BTS member V (Kim Taehyung) has sparked online debate after releasing shirtless teaser photos from his upcoming photobook, drawing mixed reactions from fans and netizens alike. The visuals, part of a larger photobook project featuring multiple concepts and moods, quickly went viral across social media platforms. Netizens criticise V for his photoshoot While many fans praised the aesthetics and artistic direction, a section of netizens criticised the teaser, questioning the intent behind the shirtless imagery. One viral post on X read, “Time to strip when the music ain’t selling,” suggesting that the visuals were being used as a marketing tactic rather than a creative choice. Another comment echoed the sentiment, writing, “Like HIS fans say, ‘when the music ain’t selling.’” The criticism soon gained traction, with several users accusing the singer of relying on physical appeal for attention. One netizen remarked, “I guess it’s time to strip when the music ain’t selling,” while others claimed the focus on his physique overshadowed the artistic value of the photobook. These comments were widely shared, turning the teaser release into a polarising topic online. However, V’s supporters were quick to push back against the backlash. Fans argued that the criticism was unfair and dismissive of his established success as a solo artist. Many pointed out that his previous projects have “sold millions of copies” and consistently performed well commercially, rejecting the idea that he needs provocative imagery to stay relevant. Several fans also defended the creative choice, stating that the human body has long been part of artistic expression. They stressed that the photobook includes a wide range of visuals and concepts, and that focusing on a single shirtless teaser ignores the broader narrative of the project. Supporters further noted that V has always experimented with fashion, art and visual storytelling, and should be allowed the freedom to do so without being shamed. All about his photobook As the debate continues, the reaction to V’s photobook teaser highlights the intense scrutiny faced by K-pop idols and how creative decisions are often interpreted differently by global audiences. Despite the backlash, anticipation for the full photobook remains high, with fans eagerly awaiting its official release.
07 January,2026 02:32 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSocial media was recently flooded with claims that Kendrick Lamar had given a shoutout to BTS and even confirmed a collaboration with member Suga, sending fans into a frenzy. Viral posts circulating online suggested that the rapper referred to Suga as “my bro” and hinted at appearing on BTS’ upcoming fifth full-length album, reportedly slated for release on March 20, 2026. The rumours spread rapidly, with screenshots and fan posts being shared widely across platforms, especially among ARMY and hip-hop listeners. Kendrick Lamar talks about BTS One of the most circulated posts claimed that Kendrick had openly spoken about featuring on the new BTS album, sparking excitement about a potential East-meets-West musical crossover. Given Kendrick Lamar’s stature in global hip-hop and BTS’ massive international influence, the idea of such a collaboration felt thrillingly plausible to many fans. Speculation grew around how Kendrick’s lyrical depth could blend with Suga’s introspective, hard-hitting style, making the supposed partnership even more enticing. Truth behind the collab rumours However, a closer look reveals that the viral claim lacks any official confirmation. Neither BTS’ agency, BigHit Music, nor Kendrick Lamar’s team has made any announcement regarding a collaboration. There have been no verified interviews, press statements, or credible reports supporting the claim. The entire buzz appears to have originated from fan-generated content, which was quickly amplified through reposts and assumptions. While the collaboration remains unconfirmed, what is certain is that BTS are preparing for a major comeback. The group is expected to release their fifth studio album in March 2026, marking their first full-group project after completing their mandatory military service. Reports suggest the album will feature around 14 tracks, with all seven members actively involved in the creative process. The comeback is also expected to be accompanied by a large-scale world tour, making it one of the most anticipated events in global pop music. The excitement around a possible Kendrick Lamar–Suga collaboration highlights how eagerly fans are awaiting BTS’ return and how quickly online speculation can snowball. While the idea of such a collaboration is undeniably appealing, it remains just that, speculation. Until an official confirmation comes from either side, fans are advised to treat the viral posts with caution and wait for verified announcements before celebrating a historic musical crossover.
07 January,2026 01:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBTS member Jungkook recently shared an honest glimpse into how he’s preparing himself for the group’s long-awaited comeback after nearly four years. Speaking about his current lifestyle, the singer revealed that his focus is firmly on discipline, health and building small but consistent habits. Jungkook talks about his routine Jungkook explained that he has been following a strict routine and diet. “These days, I’m on a diet and only eat one meal a day. So I really look forward to that one meal,” he said. Describing how this simple routine motivates him, he added, “I find myself thinking, ‘What should I eat today?’ and waiting with patience. When I finally eat, I feel a sense of achievement.” The singer also spoke about becoming more mindful of his health. “I’ve been trying to focus more on my health,” Jungkook shared, revealing that he regularly plays badminton and bowling and goes jogging. He admitted that he has consciously cut back on habits that don’t serve him anymore, saying, “I try to avoid things that are bad for my body. I used to drink, but now I’m trying to refrain from it. I want to use my time more meaningfully and cherish it.” For Jungkook, consistency has become the key. “Doing something consistently, even if it’s small, is more important than making a big effort just once,” he said. He added that maintaining routines like doing cardio both in the morning and at night gives him a strong sense of accomplishment and confidence. On his solo journey Looking back on his solo journey, Jungkook reflected on how important the song Seven was for him. “Working on the song ‘Seven’ felt like the most important and special moment for me. That song is what allowed me to continue working up to now,” he said. While he believed in the track, its massive success still surprised him. “I really loved ‘Seven’ and felt confident performing it, but I was still surprised by how well it was received. That reaction gave me even more confidence.” He also spoke candidly about lessons learned from his solo album GOLDEN. “After releasing my solo album ‘GOLDEN,’ there were things I wished I had done better, both in the songs and the performances,” Jungkook admitted. Rather than holding him back, he said those thoughts push him forward, adding that “those regrets are what motivate me to keep working harder and improving… This is a time where I can evaluate whether I can take another leap forward.” As BTS gears up for its comeback, Jungkook’s words reflect growth, self-reflection and a renewed determination to return stronger than ever.
05 January,2026 08:04 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentFans are beyond excited, Bangtan Sonyeondan, often known as BTS, is officially returning as a full group after years of anticipation, hints, military updates, and countless hypotheses. The euphoria is so great that even platforms are unable to handle it. BTS to launch their new album on March 20 Fans swarmed Weverse so quickly when BigHit Music (BTS agency) announced the comeback that the app apparently slowed down and momentarily crashed. March is going to be crazy if this is how pre-release pandemonium looks. On March 20, 2026, the largest boy group in the world will finally make their eagerly anticipated return after three years and nine months of waiting. After completing their necessary military service, all seven members, RM, Jin, Suga, J-hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—will reunite with their fifth studio album, which will be released at 1 PM KST. BigHit shared the news by writing, "This new album is especially meaningful as it marks the group’s first album release in approximately three years and nine months, while also presenting the direction the seven members will move toward going forward." According to reports, each member made a creative contribution during the break, shaping songs, concepts, and emotional observations. They stated that "The members were deeply involved throughout the songwriting process, infusing their own thoughts and colours, and expressed through music the emotions and concerns they felt during their journey." BTS new album consists of 14 tracks The 14 tracks on the album are positioned as a love letter to the Army. The album, which consists of 14 tracks, is filled with candid tales that BTS wishes to share with ARMY, who have been anticipating their collective return. "The album is their sincere way of saying thank you to ARMY, who have been there this whole time," the agency said. "It is filled with the music that is most true to BTS." BigHit confirmed a world tour, with specifics to be released shortly, as if a comeback wasn't enough. They claim that the announcement of the complete program is scheduled for January 14, 2026, at 12 AM KST. Record-breaking ticket demand is already anticipated by fans. Alongside the announcement, the official website and New Year's postcards teased a redesigned identity with three red circles. Massive teaser installations illuminated the Sejong Center stairs in Seoul, transforming the city into a billboard for the comeback and supporters into paparazzi. A special website for the album countdown has also been made public, suggesting that this comeback will write music history. When Jin and the other members of BTS enlisted in December 2022, the group's break officially began. The other members continued to serve until 2025, with Jin returning first in June 2024. Now fully reunited, BTS is back at the starting line, and based on the online frenzy, it appears that the most influential pop group in the world is poised to reset the scoreboard.
05 January,2026 02:52 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBTS member Jungkook has once again been at the centre of a troubling stalking incident, raising serious concerns about celebrity safety and personal boundaries. On January 4, 2026, the Seoul Yongsan Police Station arrested a Brazilian woman in her 30s, identified as “Ms. A,” for causing a disturbance near the singer’s residence in Seoul. The arrest came after she allegedly engaged in repeated acts that violated South Korea’s stalking laws. Brazillian woman arrested on stalking Jungkook According to police reports, Ms. A is accused of throwing mail toward the exterior of Jungkook’s home in the Yongsan-gu district. Authorities confirmed that this was not an isolated incident. The woman had reportedly been arrested twice in December 2025 for similar behaviour involving repeated visits to the same location. Due to the ongoing nature of the incidents, Jungkook’s side had previously requested a restraining order against her. Police are continuing their investigation to determine the full extent of her actions. This is the latest in a string of unsettling encounters Jungkook has experienced at his private residence. In June 2025, shortly after completing his mandatory military service, a Chinese woman in her 30s was arrested for attempting to enter his home by repeatedly trying to input the door code. Another incident followed in August, when a Korean woman was detained after accessing the underground parking area of the building under the guise of visiting a friend, before security intervened. Repeated invasions at Jungkook's residence These repeated invasions of privacy have sparked widespread concern among fans. Many have taken to social media to express anger and frustration, urging Jungkook’s agency to pursue stricter legal action and enhanced security measures. Fans have also called attention to the dangers of obsessive fan behaviour and the need for stronger protections for public figures. The situation has once again highlighted the darker side of fame, where admiration can escalate into harmful fixation. Despite these ongoing issues, Jungkook remains focused on his career. BTS is currently preparing for a major comeback, with plans for a full-length album release later this year, followed by a highly anticipated world tour announcement.
05 January,2026 12:17 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBTS recently rang in the New Year with a surprise group livestream that delighted fans across the globe. The members gathered in a relaxed setting, chatting freely, laughing together, and sharing updates about their lives and future plans. While the broadcast was largely lighthearted, one playful moment involving Jin and Jungkook unexpectedly sparked debate among fans online. BTS livestream sparks debate During the livestream, Jungkook was standing behind the sofa instead of sitting with the rest of the group. The members jokingly urged him to come forward and join them properly. J-Hope made an initial attempt to pull Jungkook onto the couch, but when that failed, Jin stepped in. In a spur-of-the-moment gesture, Jin lifted Jungkook and gently tossed him onto the sofa. As Jungkook landed, Jimin immediately reached out to support his head, and the members broke into laughter, treating the incident as a harmless joke between close friends. However, once short clips of the moment began circulating on social media, reactions from fans were divided. Some viewers expressed concern, arguing that the action appeared risky and could have resulted in injury. They felt the move was inappropriate, especially during a live broadcast watched by millions, and voiced discomfort over how Jungkook landed on the couch. This is not funny at all. It was very dangerous and could cause permanent damage. You all should condemn this. Something really bad could have happened to Jungkook whose whole life and career is ahead of him. Stop making jokes out of serious situations. https://t.co/0p90rz5fOx — The Tobirama Stan (@SilverTobirama) December 31, 2025 On the other hand, many fans came to Jin’s defense, pointing out the long-standing bond shared by the BTS members. Supporters noted that Jungkook appeared unharmed, smiling, and relaxed throughout the exchange. They emphasized that playful physical interactions are common within the group and reflect their brother-like relationship rather than any harmful intent. Several fans also highlighted how quickly the other members checked on Jungkook, reinforcing that his safety was never ignored. Here's how netizens reacted The incident reignited a familiar conversation within the fandom about boundaries, perception, and the scrutiny public figures face. What some viewed as an innocent moment of camaraderie, others interpreted as concerning behavior. Despite the debate, BTS continued the livestream without issue, maintaining the cheerful mood that fans have come to associate with their group interactions. Ultimately, the moment served as a reminder of how even brief, playful exchanges can be interpreted in vastly different ways once shared online, especially when involving a globally followed group like BTS.
03 January,2026 06:28 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentWith his few glimpses from the upcoming TYPE photobook, BTS member V appears to be taking things in an unexpected direction. The pictures that the K-pop singer has so far made public don't resemble Kim Taehyung at all. In fact, his hardly recognizable gaze has left fans stunned by the clicks. Along with his comrades Jin, J-Hope, Suga, RM, Jimin, and Jungkook, V had a fun-filled birthday on December 30. V has also been on the sidelines, experimenting with many fresh ideas for the photobook. Additionally, ARMYs have determined with ease that the clicks project V in an ostentatious and daring avatar. BTS V's new photobook Every picture shows Taehyung acting extravagantly. This 30-year-old has a completely different appearance than we have ever seen, complete with smudgy lipstick, colored lenses, blue makeup, and even spiked hair. Following V's 2024 debut TYPE 1, TYPE is a 278-page hardcover that explores fluidity and defies categorization in 20 chapters that he helped plan and photograph. Pre-orders were available on Weverse Shop and other websites starting on December 31, 2025, and they cost between 40 and 50 Dollars. Global shipment will start on January 19. There will also be some previously unreleased images in the photobook. Additionally, HYBE announced the immersive ON-SITE IN SEOUL exhibition, which would feature media art related to the book's topics from January 20 to February 1. ARMY reacts to the preview ARMYs reacted erratically. "The world of cinema is waiting for you, Kim Taehyung, and we're already making the popcorn," a fan commented on X (previously Twitter). You communicate by touching your heart and speaking without opening your mouth. "Kim Taehyung V's eyes always tell us so much," another person remarked. I'm eager to see what more he has planned for this new endeavor. "Taehyung is slowly unleashing his potential inside," an admirer wrote. He's definitely someone to keep an eye on." Another said, "Wow for hot bod. But even bigger wow for his mind blowing acting on that small concept video. I’m still feeling emotional watching the range of emotions of sorrow and melancholy in his face. Damn Tae is one of a kind." V is still the most well-known K-pop idol in the world, and their influence is growing daily. V is only going to add more features to his headgear in the upcoming year as fans anticipate BTS's major comeback with a new album and a world tour in 2026.
01 January,2026 06:27 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentGlobal K-pop superstars BTS have officially confirmed their long-awaited return as a full seven-member group, announcing a new album release slated for March 20, 2026. The comeback marks their first group album in nearly four years, following the release of Proof in 2022 and a hiatus during which the members completed mandatory military service and focused on solo projects. BigHit confirms BTS comeback The announcement came in an emotional and creative way. BTS sent handwritten New Year’s letters to members of their official fan community, ARMY, thanking them for their unwavering patience and support during the group’s break. The letters prominently featured the date “2026.03.20,” sparking immediate excitement and speculation among fans, which was later officially confirmed by their agency, BigHit Music. Adding to the buzz, all seven members appeared together for a special New Year’s Eve live broadcast, marking their first group New Year live in years. The reunion quickly went viral, with fans around the world celebrating the group’s visible chemistry and togetherness. The chaotic yet heartfelt live session further fueled anticipation, as members shared laughter, gratitude, and reflections on their journey. Fans love the chaotic weverse BigHit Music subsequently issued an official statement confirming the comeback date, putting an end to months of rumours surrounding BTS’s return timeline. The agency described the upcoming release as the beginning of a new chapter in BTS’s career, with full-group promotions planned following the album drop. In addition to the album, reports suggest that BTS are preparing for a large-scale world tour after their comeback. While official tour dates have yet to be announced, fans are already speculating about potential venues and cities, expecting the tour to be one of the biggest global music events of 2026. All seven members, RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook, have now completed their military service, allowing them to reunite as a full unit. Their return has been widely celebrated across social media platforms, with ARMY expressing emotional reactions and excitement over seeing BTS together again. As 2026 begins, BTS’s comeback stands out as one of the most anticipated moments in the global music industry, signaling not just new music, but the reunion of a group whose bond with fans has remained strong despite time apart.
01 January,2026 03:47 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentDid BTS recently hint to a potential return date? After the Korean fans of the K-pop group received a unique postcard that hinted at something no one anticipated, ARMYs have been talking about it. Although the postcard may appear unremarkable at first, admirers quickly discovered a date scribbled on it. This occurs as BTS gets ready for his upcoming world tour in the spring of 2026 and his major comeback album. Since its members—Jin, J-Hope, Suga, RM, V, Jimin, and Jungkook—finished their required military service by June 2025, they have been teasing fans with clues about their upcoming performance itinerary and new music. Despite the fact that HYBE has not yet released an official statement, ARMYs continue to wear their speculative glasses. ARMY decodes the New Years note A unique postcard with a new emblem on the front was delivered on December 30 to ARMY members in Korea with gold memberships. The date March 20, 2026, which was printed in little letters beneath the emblem, caught people's attention. Fans began speculating that this would be the date of OT7's possible return. On social media, many expressed their excitement. On X (previously Twitter), a fan commented, "ARMY right now deciphering using new clues.... we should have more theories soon." One more deciphered, "I knew it! This implies that the official return date is March 20. The announcement of the tour is likely to occur in the middle of January, on the 13th or 14th. Tickets go on sale at the end of January or in early February. BTS is on the way. I am unable to wait. LET'S GO. "Is this a hint for the BTS comeback?" one ARMY responded. because SPRING 2026 begins on March 20th, which is a Friday—the day that new music typically comes out! The three symbols were described by someone. Each member's handwritten messages in Korean, wishing ARMYs a happy new year Jin penned, "Hello ARMY. Happy New Year. I greeted you all as a soloist in 2023 and 2024, but I can finally greet you as part of a team again. Thank you so much for waiting. We will work hard with our promotions. Fighting." While J-Hope wrote, "Hello ARMY, the new year 2026 has arrived. Finally, it’s the year that we will all be together with you!! I’m already looking forward to it!! Finally, what I’ve been thinking of is becoming reality!! For real!! Happily and with joy!! Let’s be together. Let’s go!! ARMY!! BTS!!" Following them, Suga mentioned, "Happy new year ARMY!! The new year is starting again. I’m praying that things will be awesome for you this year as well. I miss you. Let’s have fun this year. I love you!! We’ll see you soon." RM added, "Finally finally finally. The year 2026 has arrived. The one who has been waiting for that year more than anyone. I’ve missed you all!! Bangtan is coming. BTS is coming!! Woohoo!!" Jimin and V were overjoyed, as Jimin wrote, "HAPPY NEW YEAR!! The new year is bright. Finally, the year that we can meet you all is here. We want to show our gratitude to the ARMY who are always beside us giving their support. I hope this year brings you more happiness than the previous year" To which V added, "I hope that 2026 brings you more and better memories! It’s been a while since we released an album but I hope you will look over us well, I have missed you! I hope today will also be a good day for you!" Jungkook then concluded, "Hello ARMY. This is Jungkook. Have you been healthy? I’ve missed you! I always feel the same way. I’ve been working hard as usual! Please look over us well in 2026 as well! Happy new year."
31 December,2025 05:03 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentHYBE, a South Korean entertainment agency that produces internationally well-known groups like BTS, TXT, SEVENTEEN, and NewJeans, is uncompromising in its abusive actions against its artists. The parent company's labels released updates on legal notices on Monday, December 29, confirming that the offenders of malicious conduct would face severe consequences. HYBE issues a lawsuit against offensive material against artists BigHit Music, BTS's agency, disclosed on Weverse that it filed a lawsuit against those who posted offensive material against its artists during the fourth quarter. The label upholds a stringent zero-tolerance policy against disrespectful statements, false rumours, AI-generated misinformation, and defamation. Additionally, BigHit Music said that police investigations and legal actions are ongoing in response to severe stalking and privacy violations that occurred close to musicians' residences. Jungkook of BTS has experienced these kinds of stalking events on multiple occasions. “As part of these efforts, we would like to inform you that a fine has been imposed on an individual who posted insulting content about our artists on an online community. We will do our utmost to ensure that criminal punishment is imposed on cases still under investigation," they stated. The lawsuit even covered other K-pop bands Another announcement about its group, TXT (Tomorrow X Together), was shared by BigHit Music. The label began by thanking fans for their steadfast support of the boy band and confirming that legal action is still being taken to keep the band safe. The business stated that it is taking strong action against sexual harassment, insults, defamation, false information, invasion of privacy, and the unlawful sharing of personal information, including flight information. Additionally, they cautioned against using TXT-related content without authorisation. In the meantime, BigHit Music announced legal action to shield their newest group, CORTIS, from illegal behaviors such as sexual harassment, slander, and insults. The business disclosed that it has discovered significant instances of deepfake content involving their younger members, improper use of personal information, exaggerated claims of accomplishments, and unapproved sharing of CCTV footage. They declared that they will pursue harsh legal action without compromise or compassion. Pledis Entertainment revealed on Weverse that a U.S. court has authorized legal processes to find persistent harmful social media accounts that target its groups SEVENTEEN and TWS. In addition to taking action against hostile activity, the agency stated that those who violated privacy, leaked personal information, or engaged in stalking had been punished or sued. Their zero-tolerance stance was emphasised.
31 December,2025 03:24 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBTS member V, also known as Kim Taehyung, celebrated his 30th birthday in a moment that perfectly captured his shy and endearing personality. In a video shared by fellow bandmates RM and J Hope, the singer was seen hiding inside a closet as they wished him on his special day, a gesture that quickly melted hearts online. V goes all shy receiving wishes The short clip, shared on social media, showed RM and J Hope playfully calling out to Taehyung, while he remained tucked away inside the closet, visibly bashful. Along with the video, the members simply wrote, “Happy Birthday,” keeping the moment warm, personal and understated. Fans were quick to react, with many saying the video perfectly reflected V’s gentle nature. The clip spread rapidly across platforms, prompting an outpouring of birthday wishes from ARMYs around the world. “He’s still the same shy Taehyung we fell in love with,” wrote one fan, while another commented, “This is why BTS feels like family.” The birthday moment came amid BTS’s ongoing group activities and public appearances. During a recent livestream, the group also acknowledged V’s birthday, extending the celebrations and giving fans more candid interactions to cherish. The consistent display of affection among the members reinforced the close bond they continue to share, even after more than a decade together. Reflecting on the moment, fans noted how naturally V reacted to the attention. “He never knows how to respond to love, and that’s what makes him so real,” read one popular fan message. Another added, “The way RM and J Hope celebrate him so softly shows how deeply they care.” All about V and BTS V, who debuted with BTS in 2013, has carved a unique identity with his deep vocals and artistic versatility. Known for experimenting with jazz, R and B and soulful sounds, he has consistently stood out as both a musician and performer. Alongside his bandmates, he is gearing up for BTS’s highly anticipated comeback album, expected in 2026. The shy closet moment may have lasted only a few seconds, but for fans, it was a reminder of the warmth and authenticity that defines BTS. As one fan summed it up, “It’s not about big celebrations. It’s these small, genuine moments that make BTS special.”
30 December,2025 01:28 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
