Yet To Come

By Hannah Cameron

Have you ever heard of BTS or Bangtan Sonyedan? BTS debuted on June 12, 2013, under Bighit labels, now called Hybe. However, debuting under K-pop agencies is a challenging task. Many professional k-pop idols struggle in many ways. Most companies have rules that cause idols to watch their weight, their language, no public dating, no drinking, and much more. This has led to eating disorders and other unhealthy lifestyles for many of these idols.

According to Katie Baille, during the Blood, Sweat, and Tears area, Jimin passed out in dance rehearsals. Although it was difficult, many of the members worked hard for their dreams. Kim Namjoon, the first member to join BTS and the group leader, didn’t have an easy life as a rapper. His mother had broken his microphone to continue his studies instead. Yet Namjoon convinced Jungkook, the group’s youngest member, to join by being “cool,” as Jungkook recalls. Yet Namjoon states otherwise to Jimmy Fallon,

“Thank you, but Jungkook, when I first saw him, I was only wearing my underwear when I first saw him.” Namjoon, better known as Rm or Rap Monster, said that Jungkook showed up at his home and introduced himself when he wasn’t prepared. While the rest of the members continued their rocky path through the performing arts, such as Yoongi, known as Gloss at the time, Hoseok, and Jimin, who were both dancers, not all of the members wanted to join the group.

Taehyung originally came to support a classmate who was auditioning but was later disappointed that they had chosen Taehyung instead. He was the last member formally introduced with the stage name “V,” representing victory. He stated that his intention was actually to become a farmer instead. Jin had a similar experience when being asked at the bus stop to join the group because of his good looks. Jin constantly refers to himself as “Worldwide Handsome” with a smile and a windshield-wiper-like laugh.

BTS is mainly known for their incredible dance skills and inspiring message that dominates the music industry, so much so that RM was invited to speak at the United Nations. Fans, young and old, are dedicated to the message brought on by the seven members. The fanbase known as the Army, Adorable representative m.c for the youth, is dedicated. BTS had initially asked people to come to their concerts by handing out fliers on the streets; now, thousands are paying to go to their shows. All K-pop concerts have their lightstick. Even the president of Korea has his lightstick and a photo card! Lighsticks vary depending on the group. For example, BTS’ is called an army bomb. Authentic army bombs are bright and are used during concerts to wave around. When in sync, the army bomb brings together an ‘ocean’ of people, forming an “ocean” of light in the crowd.

While this is a desire for every army to have a lightstick, this isn’t the only collectible. BTS has many products and collaborations, such as Samsung, Lego, and Funko Pop, Line friends is one of the most popular BTS collaborations. Each member has a character representing themselves; Koya, RJ, Shooky, Mang, Chimmy, Tata, Kooky, and Van, who represents the army. These characters have plushies, hats, cups, and even dedicated stores in New York and Los Angeles that sell merchandise and have giant statues of the characters. BTS has also dominated the food industry by making BTS meals. It includes chicken nuggets, fries, and two unique sauces available only for a limited time. Whether you need a cell phone, a bite to eat, or fun collectibles, this band has it all.

Fans were divided after hearing the news of the group’s decision to enroll in the military. According to Anne Fleck, men are required to serve from around eighteen to twenty-one months if able. While the group had postponed their duties, Jin decided to be the first to join. Armies were both proud yet sad about the decision. While they respected their decision to attend to their duty to serve, they felt their absence for that period was problematic. A little before this, BTS released “Yet to Come,” sending a comforting message to the fans and reminding them of all the music and accomplishments they have created over the years, and they only keep looking forward to the future. With heavy hearts, the armies are told to look forward to the future.

BTS has changed the lives of many. BTS truly is an open door for so many people. It doesn’t matter about your race, religion, or your age. You will be accepted into an ever-growing family of people who cheer for self-appreciation and positive messages. Despite hard times, their music has become a shelter for many. As the armies join hand in hand to celebrate their love for these seven boys, they are comforted that this is not the end and the best is genuinely “Yet to come.”