During his interview with Weverse Magazine published on December 24, 2024, BTS' j-hope expressed his anticipation for the group's awaited comeback. He discussed the reunion's significant impact on fans and the industry. The rapper also shared his reflections on the group's journey and the transition from individual projects back to collective activities.
j-hope, who completed his mandatory military service in October 2024, spoke about the excitement and sense of responsibility of reuniting as a group. As he reflected on the group's future, he also mentioned the attention the comeback would get while expressing the joy of performing together again.
He stated that there were "certain things" that BTS needed to do together, noting that he was looking forward to coming back "in style" and saying, "This is us. This is BTS."
"There are certainly things we need to do as BTS. When we’re all back together as a group, it’s going to have a huge impact, and everybody’s going to be watching. I’m excited to see what it’ll feel like when we perform together again," j-hope added.
He also expressed a desire to showcase their growth, saying the group's return would exemplify their essence as BTS while celebrating their unique journeys.
More from BTS' j-hope interview with Weverse magazine and the group's military
The group's military service has played an important role in shaping its current trajectory. The septet halted their group activities in December 2022 when the eldest member, Jin, enlisted in the military. By December 2023, all seven members had joined the service, with j-hope enlisting in April 2023.
While both Jin and j-hope were discharged, the remaining members—RM, Suga, Jimin, V, and Jungkook are set to complete their service by June 2025. Speculation about a group album in the latter half of 2025 has fueled anticipation. Fans were especially excited after HYBE announced their plans to mark the 10th anniversary of BTS's HYYH: The Most Beautiful Moment in Life series.
In the interview, j-hope also reflected on BTS's evolution from their hip-hop roots to exploring diverse genres. He acknowledged that while some styles felt more natural than others, the members always found ways to adapt, motivated by their strong camaraderie.
He attributed their continued success to their genuine appreciation for one another, which, he noted, makes working as a team effortless and fulfilling.
"The thing is, BTS started with hip hop at its foundation and progressively became more pop-oriented. Throughout that process, we tried so many different songs—some fit me like a glove, while others felt a little off but I could still suck in my stomach to make them work," he said.
The rapper-dancer also shared his perspective on maintaining individuality within the group dynamic. He told Weverse that the next step for the group was to consider how they all shone as a team without "diminishing [our] individual colors and identities."
"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 said.
For the singer, the ARMYs remain central to his and the band's journey, providing the motivation and support that fuels his passion and determination.
As fans eagerly await BTS’s reunion, j-hope’s reflections provide a glimpse into the group’s shared vision for the future, a return that promises to honor their legacy while embarking on a new chapter.