Whether you’re a long-time member of the ARMY or just discovering the global phenomenon that is BTS, there’s always something new and fascinating to learn about this record-breaking K-pop group. From humble beginnings to international superstardom, BTS has captivated millions with their music, message, and magnetic personalities. But beyond the chart-topping hits and sold-out stadiums lies a treasure trove of lesser-known facts that reveal the depth, diversity, and dedication of each member. In this blog, we dive into 25 unique and verified facts about BTS—covering everything from quirky habits and hidden talents to historic milestones and personal stories. Get ready to explore the world of BTS like never before!
1. BTS Was Originally Called BPB (Bulletproof Boys)
Before the world knew them as BTS, the group was initially referred to as BPB, short for Bulletproof Boys. This name aligned with their original concept of being resistant to societal pressures and criticism, much like a bulletproof vest. Their first logo featured brass knuckles, symbolizing strength and defiance. It wasn’t until mid-2011 that they officially adopted the name BTS, which stands for Bangtan Sonyeondan in Korean, meaning Bulletproof Boy Scouts. This change marked a pivotal moment in their branding and artistic direction.
2. Jimin Composed the Melody for “Blood Sweat & Tears”
Released in October 2016, “Blood Sweat & Tears” became one of BTS’s most iconic tracks, blending sensuality with philosophical depth. What many fans don’t know is that Park Jimin played a crucial role in its creation—he composed the melody. His contribution added a haunting and ethereal quality to the song, which explores themes of temptation and duality. This showcases Jimin’s musical talent beyond his vocal and dance abilities.
3. Suga Keeps a Diary About His Dog Holly
Despite initially disliking dogs, Min Yoongi (Suga) eventually fell in love with his pet Holly, a toy poodle. His affection grew so strong that he began keeping a personal diary documenting Holly’s life and their experiences together. This transformation highlights Suga’s emotional depth and evolving personality, especially considering his typically reserved public persona.
4. RM Consults Gender Studies Professors for Lyrics
Known for his intellectual approach to music, Kim Namjoon (RM) takes lyric writing seriously. He has been known to consult with gender studies professors to ensure his lyrics are inclusive, respectful, and socially aware. This practice reflects BTS’s commitment to progressive values and RM’s role as a thoughtful leader who bridges academia and pop culture.
5. V’s First Dog Was Named Soonshim
Before adopting the famous Yeontan, Kim Taehyung (V) had a dog named Soonshim. This white dog was often seen in early BTS content and was part of V’s life during his formative years as an idol. Soonshim’s presence in V’s life reveals his long-standing love for animals and the comfort they bring him.
6. BTS Was Obsessed with Crossy Road
At one point, all seven members of BTS became obsessed with the mobile game Crossy Road. Their enthusiasm led them to follow the game’s developer on social media and even share their address to receive merchandise. After receiving the free items, they humorously unfollowed the developer. This quirky anecdote showcases their playful personalities and love for gaming.
7. J-Hope Won a JYP Entertainment Dance Competition
Before joining Big Hit Entertainment, Jung Hoseok (J-Hope) showcased his dance prowess by winning a JYP Entertainment dance competition. This early achievement affirmed his exceptional talent and helped pave the way for his future as BTS’s main dancer. His victory also demonstrated his determination and competitive spirit.
8. Jin Auditioned for SM Entertainment but Never Returned
Kim Seokjin (Jin) was once scouted by SM Entertainment, one of Korea’s largest entertainment companies. He attended an audition but never returned, believing the offer might have been a scam. This twist of fate led him to Big Hit Entertainment, where he became BTS’s eldest member and visual. His story underscores the unpredictability of idol recruitment.
9. Suga Has No Tattoos by Choice
Despite being a rapper—a genre often associated with body art—Suga has no tattoos. He has stated that he prefers to keep his body clean and unmarked, reflecting his minimalist and introspective nature. His decision stands out in the K-pop industry, where tattoos are increasingly common among idols.
10. Jimin Knows How to Sew
Among his many talents, Jimin is also skilled in sewing. He learned this craft during his trainee days, possibly as a way to personalize his wardrobe or relieve stress. This lesser-known skill adds to his image as a multi-talented artist with a keen eye for detail and aesthetics.
11. Jin Modeled for Etude House Before BTS Debut
Before stepping into the spotlight as BTS’s visual and vocalist, Kim Seokjin (Jin) had a brief stint in modeling. He worked with Etude House, a popular Korean beauty brand known for its youthful and vibrant aesthetic. His naturally symmetrical features and glowing skin made him an ideal candidate for skincare and makeup promotions. This early exposure to the beauty industry helped Jin become comfortable in front of the camera and laid the foundation for his later success as a global brand ambassador and fashion icon.
12. V Used to Cut Holes in His Clothes to Mimic Designer Fashion
In BTS’s early years, Kim Taehyung (V) was known for his unique and experimental fashion sense. Without access to high-end designer clothing, he would cut holes in his shirts and pants to replicate the distressed and avant-garde styles seen on runways. This DIY approach to fashion not only showcased his creativity but also reflected the group’s humble beginnings. V’s bold style eventually caught the attention of global fashion houses, and he has since become a muse for brands like CELINE and Gucci.
13. Jimin Was a Street Dance Champion and Had the Shortest Trainee Period
Park Jimin entered Big Hit Entertainment with an impressive background in dance. He was a street dance champion in Busan and had formal training in contemporary dance at Busan High School of Arts. Despite joining BTS last, he had the shortest trainee period—just 6 months—before debuting in June 2013. His rapid development and adaptability made him an essential part of BTS’s choreography team, and his performances continue to be praised for their precision and emotion.
14. Jungkook Appeared on The King of Masked Singer at Age 18
In 2016, Jeon Jungkook appeared on the popular Korean show The King of Masked Singer, where contestants perform anonymously behind elaborate masks. At just 18 years old, Jungkook stunned audiences with his vocal range and emotional delivery, proving that BTS was more than just synchronized dance and visuals. His appearance helped break stereotypes about idol singers and showcased the group’s musical depth.
15. Suga Ran a Fansite Called “Suga’s Sight” Pre-Debut
Before becoming BTS’s lead rapper and producer, Min Yoongi (Suga) was active in the underground hip-hop scene in Daegu. He even ran a fansite called “Suga’s Sight”, where he uploaded photos from fan events and performances. This early engagement with fan culture gave him a unique perspective on audience interaction and helped shape BTS’s fan-first philosophy. His experience with photography and digital media also contributed to the group’s visual storytelling.
16. BTS Rewrote the Meaning of “Dream Glow” Sent by Charli XCX
The song “Dream Glow”, released in 2019 as part of the BTS World soundtrack, was originally sent by Charli XCX with a different lyrical theme. BTS, particularly Jin, Jimin, and Jungkook, collaborated to rewrite the lyrics, transforming it into a song about pursuing dreams despite obstacles. This creative reinterpretation aligned with BTS’s overarching message of resilience and self-belief, and the track became a fan favorite for its uplifting tone and harmonious vocals.
17. J-Hope Maintained a Dance Blog Before Debut
Before debuting with BTS, J-Hope was deeply immersed in the dance community. He maintained a dance blog where he analyzed choreography styles, shared tutorials, and praised fellow dancers. His blog served as a platform for learning and inspiration, and it showcased his analytical approach to movement. This background helped him become BTS’s main dancer and choreographic leader, often assisting in refining group routines.
18. Jin Had a Food Blog Where He Shared Recipes
Jin is known among fans for his culinary skills and love of food. Before BTS’s rise to fame, he ran a food blog where he posted recipes, cooking tips, and reviews of dishes he tried. His passion for cooking became a recurring theme in BTS content, from VLive broadcasts to variety shows. Jin’s food blog not only highlighted his domestic talents but also helped fans connect with him on a personal level.
19. Suga Loves Bath Bombs and Once Mistook One for a Vitamin
Suga has a well-known fondness for bath bombs, often using them to relax after long days of rehearsals and performances. In a humorous incident, he once licked a bath bomb, mistaking it for a vitamin tablet due to its colorful and compact appearance. This anecdote became a fan-favorite moment, showcasing Suga’s quirky side and love for self-care rituals.
20. Jungkook Traveled to the U.S. for Dance Training in Summer 2012
In summer 2012, Jungkook traveled to the United States to receive professional dance training. He documented his experience in a blog titled “An Ordinary Maknae Trainee’s Dance Training Abroad In America.” During his time there, he studied under renowned choreographers and explored various dance genres, including urban and hip-hop. This international exposure greatly influenced his style and helped him evolve into one of K-pop’s most versatile performers.
21. RM Recorded an OST for the 2015 Fantastic Four Movie
In 2015, RM collaborated with American rapper Manny Phesto to record an original soundtrack (OST) for the Korean release of the Fantastic Four movie. The track, titled “Fantastic”, showcased RM’s bilingual rap skills and marked one of BTS’s earliest ventures into global media collaborations. This project helped introduce RM to international audiences and demonstrated BTS’s growing influence beyond music.
22. Several Members Worked as Backup Dancers Pre-Debut
Before their official debut in June 2013, Jimin, J-Hope, Jungkook, and Suga worked as backup dancers for other artists under Big Hit Entertainment. They performed at concerts and music shows, gaining valuable stage experience and learning the dynamics of live performance. These early roles helped them develop professionalism and teamwork, which became crucial in BTS’s tightly synchronized choreography.
23. J-Hope Wore Braces During His Trainee Years
During his trainee period, J-Hope wore braces to correct his dental alignment. This detail is often overlooked but contributed to his now-famous radiant smile. His transformation over the years—from a shy trainee to a confident performer—was both physical and emotional, and his smile has become one of his most recognizable features.
24. Jin Was Classmates with Mitchell Hope from Disney’s Descendants
While studying abroad, Jin attended classes with Mitchell Hope, the Australian actor best known for playing Ben in Disney’s Descendants series. This surprising connection highlights Jin’s international background and adds an unexpected Hollywood twist to his pre-idol life. Though they pursued different careers, their paths briefly crossed in academia.
25. RM Wrote “Party XXO” for GLAM, a Song with Bisexual Themes
Before BTS’s debut, RM contributed to the songwriting for GLAM, a girl group under Big Hit Entertainment. He co-wrote “Party XXO”, a track that subtly explores bisexual themes, making it one of the few K-pop songs to touch on LGBTQ+ representation. RM’s involvement in this project reflects his progressive mindset and willingness to challenge norms through music.
Frequently Asked Questions about BTS:
1. Who are the members of BTS?
BTS is composed of seven members, each with distinct roles and personalities that contribute to the group’s dynamic. The members are:
- RM (Kim Namjoon) – Leader and rapper, known for his intellect and fluency in English.
- Jin (Kim Seokjin) – Vocalist and visual, often referred to as “Worldwide Handsome.”
- Suga (Min Yoongi) – Rapper and producer, known for his introspective lyrics.
- J-Hope (Jung Hoseok) – Rapper and main dancer, known for his energetic performances.
- Jimin (Park Jimin) – Vocalist and dancer, praised for his emotive stage presence.
- V (Kim Taehyung) – Vocalist and visual, known for his deep voice and artistic flair.
- Jungkook (Jeon Jungkook) – Main vocalist and youngest member (maknae), known for his versatility.
2. What does BTS stand for?
In Korean, BTS stands for “Bangtan Sonyeondan”, which translates to “Bulletproof Boy Scouts.” This name symbolizes the group’s mission to resist societal pressures and criticism. In 2017, BTS expanded the meaning to “Beyond the Scene” for their global branding, representing their growth and evolution as artists who transcend traditional boundaries.
3. When did BTS debut?
BTS officially debuted on June 13, 2013, under Big Hit Entertainment with their single album “2 Cool 4 Skool.” Their debut marked the beginning of a journey from a small agency to becoming global superstars. Over the years, they’ve released numerous albums, mixtapes, and singles, steadily building a massive international fanbase.
4. What genre of music does BTS perform?
While BTS is categorized as a K-pop group, their music spans a wide range of genres including hip-hop, R&B, pop, EDM, and rock. Their versatility allows them to experiment with different sounds and themes. BTS’s lyrics often address mental health, youth struggles, self-love, and societal issues, making their music relatable and impactful across cultures.
5. Can BTS speak English?
The members have varying levels of English proficiency. RM is fluent and often serves as the group’s spokesperson during international events. The other members have been actively learning and improving their English, especially through global tours and interviews. Despite language barriers, BTS effectively communicates with fans worldwide through music, social media, and heartfelt messages.
6. What is the BTS fandom called?
BTS’s official fandom is called ARMY, which stands for “Adorable Representative M.C. for Youth.” The name reflects the strong bond between BTS and their fans, symbolizing loyalty and support. ARMY is known for its passionate engagement, organizing streaming campaigns, voting in awards, and participating in charitable causes inspired by BTS’s values.
7. Has BTS won any major awards?
Yes, BTS has received numerous prestigious awards both domestically and internationally. These include:
- Daesangs (grand prizes) at Korean award shows.
- Billboard Music Awards (Top Social Artist, Top Duo/Group).
- American Music Awards (Artist of the Year).
- MTV Video Music Awards (Best Group, Best K-pop). They were also the first K-pop group to present at the Grammy Awards and have received Grammy nominations, solidifying their status as global music icons.
8. Do BTS members write their own music?
Yes, BTS members are deeply involved in the writing and production of their music. RM, Suga, and J-Hope are especially active in composing and producing tracks. Their lyrics often reflect personal experiences, emotions, and social commentary, which adds authenticity and depth to their discography. This creative involvement sets BTS apart from many other pop acts.
9. What is BTS’s impact on Korean culture?
BTS has significantly influenced Korean culture and its global perception. They’ve helped popularize Korean music, fashion, and language worldwide. Their success has boosted South Korea’s economy through tourism, merchandise, and cultural exports. BTS has also served as cultural ambassadors, addressed the United Nations, and partnered with organizations like UNICEF, promoting messages of self-love and youth empowerment.
10. Are BTS members required to serve in the military?
Yes, as South Korean citizens, BTS members are required to complete mandatory military service. In late 2022, it was announced that the group would fulfill this obligation, starting with Jin, the eldest member. The remaining members are expected to enlist in phases, with plans to reunite around 2025. Fans have expressed support and understanding, recognizing the importance of this national duty.
