BTS' j-hope reflected on the group's journey, evolution, and enduring bond in an interview with Weverse magazine published on December 24, 2024. This sparked widespread reactions from fans. Despite their individual ventures, BTS remains a global phenomenon known for their strong camaraderie and diverse artistry.
j-hope discussed how BTS started with a hip-hop foundation before transitioning to more pop-oriented music. He candidly acknowledged that while some songs felt like a perfect fit, others required effort to adapt to. Despite these challenges, the group’s collective spirit kept them united.
"Then we all went off doing our own thing, each with our own style. After pursuing our own little ventures, we are now coming back together, and I love that for us." j-hope said.
He highlighted how their mutual appreciation and genuine enjoyment of each other's company make their teamwork effortless and natural.
"And if you enjoy and appreciate each other’s company, it doesn’t matter if the clothes are a little tight at times because your hearts would still be in the right place," he added.
His comments resonated with BTS fans, ARMYs, who praised them as a powerful affirmation of BTS' bond. One ARMY noted:
"a major slap for antis and solos 🫢"
Fans reacted to the idol's remarks on the group's togetherness.
"solos, antis cry in the corner right now 😭😭" commented one X user.
"Havent read the full interview yet but this already made me sobbing profoundly 😭😭" mentioned a netizen.
"i love it when they all reiterate they’re in dis bangtan shit forever😁 stank a** solo freaks will neva win amen!" noted an individual on X.
Fans took to social media, celebrating j-hope's heartfelt words and the group's enduring connection.
"This is what we’ve been saying as ARMYs all along because it’s what BTS has been constantly reiterating throughout Chapter 2. Here you can see the words clearly on the page!! They’re a team first because THEY WANT to be, but they also have their own individual colours! 🥹💜🥰" wrote one more ARMY.
"It is literally their greatest strength, that's why the group works, but the rest don't seem to understand it and always try to push a negative narrative on them. they project 🧍🏻♀️" read a comment from another ARMY.
"the bond between bts is something else they went through so much and still are like family no matter what 🥹 what a relief that they exist and that we are part of all of this" posted this netizen.
"It's just that now they are no longer together due to forced work because they can live alone and want to continue being a group because they love doing their thing together😭😭😭" added this ARMY.
j-hope reflects on life, art, and BTS in Weverse interview
In the interview, j-hope appreciated the members’ solo ventures. He admired Jin’s recent projects, noting how their solo work inspired him to push his boundaries. The idol expressed his excitement about BTS reuniting after their activities, anticipating a powerful return to the stage. He added:
"I can tell you the other members feel the same way. What hasn’t changed is that I really, really love to do it. Even now. I’m here because of the group. And working with the others is still so fun and fulfilling and makes me so, so happy."
For j-hope, BTS’ legacy is deeply intertwined with ARMY. He credited their unwavering support as his driving force, comparing them to fuel that keeps him moving forward. He emphasized that their presence is the foundation of his and BTS’ journey.
Further, in the interview, j-hope shared a deep and personal look into his life as a BTS member, solo artist, and individual. Conducted on December 7, 2024, shortly after his military discharge, he reflected on his growth, creativity, and the journey ahead.
j-hope described his military service as challenging but meaningful. He valued creating a positive atmosphere for his fellow soldiers and found personal growth during the 18 months. The artist continued:
"I tried my best to fulfill the role assigned to me and give it my all. It’s like how in BTS we actually show each other more respect because we’re a group. I tried to do the same in the army."
After his discharge, he visited Los Angeles to reconnect with his artistic flow. The trip was creatively inspiring, despite initial cultural challenges. He expressed clarity about his current artistic direction, emphasizing the importance of past efforts in shaping his present.
Moreover, j-hope spoke about incorporating feedback from fans, particularly the letters they sent during his military service.
"ARMY really poured their hearts into those letters (laughs) saying, I hope you’ll try this or that. They really, really inspired me. [...] If there’s some (idea) overlap with my own ideas, I take it into consideration and get some feedback on it." the artist stated.
Elsewhere in the interview, j-hope shared his future plans, which focused on following his instincts and continuing to express himself through his art. The idol continued:
"I’m thinking I’ll have to give them more now that I’m out of the military. Right now I’m working out the details and coming up with a more concrete picture. (laughs) It feels like there’s certain things I’m destined to do. It’s clear how I’m able to bring joy to people, and that’s through performing. I want to show what I can do. I want to keep performing and bring people happiness."
j-hope concluded the interview by reiterating his love for music and performing. He views creativity as his calling and aims to continuously evolve. His focus is on making music that reflects his identity while bringing joy to others.