Over the past decade, BTS has grown from a small-company K-pop group into one of the most influential music acts in the world. Known for their powerful performances, meaningful lyrics, and close relationship with their fans (ARMY), the seven members have built a global cultural phenomenon.
Arguably the biggest name in global pop – made a monumental return with their latest album ARIRANG, their first full‑group project in nearly four years since completing mandatory military service. The album title itself is rich with meaning. Arirang is one of Korea’s most beloved traditional songs, steeped in centuries of emotion and collective history. By naming their comeback album after it, BTS emphasized both their Korean roots and their evolution as artists in a world that has watched them grow from rookies to global icons.
Arirang debuted to massive global impact, topping charts and shattering records in its first week – including all 14 tracks simultaneously topping major music charts – while their performances and appearances around the world have reaffirmed their status as global pop trailblazers. But behind all the spotlight and spectacle are the individual stories of the members – journeys full of unexpected moments, challenges, and personal growth that helped shape not only their music but the group’s soul.
Here are 7 lesser‑known facts about them:
1. RM – Learned English By Watching A Sitcom
Before becoming fluent enough to lead worldwide interviews and speeches, RM taught himself English by watching the American sitcom Friends. His method was simple yet effective: DVDs with Korean subtitles, then English subtitles, and finally no subtitles – a self‑taught journey that now helps him bridge BTS with global audiences.
2. Jin – Discovered Getting Off A Bus
Before stardom, Jin was pursuing acting at university. One day, a talent agent noticed him as he stepped off a bus and encouraged him to audition. That chance moment jump‑started his path from actor‑student to global pop star.
3. Suga – Supported Himself With Delivery Jobs
Long before Arirang and massive stadium tours, Suga paid his way through trainee life with part‑time jobs, including delivering food by motorcycle. He once suffered a serious accident while doing this, a moment he later reflected on through his solo work – a reminder of the grit behind the glam.
4. J‑Hope – Nearly Quit Before Debut
At one point during their intense trainee years, J-Hope almost left the group entirely. It was RM’s encouragement – reminding him how vital he was to the team – that convinced him to stay. That decision set the stage for J‑Hope becoming BTS’s energetic dance leader and performance cornerstone.
5. Jimin – A Short Training Time, Big Impact
Unlike many K‑pop idols who train for years, Jimin trained for roughly six months before debut – one of the shortest periods among the BTS members. Despite this, his background in contemporary dance helped him make a powerful impression straight out of the gate.
6. V – Auditioned Just To Support A Friend
In a twist of fate, V attended his audition simply to support a friend – but was encouraged to try it himself. He did… and got in, ultimately becoming one of the most visually distinct voices and personalities in the group.
7. Jungkook – Picked BigHit Because Of RM
When Jungkook auditioned for entertainment companies, he received multiple offers – yet chose BigHit specifically because he wanted to work with RM. That decision helped form the BTS lineup that fans know and love today.
The challenges, the risks, and the choices they made along the way all add up to something bigger than any stage or award: a story of dedication, resilience, and connection that resonates with millions. It’s a reminder that success isn’t instant, and the path is rarely straight, but with determination and heart, something extraordinary can be created.
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