The members of BTS have been making music and bringing people together for a decade now.
South Korean boy group BTS debuted back in 2013 with the single “No More Dream.” Since then, the band has risen to the top of K-pop and global charts alike, taking the music industry by storm.
Though BTS is currently on hiatus—with some members already enlisted in their mandatory military service and others focused on their solo careers—the group still took time to celebrate this milestone along with their loyal fanbase.
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New music
Last week, to kick off a month of celebrations, BTS released a new single titled “Take Two.” All seven members participated in the recording of the song.
“The song conveys their appreciation toward ARMY for all the love you shower them with and their desire to always be together with you,” said Big Hit Music in a statement posted on Weverse, which is a platform where the company and its artists can reach out to fans.
“We sincerely express our gratitude to ARMY for making the 10th anniversary possible with your endless love for BTS, and we hope that ‘Take Two’ will become a precious ‘Gift’ from BTS to you all,” the statement continued.
The boys also surprised fans with a special live performance music video for the single. The members began the stripped down acoustic performance sitting down on stools. Behind them, the background shifted between various pastel hues (but mainly purple, the group’s official color).
Heartfelt messages
On Monday, June 12, members RM, Jimin, and J-Hope penned heartfelt messages to fans, thanking them for all the support during the past 10 years.
“It’s a really special thing to be enchanted by certain words,” wrote RM, the group’s leader. “Until a noun becomes a pronoun; when BTS becomes BTS and when ARMY becomes ARMY…There was a lot of rain and wind, and also love. We built our own world that no one could possibly understand.”
Meanwhile, Jimin highlighted the dedication it takes to support them through all these years. “I’ve told you ARMYs a few times already, it’s not easy to support and love someone and give them strength for no particular reason,” he wrote. “That is why I am able to understand how happy we are. You, who made us feel this way, should feel overflowing happiness and receive love.”
J-Hope, who is currently enlisted in the South Korean army, posted messages on Weverse and Twitter for fans who have probably been missing him. “ARMYs, you’re all doing well, right??” began the rapper. “To comfort all of you going through this Hobi-less time, I will send my greetings through letters on special days like this, even though it’s short!!”
Seoul turns purple
BTS’ global success has made a huge impact on the South Korean economy, from music sales to a surge in tourism. In return, the capital has made efforts to honor the K-pop group.
For weeks, several Seoul landmarks will be lit up in purple. This includes City Hall, multiple Han River bridges, the 123-story Lotte World Tower, and the cultural hub Dongdaemun Design Plaza.
All over Seoul, people will find digital displays congratulating the members. The postal service has also begun issuing stamps featuring BTS’ album covers to celebrate the group’s 10th anniversary.
If you don’t know where to start, the city’s officials are offering a guide called “Map of the Seoul.” The map highlights key locations that are specific to BTS, such as places where they’ve performed or filmed music videos.
BTS Festa
The weeks-long celebrations will culminate at BTS Festa, a festival for the group and its fans. The event will be happening on June 17 at Hangang Park in Yeouido Island, Han River. ARMYs will get to see several exhibitions, experiential spaces, and special programs catered for them.
BTS’ leader RM will be making an in-person appearance to spend time with festival-goers. Lucky fans who have an ARMY membership will be selected to attend the program. But not to worry, those who aren’t chosen can still view RM’s segment. Catch it through Weverse Live, TikTok Live, or on the BTS Live Screen to be set up at Hangang Park.
In the evening, the BTS 10th Anniversary Fireworks Show will light up the night sky for approximately 30 minutes. The event will feature narration from Jungkook while accompanied by some of the group’s most popular songs.
Banner image via Twitter @bts_bighit.
