the full post here:OMG NAMJOON VIA WEVERSE#BTS12thAnniversary BTS Charts Daily (@btschartsdailyc) June 12, 2025The post struck a chord with fans worldwide. As translations surfaced on social media, ARMY poured in emotional reactions - some teary-eyed, others overjoyed - celebrating the bond they've shared with BTS for over a 12th anniversary is especially meaningful this year, as it marks the group's reunion following the completion of military service by Jin, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook. Only Suga remains in service and is expected to be discharged annual FESTA celebrations, which began on May 31, will culminate in a special two-day fan event at KINTEX Exhibition Center 2 in Goyang, South Korea, on June 13 and their debut in 2013, BTS has grown into a global cultural force, with music and messages that continue to inspire millions around the world.
Barnama
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Barnama
BTS' RM Expresses Readiness For Group's Return Following Military Discharge
BTS' RM gives a salute to his fans at a park in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, on June 10, 2025, after being discharged from South Korea's mandatory military service the same day. (Yonhap) SEOUL, June 13 (Bernama-Yonhap) -- RM, the leader of K-pop megagroup BTS, on Friday expressed strong anticipation for the group's long-awaited return to the music scene, following his recent completion of South Korea's mandatory military service. His remarks came as the group marked its 12th debut anniversary, Yonhap News Agency reported. "We will truly try to do even better once more," RM wrote on the K-pop fan community platform Weverse. "I'm going to try to go somewhere again, though I don't know where. I just want to walk romantically together." bootstrap slideshow The Grammy-nominated septet has been on hiatus from group projects since mid-2022, as members enlisted in the military to fulfil their mandatory service. South Korea requires all able-bodied men to serve between 18 to 21 months in the military. RM, whose real name is Kim Nam-joon, was discharged on Tuesday alongside fellow member V, joining Jin and J-Hope, who completed their service last year. The remaining member, Suga, is scheduled to complete his service on June 21, raising hopes of a full-group comeback within this year. In his Weverse message, RM reflected on his time away and thanked fans for their patience. "I'm going to push through all the bushes and try adventuring into tomorrow again like Huckleberry Finn," he wrote. "At every daunting crossroads, I was able to endure and keep walking thanks to all of you. I'm truly grateful," he said, expressing his appreciation to the fans who stood by his side.
News18
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
BTS Members: Know The K-Pop Stars' Real Names, Net Worth And More
Last Updated: Whether you are a new fan or a longtime ARMY, here's everything you need to know about the members of BTS. BTS members have gained significant prominence over the last few years, making K-pop, a global sensation. Since their debut in 2013, the K-pop brand has captured the hearts of millions with their music, powerful performances, and authentic personalities. Whether you are a new fan or a longtime ARMY, here's everything you need to know about the members of BTS. 1/7 BTS RM: Kim Nam-joon (RM) is the leader of BTS. He is known for his intelligence, deep lyrics and fluent English. He recently got discharged from the compulsory military service in South Korea. His estimated net worth is around $20 million. (File Pic)
Hype Malaysia
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
(Video) BTS Leader RM Shares His Mental Health Struggles & Challenges During Military Service
ARMYs (아미) rejoiced on 10th June (Tuesday) as BTS (방탄소년단) leader RM (랩몬스터) and member V (뷔) completed their 18-month military service. Their return marks a significant milestone in BTS's long-anticipated comeback, sparking widespread excitement and heartfelt celebrations across the global fandom. However, alongside the joy, concerns quickly emerged following reports of the hardships RM faced during his enlistment. Allegations of mistreatment have ignited outrage among fans. Many are now demanding accountability and stronger protections for public figures fulfilling their national duty. It isn't unusual for Korean men fulfilling their mandatory military service to share negative experiences. Over the years, public perception of conscription has grown increasingly controversial, from the lingering physical and mental toll it takes to the belief that it's a waste of time for young men in critical stages of their careers. Kim Nam-joon (김남준), also known as RM, began his military service on 11th December 2023. After completing five weeks of basic training at the Korea Army Training Centre in Nonsan, South Chungcheong Province, he was assigned to the 15th Infantry Division's military band unit. Upon his return, fans gathered in support, celebrating his safe discharge and the successful end of his nearly two-year commitment. The rapper held a solo live stream to openly discuss his military experience and the challenges he faced with HYBE during that time. He revealed that after releasing his solo album 'RPWP', he began suffering from insomnia. Being surrounded by what felt like 20 other soldiers made it nearly impossible for him to get proper rest. 'I mean, there were a lot of things happening outside the base. I remember thinking to myself, 'Oh, I'm going to die at this rate.' Like, I have to keep going with the daily schedule, but I'm running on no sleep,' he added. At one point, he went two days without sleep, which led to self-critical thoughts about his own 'weakness' and sensitivity. 'While in the military, I kept asking myself, 'Why are you so weak? Is this all you got? You've been through more challenging times already. So why… Why do you keep losing to things like sleep… Or the military…? You have to do better,' he stated, noting it was a recurring thought he had throughout his service. ARMYs have voiced their frustration at the toll this experience took on RM's mental health. Many pointed out that if it were anyone else, the government might have intervened sooner, or at the very least, shown greater care, especially considering the pressure placed on high-profile figures like RM. The lasting effects could impact his ability to perform regularly, as he may now need to prioritise rest and recovery. This isn't the first time an idol's mental health has suffered during military service, which only adds to the growing disappointment over the military's lack of concern for the well-being of its soldiers. Fans, however, remain steadfast in their support, relieved that RM has completed his service and now has the space to focus fully on healing. Here is the full live stream, or skip to 26:00 for his full statement: Sources: Koreaboo, hrcopinion Zaima Humaira contributed to this article What's your Reaction? +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0
