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On December 18, 2024, the hashtag "BTS IS SEVEN" gained massive traction on X, amassing over 111,000 posts at the time of writing this article. The trend emerged as BTS fans, known as ARMY, united to counteract hate directed toward members Jungkook and Jimin, as well as to reaffirm their support for the group amid calls for its disbandment.
The controversy began when a segment of fans, often referred to as "solos" (those who prioritize one member over the group), and haters alleged mistreatment of their favorite idols. They initiated a campaign under the hashtag "BTS DISBAND," suggesting the members pursue solo careers instead of remaining in the group.
Most of the negativity targeted Jungkook and Jimin, both of whom are currently fulfilling their mandatory military service, which began in December 2023. Amid the backlash, ARMY quickly turned the narrative around, emphasizing the unity of the group. An X user, @baesggukie, wrote,
Trending
"tannies being eachother’s biggest supporter will always remain priceless and there’s nothing can separate them bcuz BTS IS SEVEN."
The situation escalated further when some netizens extended their attacks to personal aspects of the idols' lives. Jungkook, who is not active on Instagram, became a target through the account he created for his Doberman, Jeon Bam.
The account, originally intended for updates about the dog, recently received an influx of hateful comments, with some even making disturbing comparisons involving BTS member V’s late dog, Yeontan. Many have since taken to the account to leave supportive comments and express concern for both the artist and Bam.
"This is sickening are they even normal? Miserable ppl everywhere I just hope jk doesn’t read those vile comments abt him….please y’all go to bam’s acc and leave a wonderful and loving message guys!" an X user wrote.
"Disgusting. Let's not allow this behavior and turn a blind eye on these vile fans attacking JK and a dog account. Seriously," a fan mentioned.
"what do you expect from those solos. they're disgusting as hell," another person remarked.
"I can’t believe this sh*t is still happening in 2024," a user wrote.
Jimin’s family has also faced malicious attacks. Reports indicate that his father was targeted on social media. This reportedly led him to remove content related to his son from his accounts. Some netizens went as far as leaving threatening messages on the Instagram page of Jimin’s father’s café, prompting him to disable the comments section entirely.
"jimin’s dad had to delete his own son’s pictures and even turn off his comment section. the hate this man receives is outrageous and way too normalized, it’s time to leave him and his family alone," an X user wrote.
"We've noticed targeted harassment towards Jimin and his father in his café page, which has now led to the comments being closed. This behavior is totally unacceptable and goes against BTS' values. Arguing online with the members' family over ships is concerning," a fan mentioned.
"Bringing family into this is outrageous it shouldn't have gone down to this," a user commented.
More about BTS members and their recent activities
As of now, five out of the seven BTS members are fulfilling their mandatory military service in South Korea. Jin and j-hope, the first to enlist, have completed their service, with Jin being discharged in June 2024 and J-hope following in October 2024.
Since his return, Jin has actively reconnected with fans through various projects. He released his solo debut album, Happy, and has appeared on popular variety shows such as RUN JIN and Salon Drip.
After his discharge, j-hope spent time in Los Angeles for what he referred to as a work commitment. Fans speculate that a significant project is on the horizon, fueled by his Instagram bio, which reads "WIP" (Work in Progress), and updates featuring large production sets. While nothing is officially confirmed, rumors of a world tour by the rapper have been circulating.
Jimin and Jungkook, along with RM and V, began their military duties in December 2023, enlisting in pairs just a day apart. All four are expected to be discharged by June 2025.
Meanwhile, Suga, who enlisted later due to a prior shoulder injury, is serving as a social worker in the military. Keeping a low profile, he has refrained from being active online. His discharge is also set for June 2025, shortly after the other members.
With all members scheduled to complete their service by mid-2025, BTS is expected to reunite as a group and resume their activities. Fans around the world are eagerly looking forward to the group’s return to the spotlight.
