BTS: Did You Know?
BTS: Fun Facts & Untold Stories About the Global Superstars
BTS, also known as the Bangtan Boys, has become a global sensation, breaking records, topping charts, and redefining what it means to be a pop group. With their infectious music, stunning choreography, and dedication to connecting with their fans (ARMY), BTS has left an indelible mark on the music industry. While their success and massive popularity are well-documented, there are some lesser-known stories and fun facts about the group that even die-hard fans might not know.
Here are some fun facts and untold stories about BTS that offer a deeper look into the seven-member group’s journey to global stardom.
1. BTS Wasn’t Always the BTS We Know Today
Before BTS became the polished, chart-topping group we know today, their concept was very different. When BigHit Entertainment was developing the group in the early 2010s, BTS was originally conceived as a hip-hop group. RM (Kim Nam-joon) was the first member recruited, and the group's direction was set to follow a more underground, gritty hip-hop vibe, focusing on rap.
However, over time, the concept evolved. As more members were added, BTS shifted to incorporate pop, R&B, and dance elements into their music. This change opened up the door for their success in both the South Korean and global markets.
Fun Fact: BTS stands for "Bangtan Sonyeondan" in Korean, which translates to "Bulletproof Boy Scouts." The idea behind the name was to symbolize the group’s mission to block out stereotypes, criticisms, and expectations that hit young people like bullets.
2. The Members Lived Together in a Small Apartment
When BTS was still an up-and-coming group, the members lived together in a small apartment. It wasn’t the glamorous lifestyle that many might expect of future global superstars. The seven members shared a cramped space, sometimes even sleeping in the same room. Despite the lack of luxury, living together helped them bond and create a family-like atmosphere that still exists today.
Fun Fact: In interviews, the members often talk about how close they became because of their shared living situation. Even though their fame has skyrocketed, they’ve continued to live together (in much more comfortable conditions), showing how their bond goes beyond just being bandmates.
3. Suga Once Thought of Leaving the Group
Min Yoon-gi, better known as Suga, has been open about the struggles he faced in the early days of BTS. Before joining the group, Suga was an underground rapper in Daegu and was hesitant about being in a pop group. He even thought about leaving at one point because of the physical and emotional strain, especially after a serious shoulder injury.
However, his love for music and support from the other members kept him going, and he stayed with BTS. Suga has since become one of the group’s most prolific songwriters and producers, contributing significantly to their discography.
Fun Fact: Suga often jokes that he was tricked into joining BTS. He initially thought he would mainly be producing music, but he ended up being one of the main rappers and performers of the group.
4. V Was a Hidden Member
Kim Tae-hyung, aka V, was a "secret member" of BTS before their debut. While the other members were introduced to the public through promotional content and pre-debut activities, V was kept under wraps. This wasn’t because BigHit wanted to exclude him; they wanted to create an element of surprise for the fans when BTS finally debuted.
When V was introduced just before the group’s debut in 2013, fans were surprised but quickly fell in love with his unique personality and deep voice.
Fun Fact: V is known for his eccentric, 4D personality (meaning quirky and unpredictable in Korean pop culture terms). He’s famous for doing the unexpected, whether it’s through his fashion choices, offbeat humor, or spontaneous actions during live performances.
5. Jin Almost Pursued a Career in Acting
Before joining BTS, Kim Seok-jin (Jin) was studying acting at Konkuk University, one of South Korea’s top colleges for performing arts. He was scouted by BigHit Entertainment while walking down the street, and though he had no background in singing or dancing, he eventually became a vital part of the group’s vocal line.
Even though Jin’s main focus is on his music career now, his love for acting hasn’t gone away. He’s expressed interest in pursuing acting again in the future, and fans are eagerly waiting to see him on screen.
Fun Fact: Jin is often called the "Worldwide Handsome" by fans and even himself—a nickname that started as a joke but stuck due to his undeniable good looks and charm. His confidence and humor have made him a fan favorite.
6. RM Taught Himself English by Watching Friends
RM, the leader of BTS, is known for his fluency in English, which has helped the group connect with international fans and media. However, RM didn’t learn English through formal lessons. He’s mentioned in interviews that he taught himself English by watching the American sitcom Friends. He would watch the show with Korean subtitles first, then switch to English subtitles, and eventually watched without subtitles at all.
His self-taught English skills have made him a key spokesperson for the group, especially during interviews and public appearances in English-speaking countries.
Fun Fact: During an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, RM shared that Friends is still one of his favorite shows, and he’s watched it many times over the years to keep up his language skills.
7. J-Hope Almost Debuted as a Member of a Different Group
Before debuting with BTS, Jung Ho-seok, aka J-Hope, was an accomplished dancer and was originally training to be part of a different group. However, things changed when he joined BigHit Entertainment. During the early stages of BTS’ formation, there were doubts about whether J-Hope would remain in the group.
After some convincing and an emotional moment where the members expressed their support for him, J-Hope decided to stay with BTS, and it’s safe to say the group wouldn’t be the same without him.
Fun Fact: J-Hope was the third member to join BTS after RM and Suga, and he was the last to officially join the rap line. His bright personality and amazing dance skills have made him the group’s “sunshine.”
8. BTS Writes and Produces Much of Their Own Music
Unlike many other K-pop groups, BTS is heavily involved in the creation of their music. Members like RM, Suga, and J-Hope frequently contribute to songwriting and production, giving the group a level of creative control that sets them apart in the K-pop industry. This involvement allows BTS to convey their personal experiences and messages through their music, which resonates deeply with their fans.
Their albums tackle a wide range of themes, from mental health and societal pressures to self-love and empowerment. This authenticity and personal touch have been key to their success.
Fun Fact: BTS’ album Love Yourself: Tear became the first-ever K-pop album to top the Billboard 200 chart in the United States, marking a historic moment for both the group and K-pop as a whole.
BTS’s Journey to Global Stardom
From their humble beginnings in a small apartment to becoming global superstars, BTS’s journey is filled with determination, hard work, and brotherhood. Their dedication to their craft, their willingness to tackle personal and societal issues in their music, and their unique personalities have made them a phenomenon unlike any other.
As BTS continues to break records and spread their message of self-love and acceptance, their story serves as an inspiration to fans and aspiring artists worldwide. Whether it’s their quirky beginnings or their deep involvement in music production, there’s no doubt that BTS has left an indelible mark on the world of music.
One of BTS's most inspirational song lines comes from their song "Love Myself":
"You’ve shown me I have reasons / I should love myself."
This line embodies the central message of BTS’s Love Yourself campaign, encouraging listeners to embrace self-love and acceptance. The theme of self-empowerment and mental health is one of the reasons BTS resonates so deeply with their fans, the ARMY. The band consistently promotes the idea that loving oneself is a vital part of personal growth, and this line perfectly encapsulates that message.
Another powerful and inspiring line comes from "Spring Day":
"The morning will come again / No darkness, no season is eternal."
This line offers hope to listeners going through difficult times, reminding them that challenges are temporary and better days lie ahead. It’s a message of resilience and optimism, which has made Spring Day one of BTS’s most beloved and emotionally resonant songs.