“Such a proud moment!”— Fans react as Audemars Piguet headquarters honors BTS’ j-hope visit by hoisting South Korean flag

BTS’ j-hope’s influence was highlighted on January 25, 2025, when fans noticed a South Korean flag hoisted prominently at the headquarters of luxury watchmaker Audemars Piguet in Switzerland. This gesture has garnered attention and speculation, with many attributing it to his recent appearance for the brand a couple of months ago.

The BTS member's association with Audemars Piguet appears to have made a significant impact, with this symbolic recognition of his home country drawing praise. Korean media outlet Esquire Korea also acknowledged the moment, describing it as a national honor and expressing gratitude to the idol.

Fans have responded with excitement to this development, with some interpreting it as a possible hint at an ambassadorial role for j-hope with the brand. Many have taken to social media to praise his status as a globally respected figure. One fan on X wrote:

"Such a proud moment!"

Others emphasized how his influence continues to enhance South Korea’s cultural and artistic presence on the world stage.

"Look at the respect the company has for having Hobi as their brand Ambassador," a fan wrote.

"Don’t you love when Hobi is treated like royalty by people and brands just like he deserves? AP is doing it too," another fan pointed out.

"Now that is impact," an X user said.

Some directly attributed this to the BTS star's influence and ambassadorship qualities.

"When we saw something like this and we say it's HOBIPOWER," a fan coined.

"Hobi is so committed to the brands he works with as an ambassador. He shows incredible respect and genuine interest in these brands. A true ambassador. Congratulations to Audemars Piguet and LouisVuitton, you've made the right choice." another fan commented.

"The not-so-subtle hints of a j-hope x Audemars Piguet partnership have sent my brain into overdrive!" an X user exclaimed.

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Esquire Korea thanks BTS' j-hope for South Korean flag being hoisted at Audemars Piguet headquarters in Switzerland

On November 22, 2024, BTS’ j-hope attended the grand opening of the Audemars Piguet AP House Seoul Flagship in South Korea. Dressed in a black tuxedo, the Grammy-nominated artist captivated fans while showcasing the Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked Watch, a luxury timepiece priced between $121,049 and $735,430.

Audemars Piguet's official X account highlighted the event by sharing details of one of their latest designs exhibited at the opening, the 43 mm limited edition Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon "COMPANION," created in collaboration with New York-based artist KAWS.

For fans, this event was particularly significant as it marked the idol's second public appearance since his military discharge on October 17, 2024, and his first official engagement with the luxury brand.

The excitement around his association with Audemars Piguet grew further after Esquire Korea shared the news of the South Korean flag being hoisted at the brand’s headquarters in Le Brassus, Le Chenit, Switzerland. In an Instagram post, Esquire Korea wrote:

“The Korean flag was raised at the Audemars Piguet headquarters in Switzerland! This was thanks to BTS’ j-hope (@/uarmyhope), who was invited to the Audemars Piguet headquarters. Having joined as an AP Friend last November, he visited the headquarters this year in celebration of Audemars Piguet’s 150th anniversary.”

The post included 10 photos of j-hope touring the headquarters, where he observed the intricate watchmaking process.

Fans are now speculating about a potential ambassadorship, expressing excitement about the prospect of future collaborations between j-hope and Audemars Piguet.