BTS member Jungkook recently sparked excitement among fans by offering fresh hints about the group’s much-awaited 2026 album, even as he found himself at the centre of intense online controversy. The singer went live to connect with fans and speak about music, choosing to focus on BTS’s creative journey amid widespread rumours linking him to aespa’s Winter and the backlash that followed. Jungkook talks about grand comeback During the livestream, Jungkook shared insights into the group’s ongoing preparations for their comeback. He revealed that the members are currently reviewing songs with a strong emphasis on how they would translate on stage. According to him, several tracks already feel performance-ready, with choreography playing a key role in the decision-making process. At first, he mentioned two or three songs, then corrected himself, hinting that there could be even more tracks suited for live performances, raising anticipation about the scale of the upcoming album. One of the most notable revelations was Jungkook’s explanation of the album’s structure. He said the project would not follow the traditional K-pop formula of revolving around a single, clearly defined title track. Instead, the album is designed to feel more fluid and cohesive, with multiple songs carrying equal weight. While there is one track that comes closest to being a title song, Jungkook suggested that the album as a whole should be experienced as a complete body of work rather than centered on one standout single. The timing of Jungkook’s livestream was significant, as it came during a wave of speculation surrounding alleged dating rumours between him and Winter. These rumours, fuelled by online theories and supposed visual “clues,” quickly escalated, leading to harassment and heated debates across social media platforms. Some fans even staged protests outside the group’s agency, expressing anger and demanding explanations, while others criticised the extreme reactions. Jungkook ignores the dating rumours Both Jungkook and Winter became targets of online abuse, with malicious comments flooding their social media accounts. In response, Winter’s agency announced strong legal action against those spreading false information and hateful content, highlighting the growing concern around fan culture crossing personal boundaries. Despite the chaos, Jungkook refrained from addressing the rumours directly. Instead, he kept the conversation centred on BTS’s music and future plans, subtly reminding fans of the group’s artistic priorities and shared vision. His calm and professional approach resonated with many supporters, who praised him for staying focused during a turbulent period. As BTS moves closer to their return, Jungkook’s comments have only heightened curiosity about what the group has in store. The 2026 album now promises not just new music but a refreshed creative direction that reflects the group’s evolution after their hiatus.
16 December,2025 07:18 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA clip from Simon Cowell: The Next Act featuring a pre-debut boy band. December 10 sparked an internet inferno, not because of what was stated, but because of how precisely it feeds the outrage economy. In the viral moment, one member of his pre-debut band slams BTS as "terrible" while boasting that his own group could "sell out Pluto," which immediately garnered the ire of ARMYs worldwide. Simon Cowell's band sparked controversy The casual reference to BTS's live concert legend fueled the uproar. BTS's unprecedented Wembley Stadium sellouts in 2019 were more than just a marketing gimmick. They were the result of nearly a half-decade of tireless effort, years of grassroots fandom building, consistent touring, self-produced music, stories that connected across languages, and a steady rise from tiny venues to worldwide stages. Selling out Wembley twice was a cultural milestone for an Asian artist who primarily performed in Korea. That background is exactly why the joke fell flat. Many fans saw it as a mocking of the hard work, danger, and endurance required for BTS to reach that level in an industry that rarely accommodated non-Western pop groups. The video has since been interpreted as a textbook example of ragebait, which is content designed to elicit outrage, increase interaction, and draw attention, particularly by poking one of the internet's most organised and vocal fandoms. Fans slammed Simon and his band Many fans believe the pattern is familiar. Outrage increases attention; insulting BTS almost ensures virality. Context is traded for clicks; December 10 has yet to produce music, yet a single statement has catapulted them into the global conversation map. While ragebait can increase short-term visibility, it often undermines long-term credibility if audiences detect cynicism or overconfidence. Whether intentional or not, the moment demonstrates how quickly fandom emotion can be weaponised online, and how, in today's digital world, hype and hate are frequently two sides of the same coin. BTS is gearing up for their grand comeback in spring 2026. Time and again, RM, Jungkook and other BTS members have been hinting at how exciting their comeback album is going to be. Despite all the controversy and fear around the comeback, the bangtan is confident about their new album and their year long hard work.
16 December,2025 02:03 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentOT7 on a Friday was not on our bingo cards! But BTS offered ARMYs probably the best treat of the week when all seven members - Jin, J-Hope, Suga, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook - gathered for a beautiful group photo. Hobi, Yoongi, and Namjoon appeared to be in the mood to surprise their followers as they posted photographs on their respective Instagram stories. Kim Taehyung, however, had the best on the plate. He released a whole group photo, which quickly went viral. All of the photographs were shot in the same dance studio, where BTS is thought to be practicing. This also demonstrates how seriously they are preparing for their major return album and upcoming world tour in 2026. Suga shared the pictures Suga tweeted a snapshot of himself seated on a chair, with Jimin bending into the frame, holding a microphone. This might be dubbed Yoongi's return to Instagram. Meanwhile, J-Hope's mirror selfie featured V, while RM tweeted two photos of all the members scattered on the dance floor, doing their own thing and catching some breath. Later, RM released another cute black and white photo of Jimin, J-Hope, and Jungkook. ARMY gets emotional in comments Fans were unable to remain quiet as they witnessed the entire BTS in action. On X (previously Twitter), one user remarked, "Finally, all 7 in the same frame, my family is back." A second one exclaimed, "OT7!" I continued counting to be sure! Aaaaahhhhh! So many emotions. "Kings are back." A supporter tweeted: "They are preparing to save the music industry so no more boring, repeated and cringe lyrics songs, let's go." One admirer became emotional: "Every time Tannies posts an ot7 selca, seven years are added to my lifespan." ARMYs have also reacted to Yoongi's Instagram reappearance. A fan remarked, "I knew it had to be Jimin who Suga would post with initially. "My YOONMIN heart has blossomed." Another comment read, "Namjoon snapping the moment Yoongi decided to return for IG." RM recently shared another shot on Instagram from similar dance rehearsals. These photographs undoubtedly indicate that the group is working hard to meet the expectations of their fans, who have been supporting and waiting for them with bated breath for the past two years.
15 December,2025 08:49 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBTS member J-Hope has opened up about his life, future dreams, and the group’s eagerly awaited 2026 comeback, offering fans a heartfelt mix of humour, honesty and dedication. In a recent interview, the rapper-dancer spoke candidly about the group’s bond, their long-term vision, and the intense commitment they are putting into their reunion after completing military service. J-Hope wants to stay in band life till 60 One of the most heartwarming moments came when J-Hope revealed that BTS members often joke about forming a band even when they turn 60. While said playfully, the sentiment reflects something deeper, the group’s unshakeable brotherhood and the belief that music will keep them connected for life. For fans who have watched BTS grow from trainees to global icons, this light-hearted remark serves as a reminder that their bond goes far beyond chart success and accolades. J-Hope also touched upon his personal habits, admitting that he has a very specific and meticulous cleaning routine. Known for his discipline and precision in dance and performance, he shared that he carries those traits into his daily life as well. This glimpse into his personality once again highlights why he is often seen as one of the most organised and dependable members of the group. J-Hope shares update on reunion But the most anticipated update, of course, revolves around BTS’s upcoming 2026 comeback, a moment fans worldwide are counting down to. J-Hope confirmed that the group is fully focused on preparing for their return, describing the process as intense and time-consuming. He acknowledged that the members are making significant personal sacrifices, including limited time with their families, in order to deliver music and performances worthy of the group’s legacy and the global audience waiting for them. His words not only showcase their dedication but also reflect the pressure and responsibility the members feel as they prepare to reunite after years of individual activities and mandatory military service. BTS’s comeback is expected to be one of the biggest musical events globally, and J-Hope’s comments have only heightened excitement. Through humour, sincerity and passion, J-Hope painted a vivid picture of BTS’s future, one filled with hard work, deep friendship, and the promise of music that continues to evolve. For fans, his interview serves as both a reassurance and a spark of hope that the best of BTS is yet to come.
12 December,2025 09:19 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a recent interview, BTS member Kim Taehyung, aka V, discussed confidence and beauty, reminiscing on the times when he felt the most confident. Kim Taehyung, Kim Namjoon, Kim Seokjin, Park Jimin, Jung Hoseok, Jeon Jungkook, and Min Yoongi are presently working on a return album and a 2026 world tour. Aside from music, the members promote a variety of worldwide brands, including V, who was chosen global brand ambassador for a cosmetics company. BTS V shares his most confident moments During an interaction with the brand, the K-pop idol was asked to discuss a time when he felt the most confident or unique. V responded, "I've always felt most confident, natural, and appealing when I can show my true self. Whether it’s making the music I love, performing on stage, interacting with my fans or appearing in photoshoots like this." He further shared, "In preparing for this shoot, I got to share different ideas and communicate extensively with director Yoo Kwang Goeng and photographer Kim Hee Jun. From the overall concept to the makeup, styling, and hair, we put a lot of emphasis on capturing my natural self." V gives a glimpse of his Hawaii vacay Meanwhile, V provided a taste of his Hawaii trip. He visited the gorgeous region with his buddies Park Seo Joon, Choi Woo Shik, Park Hyung Sik, and Peakboy. In the images, he can be seen enjoying aquatic activities, taking selfies after a supermarket run, and striking goofy postures with munchies. The members of BTS are presently working on their much-anticipated comeback album. They plan to return in the spring of 2026. The South Korean boy band is also planning a major tour next year. Band leader RM stated that their upcoming album will include genres that they have not tried previously as a group. BTS' comeback is one of the most anticipated events for K-pop fans, and it will undoubtedly be a huge, larger-than-life moment. Recently, BTS member V went viral after sharing a pleasant interaction with his father on his YouTube vlog, in which his father emailed a photo of shoes he desired and V just told him to "just take them." Fans loved the friendly, hilarious discussion and praised their connection, describing it as an easy show of charm and "young and rich" confidence that soon circulated on social media.
12 December,2025 06:25 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBTS member Jungkook, whose relationship drama with aespa's Winter continues, opened up about his first love to fellow bandmate Jimin, and the video has since gone viral. 'Jikook,' as fans refer to them, can presently be seen on their vacation reality show, Are You Sure?! Season two began on Disney+ (JioHotstar in India) on December 3. Jungkook revealed far more than ARMYs imagined in his most recent episode 3, during a candid talk about life. Jungkook recalls his first love story Jungkook told how, during his early days as a trainee, while on a month-long program in the United States, he met his first love. "The first time I ever liked someone who wasn't Korean was when I went to the US for that month-long trainee program," Jungkook begins. JUNGKOOK TALKING ABOUT ONE OF HIS FIRST LOVE STORY TO JIMIN:🐰the first time I ever liked someone who wasn't korean was when I went to the US for that month-long trainee program🐥huh? Weren't you in 9th grade back then?🐰8th grade🐰it was a girl who was there for dance… pic.twitter.com/6T8wZpIZMB — Carolyne🌱⁷⁼¹ (@mhereonlyforbts) December 10, 2025 Jimin inquires whether it was class 9th. "Eighth grade," Jungkook corrects him. The Seven hitmaker continues, "A female was there for a dancing class, just like me. She was also really young. A student, like myself. At first, I thought she was quite attractive. Then I started seeing her frequently. Then the dance teacher instructed me, Jungkook, go talk to her just once! But I was like, How? I don't even speak English." Jimin, who has been chuckling and gushing throughout the story, asks Jungkook, "But if it were now?" He replies confidently, "Maybe I would go for it. I'll say 'Hello I like you!'" Fans react to Jungkook's love story Fans have been commenting on social media nonstop since they viewed the show and Jungkook's open revelations. An ARMY commented on X (previously Twitter), "Young love stories like this feel so pure, and it shows how genuine moments shape the person he became." Another replied: "Can you believe theres a girl walking around living life who was Jungkooks first crush and she doesn't even know it wow lol." Another added the following: "14-year-old Jungkookie getting shy of talking to his crush bcs he doesn't speak english is so him, so cute." A fan responded: "Awww this conversation between Jikkok about there love/like life is so wholesome. I like their bond where they don't even need to hide their true self." Another admirer exclaimed, "I love how casually and effortlessly Jungkook revealed that he had a crush on a girl back in the United States. He stated that if it were today, he would have contacted her, but back then, he did not know enough English to talk effectively. He's matured so nicely, and so has his confidence. A supporter responded with "jungkook struggling with a crush because he couldn't speak english.. i know your pain jungkook i live it with 7 different dudes." In the latest season of Are You Sure?! Jungkook and Jimin embark on a 12-day journey with a limited budget and a basic guidebook. The show's first season, which premiered in August 2024, followed their travels in New York, Sapporo, Japan, and Jeju Island, South Korea, prior to their mandatory military duty enlistment. Season 1 of the travel show remained the most-watched non-drama series worldwide for 42 days.
11 December,2025 05:26 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBTS member V, better known as Kim Taehyung, has once again stolen hearts by posting a series of candid photos from his recent Hawaii trip with his close-knit buddy circle, the legendary Wooga Squad. The singer shared the photos on his official Instagram account on December 9, giving fans a rare, close look at his off-duty times with Park Seo Joon, Choi Woo Shik, Park Hyung Sik, and Peakboy. Kim Taehyung drops fun pictures from vacation The photographs show the group in its most comfortable and natural condition, from soaking up the ocean waves and watching seaside sunsets to raising toasts and laughing together over meals. Far from the demands of celebrity, the photos captured the five's effortless comfort and brotherhood. Fans quickly flooded the comment sections, calling the bond “pure", “healing", and “friendship goals". Actor Park Seo Joon recently published photos from the same vacation on his own profile, demonstrating how close the group remains despite their hectic separate schedules. Fans have lauded their Hawaii album as one of the year's most wholesome celebrity friendship moments. All about Wooga Squad The Wooga Squad's tale began in 2016, when Park Seo Joon and Park Hyung Sik starred in the historical K-drama Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth. During the shoot, they developed a strong friendship with V, who played a supporting but memorable role in the series. Park Seo Joon's longtime buddy Choi Woo Shik eventually joined the inner circle, while musician-producer Peakboy rounded out the group. What began as a drama set connection quickly evolved into one of the most renowned celebrity friend groups in the Korean entertainment industry. The squad is known for taking impromptu travels, organising secret gatherings, and unwaveringly supporting one another's careers. They continually encourage each other, both publicly and personally, by visiting movie premieres, concerts, and drama sets. When V finished his necessary military service in June of this year, the Wooga Squad reportedly threw him a poignant welcome-back celebration. They had already done the same when he enlisted, expressing their special feelings for him as the group's youngest member.
10 December,2025 08:09 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentGlobal K-pop icons BTS have been honoured with South Korea’s Presidential Commendation for their long-standing philanthropic efforts, marking a historic moment for the music industry. The group received the recognition at the 5th Korea Good Donation Awards, becoming the first K-pop act to be awarded this honour for charity and social impact. BTS receives a prestigious honour The commendation recognises BTS’s LOVE MYSELF campaign, launched in 2017 in collaboration with UNICEF Korea. The initiative focuses on promoting self-love, mental health awareness, and the prevention of violence against children and young people. Over the years, the campaign has gone far beyond symbolic gestures, turning into a global movement powered by the group’s influence and the active participation of their fans, known as ARMY. Through donations from BTS, their agency, and worldwide fans, the LOVE MYSELF campaign has raised billions of won. These funds have supported programmes aimed at protecting children and adolescents from violence, improving mental health education, and providing resources to vulnerable youth across more than 150 countries and regions. The campaign has touched the lives of millions, reinforcing the message that loving oneself is the first step toward creating a more compassionate world. BTS expresses gratitude to their ARMY In their acceptance message, BTS expressed deep gratitude and humility, emphasising that the award belonged as much to their fans as to them. They highlighted how ARMY’s consistent support and shared values helped transform the campaign from an idea into a global force for good. The group reiterated their belief that music and influence carry responsibility, and that positive change is most powerful when people come together. The honour arrives at a meaningful time for BTS, as all seven members have now completed their mandatory military service and are preparing for their next chapter as a group. While fans eagerly await new music and future projects, the Presidential Commendation stands as a reminder that BTS’s legacy extends well beyond charts and sold-out arenas. By receiving one of the nation’s highest civic recognitions, BTS have once again shown that their impact is not limited to entertainment. Their commitment to empathy, generosity, and social responsibility continues to inspire fans around the world, proving that global stardom and genuine compassion can go hand in hand.
10 December,2025 07:41 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentDays after BTS member Jungkook and aespa member Winter's romance scandal made news again, SM Entertainment issued a statement, which many interpret as a reaction from Winter's end to the situation. It comes as both BigHit Music and SM have taken a "no comment" posture on the controversy that has overtaken the internet, with reactions from fans and anti-fans. SM Entertainment issues a stern statement On December 10, SM Entertainment issued a severe warning over hostile internet posts aimed against aespa member Winter. It launched legal action against defamation, sexual harassment, and false rumours spread in the name of the K-pop singer. The statement read as, "We would like to provide an update on the legal actions being taken to protect the rights and interests of our artist, aespa’s Winter. Through valuable reports submitted by fans via ‘KWANGYA 119’ and our own monitoring, we are fully aware of the seriousness of the ongoing malicious posts and comments related to our artist (including sexual harassment, defamation, personal attacks, insults, invasion of privacy, deepfakes, etc.). In particular, we have identified numerous acts damaging Winter’s character and reputation, as well as malicious postings and sexually harassing content made with the intention of publicly slandering the artist, on platforms such as DC Inside, Women’s Generation, Nate Pann, Instiz, Theqoo, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube. After reviewing these posts, we will be expanding the filing of complaints in stages. Further complaint against malicious rumours and harassment Additionally, our company is proceeding with criminal complaints and civil claims against individuals who have created malicious posts about aespa on the platforms mentioned above. We have also secured large amounts of evidence regarding the creation of malicious rumours, repeated spreading of false information, sexually harassing posts, and mocking or distorted content produced and distributed through personal social media, online communities, and anonymous forums. We will be responding strongly and without leniency, so we ask that you exercise caution to avoid being involved in any such incidents. We will continue to make every effort in all areas to protect the rights and interests of our artists. Thank you."
10 December,2025 07:08 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentJungkook, the youngest member of BTS, has made it clear that he doesn’t want to be defined or limited as only a solo artist. In a recent interview, the singer shared his desire to remain free-flowing and constantly evolving as a musician. Rather than following a fixed formula, Jungkook said he wants to challenge himself, explore new directions and create his own path instead of being carried along by expectations. Jungkook doesn't want to be confined His solo journey so far has been nothing short of remarkable. Jungkook’s debut single Seven became a global phenomenon, topping major charts and introducing him to an even broader international audience. He followed it up with 3D, which further showcased his versatility and confidence as a performer. These releases firmly established him as a powerful presence beyond BTS, yet Jungkook insists this success hasn’t changed his perspective on who he wants to be as an artist. He said, “I want to be an artist who doesn’t get dragged by the flow, but creates the flow”. “I don’t want to be confined — I want to be an artist without limits.” With the release of his first solo album, Golden, in late 2023, Jungkook embraced experimentation. The album featured diverse sounds and mostly English-language tracks, reflecting his curiosity and willingness to step outside his comfort zone. It resonated strongly with listeners worldwide, proving that his appeal goes far beyond group identity. However, Jungkook views this phase as a learning experience rather than a final destination. Jungkook's career trajectory He shared that he is intentionally trying new styles and approaches, both musically and in performance, to avoid becoming repetitive. For him, growth comes from trying the unfamiliar and discovering new sides of himself. He believes that constantly evolving is essential to staying honest as an artist. Despite his solo success, Jungkook remains deeply connected to BTS. He has emphasised that his individual projects do not signal a departure from the group but are instead a way to grow so he can return stronger. Balancing solo ambitions with the anticipation of BTS’s future activities remains important to him, and he hopes to bring his personal growth back into the group dynamic. Ultimately, Jungkook’s message is simple yet powerful: he doesn’t want to be boxed into any single label. Whether performing as part of BTS or standing alone on stage, he aims to push boundaries, follow his instincts and continue evolving, staying true to himself while embracing every possibility ahead.
10 December,2025 05:51 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBTS's RM has made a heartfelt apology for the controversy surrounding his latest live broadcast, which went viral last week. RM addressed the incident with a new WeVerse post on December 8, which included a photo of himself drawing a heart for his supporters. He shared his emotions and the reactions to his earlier webcast in the message. RM had candidly revealed the struggles he and the other BTS members had faced over the years during that webcast, including occasions when they considered breaking up. There were mixed reactions, with some fans complimenting his sincerity and transparency, while others condemned the words as "disrespectful" to supporters. RM penned a heartfelt apology In his latest post, RM apologised to ARMY, explaining that he was irritated when he switched on the livestream and now regrets doing so. He also took the chance to inform supporters of his recent activities. In the post, RM penned, "I think I may have made a lot of ARMYs feel tired with the livestream two days ago. I'm really sorry. I got so many messages about it from people who were worried about me. I regret turning it on now, but at the time, I was just feeling frustrated. I'm sorry ㅠ Please look at me kindly, just a little. I'll focus on making music, practising choreography, thinking of new content, and sleeping well, and I'll just live like that." He further continued in a light-hearted post, "I'm going to take my driving test soon. Yesterday I put on the sticker for driving practice, and drove through all 4 practice courses. It was scary (but I didn't crash)." RM's revelation sparked controversy RM concluded the message on a positive note, writing, "And yesterday I watched the movie 'The Color of Pomegranates'. Also, my home inside is now finished, therefore I'll be returning home after half a year. I'll show you later, once everything is fully adorned." Here's what had happened, RM's live had some intense remarks regarding his thoughts on disbanding the bangtan. He even reacted on Jungkook's relationship rumours with Aespa's Winter. Meanwhile, BTS is prepping for its highly anticipated comeback next year, following a lengthy hiatus.
10 December,2025 12:08 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
