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Korea Herald
31-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Documentary spotlighting BTS' Army screens worldwide
Documentary celebrates power of global fandom A new documentary film spotlighting the global BTS fandom, known as Army, has been unveiled. The feature-length film 'BTS ARMY: Forever We Are Young' runs for one week only from Wednesday through Aug. 5 at theaters worldwide. Co-directed by Peabody Award-winning filmmaker Grace Lee and K-pop scholar and director Patty Ahn, the documentary takes a serious and heartfelt look at the passion, solidarity and cultural impact of Army, a fandom of over 90 million people around the globe. The film was recorded over the course of three years across Seoul, Los Angeles, Texas and Mexico City. It captures the personal stories of fans from different corners of the world, including a Seoul-based dance instructor who teaches BTS choreography, attendees of fan-driven concerts ReactorCon and members of self-organized global fan communities since BTS's debut in 2013. Through these narratives, the documentary explores the deeper meaning and collective power of fan communities. The film premiered to a standing ovation at the South by Southwest festival in March, receiving widespread acclaim from both fans and critics. It has since been screened at international film festivals in Copenhagen, Mexico, Hawaii, Los Angeles and more.
News18
31-07-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
BTS' ‘Forever We Are Young' Documentary Celebrates The Power Of ARMY
Titled 'BTS ARMY: Forever We Are Young', the documentary premiered in theatres worldwide on July 30. The moment that BTS 's fans, aka the ARMYs, were waiting for is finally here! Titled BTS ARMY: Forever We Are Young, the documentary, which focuses mainly on their loyal fans, premiered in theatres worldwide on Wednesday, July 30. The 95-minute-long film, helmed by award-winning directors Grace Lee and Patty Ahn, follows BTS's fandom, whose limitless support helped the group to scale such heights of fame globally. According to the synopsis of the film, it 'dives into the passionate fandom that catapulted 21st-century pop icons BTS into a global household name." The documentary takes viewers inside the lives of BTS's fans from all over the world, including South Korea and the US, as reported by The Mirror US. From a BTS-focused ReactorCon in Lewisville, Texas, to a dance instructor teaching only BTS-related choreography to their students, the film captures how fans have helped the group to become one of the leading names in the industry. Through the documentary, the makers also highlighted that BTS's ARMY is not just made up of 'screaming teen girls", but comprises diverse people. It includes people of all ages, genders, cultures and backgrounds. The synopsis of the film further stated, 'The film captures the powerful spirit of activism and collectivism that make ARMY a symbol of hope and unity in our ever-fractured world." How Did BTS Become So Famous? The seven-membered group began their journey in 2013 under BigHit Entertainment (now HYBE). RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook first made hip-hop songs, but later they came to be known for their meaningful pop songs. One of the biggest reasons behind their unprecedented success is their loyal fanbase called the ARMY, which stands for Adorable Representative M.C. for Youth. In their early years, fans worked hard to promote BTS through every medium. They shared posts, made trends and even called up radio stations requesting them to play BTS songs. However, a fan shared in the documentary that their request would get turned down as BTS did not sing in English. And now, all thanks to ARMYs, BTS is a global name, having five Grammy nominations. ARMYs Impact Beyond Making BTS A Global Name Besides working hard to popularise their favourite boys, ARMYs have also come together for numerous good causes. In 2020, when BTS donated $1 million to the Black Lives Matter movement, their fans followed as well. The ARMYs also donated an equal amount to the cause. Back in 2017, BTS partnered with UNICEF to launch the 'Love Myself" campaign, aimed at ending violence against children and teens. Their fans quickly rallied behind the cause, helping raise significant funds to support the initiative. view comments First Published: July 31, 2025, 09:08 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Daily Mirror
30-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
BTS's K-pop fandom explained as new documentary lands in cinemas
BTS Army: Forever We Are Young is currently in cinemas, and tells the story of the band's devoted fanbase. Earlier this month, BTS fans were thrilled to hear that the K-Pop sensations will be returning next spring with their first studio album since 2020. For those eagerly awaiting new content from the group, a brand-new documentary has just been released. BTS Army: Forever We Are Young, now showing in cinemas, pays tribute to the dedicated fans who have propelled these 21st century pop legends to global fame. According to the film's synopsis, it "dives into the passionate fandom that catapulted 21st century pop icons BTS into a global household name. "We meet fans at a BTS-focused ReactorCon in Lewisville, Texas, a dance instructor in Seoul who only teaches BTS choreography, and fans who've been organising since 2013 to help BTS dominate the charts." The synopsis continues: "Defying stereotypes of pop fans as screaming teen girls, ARMY is an intergenerational, culturally savvy, and socially active movement that is as diverse as the world itself. "The film captures the powerful spirit of activism and collectivism that make ARMY a symbol of hope and unity in our ever-fractured world," reports the Manchester Evening News. Most pop enthusiasts are well acquainted with BTS, but how did their ARMY propel the band to worldwide recognition? How did BTS rise to stardom? Making their debut in 2013, BTS was formed under the K-pop label, Big Hit Entertainment. The seven-member band, made up of RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook, was initially conceived as a hip-hop group but later found success in pop music. Much of their fame can be attributed to their devoted fanbase ARMY, which stands for 'Adorable Representative M. C. for Youth.' During the group's formative years, the fandom was determined to transform them into a global sensation - and they delivered spectacular results. As revealed in the documentary, ARMY supporters would dedicate countless hours posting about the band across social media platforms. Additionally, devoted followers would ring radio stations persistently to promote BTS's tracks to broader audiences. However, their appeals weren't always welcomed warmly. "They'd (radio stations) tell us sometimes to request real music because they're not singing in English," remembers a fan featured in the film. Their unwavering commitment ultimately bore fruit as the band now holds five Grammy Award nominations. What else has ARMY accomplished? Besides their loyalty to BTS, ARMY has gained recognition for supporting charitable initiatives. In 2020, the fandom matched a $1 million (£755,680) donation made by the group to the Black Lives Matter movement. Previously, in 2017, BTS collaborated with UNICEF for the Love Myself campaign, focused on eliminating violence against children and teenagers. The ARMY rallied behind this mission and united to generate funding.
Time of India
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
'Forever We Are Young': Documentary on BTS ARMY hits theatres worldwide - All you need to know
Imagine being part of a movement so powerful that it transcends borders, languages, and cultures - that's exactly what BTS ARMY has achieved, and now their incredible story is coming to cinemas worldwide. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The documentary "BTS ARMY: Forever We Are Young " is set to release globally on July 30, 2025, giving fans everywhere a chance to see their own passion reflected on the big screen. This isn't just another music documentary - it's a heartfelt tribute to the 9 million+ strong ARMY community that has redefined what it means to be a fan in the digital age. Think of it as the ultimate validation for every time someone questioned your dedication to a K-pop group! From Seoul Dance Studios to Texas Fan Conventions The film takes viewers on an emotional journey across continents, showcasing ARMY members from Seoul, Los Angeles, Texas, and Mexico City. Co-directed by Peabody Award-winning filmmaker Grace Lee and K-pop researcher Patty Ahn, the documentary dives deep into the stories that make this fandom so special. What makes this particularly fascinating is how it captures the grassroots organizing that's been happening since 2013 - long before BTS became the global phenomenon they are today. From dance instructors in Seoul who exclusively teach BTS choreography to fans organizing ReactorCon in Texas, the film shows how ARMY has created its own ecosystem of creativity and connection. The documentary had its world premiere at SXSW 2025, where it received standing ovations and critical acclaim. It's since been screened at international film festivals in Copenhagen, Mexico, Hawaii, and LA, building momentum for its global theatrical release. A Mirror to Our Own Fan Culture For young people in our country, this documentary hits differently. Just like how we rally around our cricket teams during World Cup season or create elaborate fan theories about our favourite Bollywood stars, BTS ARMY represents that same passionate energy but on a global scale. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The film explores how fandom can become a force for social change and community building - something that resonates deeply with our generation's desire to be part of something bigger. The directors perfectly captured this sentiment: "There is no BTS without ARMY and no ARMY without BTS". It's a relationship that mirrors how our own fan communities work - whether it's supporting regional cinema or creating viral content around our favourite artists. What's particularly striking is how the documentary showcases the intergenerational and culturally diverse nature of ARMY. This isn't just teenagers screaming at concerts (though there's nothing wrong with that!) - it's people of all ages finding meaning, purpose, and community through shared love for music and the values BTS represents. 'BTS ARMY: Forever We Are Young' poster / WizOnsen A Celebration of Connection and Collective Power The 91-minute film promises to be an emotional rollercoaster that will make you "laugh, cry, and think". It's described as capturing the "powerful spirit of activism and collectivity" that makes ARMY a symbol of hope and unity. This documentary arrives at a perfect time, just as all BTS members have completed their military service and are preparing for their reunion. For the millions of fans who've been waiting patiently, this film serves as both a celebration of their dedication and a bridge to the group's next chapter.
Daily Record
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
BTS fans take the spotlight in latest K-Pop documentary heading to Vue Hamilton
BTS Army: Forever We Are Young explores the intergenerational, culturally savvy, and socially active world of the band's fans. It's been a big week for BTS fans around the globe, as the K-Pop sensation announced they will return next spring with a new studio album (their first since 2020's Be) and an accompanying world tour. For those itching for new content from the band, arriving somewhat sooner than the reunion is BTS Army: Forever We Are Young, a brand-new documentary celebrating the fans that helped catapult 21st century pop icons BTS into global stardom. Screening at Vue Hamilton from Wednesday, July 30, to Sunday, August 3, tickets for the screenings are on sale now. Not only that, fans will also be able to buy limited edition merch for the film – a themed reusable drinks cup and popcorn tin. The film travels the globe, showcasing fans at a BTS-focused ReactorCon in Lewisville, Texas; a dance instructor in Seoul who only teaches BTS choreography; and fans who've been organising since 2013 to help BTS dominate the charts. Defying stereotypes of the typical K-Pop fan, BTS Army: Forever We Are Young explores the intergenerational, culturally savvy, and socially active world of the band's fans. Tracy Wanless, general manager at Vue Hamilton, said: 'Without fail, our BTS screenings have captured the hearts of audiences, with thousands of fans up and down the country coming to Vue to celebrate the K-Pop mega-band. This documentary will spin the camera, focusing on the amazing fan base that has made BTS the global sensation they are today – we can't wait to share it with our customers.' * Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.
