After their global popularity led BTS to becoming the first ever K-pop group to win a BBMA at the 2017 awards, a feat that no other Korean aside from Psy has achieved, all eyes are on the septet. With their trend-setting approach to K-pop and their charismatic, but relatable, personalities, the boy band is the most visible Asian act in the US right now.
While their ever loyal ARMY knows everything that there is to learn about BTS', there's a lot to this South Korean act with which newcomers may not be familiar. But Billboard's basic guide to the BTS members is here to help.
Since Dec. 30, 1995, Kim Taehyung has graced the world with his striking gaze. Using the stage name "V," he debuted with BTS in 2013 to show off his mellow voice.
1. His Vocals Evoke Envy
With a wide range and a deep tone, V’s expressive vocals are a mainstay to BTS’ sound. He recently’s showcased this through “Stigma” on Wings and again during BTS’ fourth anniversary celebration with the release of “4 O’Clock,” V’s collaborative track with Rap Monster.
2. Enjoys Art
V has made it known that he enjoys art and also is interested in creating art himself. According to BTS’ reps, when BTS was in Chicago for their Wings tour, they visited the Art Institute of Chicago and V was a big fan of the Van Gogh exhibit. He also is a fan of the photographer Ante on Instagram, who returned V's love with a photo dedicated to the K-pop star.
3. Recently Began Acting
V appeared in the Korean television drama Hwarang, a period series that began last December and finished airing in February. He's the only BTS member to currently be pursuing a career as an actor. He and fellow BTS member Jin sung “Even If I Die, It’s You” for the show’s soundtrack.
4. Was Nearly a Farmer
If he hadn’t made it as a singer, V would have gone into the family business and become a farmer. But fate offered a different path for V and the only sort of growing he’s been doing for the past few year has been as a performer.
5. Surprise Member of BTS
Way back before BTS debuted, the rest of the members had been known to the public, but only V was kept a secret. V became less of a mystery only when the first official teaser photos of BTS were released, unveiling the artist for K-pop fans to discover.