On October 4, 2024, HYBE, the label behind BTS, unveiled a teaser for its upcoming 'BTS X MU:DS Collaboration Merch' on social media. The collection, created in partnership with the National Museum Cultural Foundation, merges traditional Korean culture with the band's global influence.
Fans can look forward to purchasing the exclusive items beginning October 8, 2024, just in time for Hangul Day, a national holiday celebrating the creation of the Korean alphabet.
The merchandise will be available on the Weverse Shop as well as the National Museum of Korea’s Museum Shop in Yongsan-gu, Seoul.
This release marks BTS' third instalment of the 'Dalmajung' series, which began in 2021. The collection is designed to celebrate and highlight Korean heritage by incorporating iconic national treasures.
The highlight of the collections is that each item in the collection will not only feature the group's branding but also integrate lyrics from some of the septet’s most popular songs, such as Yet to Come and Mikrokosmos.
HYBE to launch the third instalment of BTS X MU:DS collaboration merchandise
The K-pop group had previously launched similar collections through the same collaboration in 2021 and 2022. This year's collection will showcase 14 unique product designs inspired by six national treasure-level artefacts from the National Museum of Korea, including -
- Pensive Bodhisattva (Bangasayusang)
- Celadon inlaid chrysanthemum and peony pattern melon-shaped bottle
- Celadon inlaid chrysanthemum and vine pattern bowl
- White porcelain inlaid lotus and vine pattern bowl
- White porcelain inlaid peony and butterfly pattern flask
- White porcelain moon jar
The collaboration aims to showcase the cultural significance of Korea’s artistic heritage through modern design while strengthening BTS’s connection to its homeland.
As reported by Business Post, Jeong Yong-seok, the president of the National Museum of Korea Foundation, emphasized that BTS's deep appreciation for the nation's cultural heritage has played a significant role in promoting it. He expressed hope for the beauty and significance of South Korean cultural treasures. He said,
"BTS's extraordinary affection for our national cultural heritage has contributed greatly to the promotion of our cultural heritage. I hope that the beauty and excellence of our cultural heritage, such as the Bangasayusang, Goryeo celadon, and Joseon white porcelain, will be conveyed to many fans around the world."
Meanwhile, HYBE shared that the 2024 Dalmajung collection is anticipated to resonate with more international fans, as it combines the group's brand value with the significance of the country's treasured relics.
The label noted that this collaboration with the National Museum Cultural Foundation offers a unique opportunity to enhance the appreciation of both artists and South Korean culture in a meaningful and impactful way.
Currently, all seven members of the group are serving in the military, except Jin. They are expected to reunite in June 2025.