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“Discover the remarkable rise of BTS, from idol outsiders to K-pop superstars! Meet the members, find out how the Bangtan Boys brought Korean culture into the global spotlight, and keep track of the band’s greatest moments over the years.”
As a Hong Konger who dove into the Hallyu wave (韓流) a decade ago, I have always leaned more towards K-dramas rather than K-pop. Yet, BTS, a name synonymous with global stardom, was impossible to ignore. I became genuinely intrigued by the group after learning that BTS was the first Korean artist ever invited to the White House, where they met with President Biden in May 2022. Watching a K-pop group step into such a significant political space and speak with confidence, made me realize there was so much more to BTS than catchy songs and choreography.
In the fall of 2023, I traveled to Seoul, where BTS’s presence was inescapable. From shopping malls to skincare shops, from bus stops to subway stations, their faces—RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—graced every corner. Jungkook, the “Golden Maknae”, dominated headlines with his solo debut single “Seven”, released in July 2023. During my trip to Seoul, the Jungkook phenomenon was in full swing. That November, Jungkook surprised his fans with a pop-up concert in New York’s Times Square. Announced mere hours before, the event drew thousands to the streets and over 280,000 virtual viewers worldwide. Around the same time, I stumbled across a music video featuring V (Taehyung) and his beloved Pomeranian, Yeontan, affectionately called Tannie. The sight of Tannie’s cute and calm demeanor on stage melted my heart. Now that Tannie is gone, I will always remember his little face and the love that pets bring to our lives.
In winter 2023, I visited Bangkok, another city swept by the Hallyu wave. BTS’s influence was just as potent there. I could not resist the urge to grab a few boxes of chewing gum simply because Jungkook’s and Taehyung’s handsome faces were on the packaging. It was a proof of how deeply BTS had embedded themselves into pop culture across Asia. Even the smallest items became souvenirs of their worldwide influence.
For newcomers, this magazine serves as an excellent gateway into the world of BTS. It presents a well-rounded overview of their formation, trainee days, rise to stardom, international success, solo projects, and military enlistments. The content is informative and ideal for those curious about what makes BTS such a cultural force. For longtime ARMYs, it is a profound reminder of the group’s growth, resilience, and unforgettable milestones.