BTS: Global Pop Icons Representing Korea
Debuting in 2013, BTS quickly rose to stardom, earning multiple rookie-of-the-year awards in Korea and abroad.
Over the years, they have cemented their reputation as one of the most influential boy bands in the world, often referred to as the “21st-century pop icons.”
BTS has topped major global music charts, including Billboard in the U.S., the UK Official Chart, Japan’s Oricon, as well as iTunes, Spotify, and Apple Music rankings.
Their record-breaking achievements span album sales, music video views, and social media engagement.
BTS made history as the first group to top both Billboard’s “Hot 100” and “Billboard 200” charts in the same week.
They have reached No.1 on the Billboard 200 five times and on the Hot 100 four times.
The group also became the first Korean act to perform solo at the Grammy Awards, completing a rare trifecta of performances across the Billboard Music Awards, the American Music Awards, and the Grammys—the three biggest stages in the U.S. music industry.
Beyond music, BTS continues to influence culture worldwide.
Their sold-out stadium tours set new milestones in the global concert scene, and their participation in meaningful initiatives such as the LOVE MYSELF campaign and speeches at the United Nations reflect their commitment to social good.
BTS Members: Profile Highlights
RM (Kim Namjoon)
- Born: September 12, 1994
- Known for: Calm personality and introspective mindset
- Hobbies: Reading, visiting exhibitions, bonsai cultivating, long walks
SUGA (Min Yoongi)
- Born: March 9, 1993
- Known for: Sharp lyricism and producing skills
- Hobbies: Basketball, composing music
JIN (Kim Seokjin)
- Born: December 4, 1992
- Known for: Playful humor and powerful vocals
- Hobbies: Making people laugh, teasing younger members
J-HOPE (Jung Hoseok)
- Born: February 18, 1994
- Known for: High energy, dance, and cheerful spirit
- Hobbies: Gaming, spreading positivity
JIMIN (Park Jimin)
- Born: October 13, 1995
- Known for: Expressive performances and warmth
- Hobbies: Listening to music, spending time with friends
V (Kim Taehyung)
- Born: December 30, 1995
- Known for: Deep vocals and unique artistic taste
- Hobbies: Art appreciation, music listening
JUNGKOOK (Jeon Jungkook)
- Born: September 1, 1997
- Known for: All-around talent and youthful energy
- Hobbies: Exploring new interests, photography
BTS and South Korea’s Military Service: A New Chapter
As of mid-June 2025, all seven members of BTS have completed their mandatory military service and officially resumed group activities together.
In South Korea, all able-bodied men are required to complete mandatory military service, usually between the ages of 18 and 30.
This national duty is seen as an important part of citizenship and is deeply tied to the country’s unique history and security situation.
The service period generally lasts about 18 to 21 months, depending on the military branch.
Like every other Korean citizen, the members of BTS have also fulfilled or are in the process of completing their military duty. The group chose to serve without seeking exemption, showing respect for national values and earning admiration both at home and abroad.
Most of the BTS members—Jin, SUGA, J-Hope, RM, V, Jimin, and Jungkook—have either completed their service or are continuing it as of now. Jin, the eldest, was the first to enlist, followed by other members at different times, so that their service periods would overlap as little as possible.
This thoughtful planning allows them to return as a full group in the near future.
Fans worldwide have expressed pride in the members’ decision to prioritize their responsibility while continuing to inspire people through their music and charitable work.
Their military service marks not the end of their journey, but rather a pause before a powerful new beginning.
Many cultural experts in Korea view BTS’s enlistment as a meaningful reflection of how global success and national identity can coexist harmoniously.
When they reunite after completing their duties, their story will likely stand as a proud chapter not only in K-pop history but also in Korea’s broader cultural narrative.
BTS World Tour Schedule (2026–2027)
BTS announced an extensive tour with 79 shows worldwide, covering Asia, North America, Europe, and South America.
The anticipation has been high since the dates were revealed, with additional concerts planned in Japan and the Middle East.
Major Stops (2026–2027):
- Seoul (Goyang): April 9, 11–12
- Tokyo: April 17–18
- Tampa: April 25–26
- Mexico City: May 7, 9–10
- Las Vegas: May 23–24
- Busan: June 12–13
- London: July 5–7
- New York (East Rutherford): August 1–2
- Los Angeles: September 1–6
- Santiago: October 16–17
- São Paulo: October 28–31
- Bangkok: December 3–6
- Singapore: December 19–22
- Sydney: February 20–21, 2027
- Hong Kong: March 4–7, 2027
This global tour showcases BTS’s ongoing influence as international performers and cultural ambassadors of South Korea.