BTS, the South Korean boy band formed by Big Hit Entertainment (now HYBE) in 2013, has undergone a remarkable journey over the past decade, evolving from a small hip-hop group into a global phenomenon. Their debut came on June 13, 2013, with the single album 2 Cool 4 Skool, which laid the groundwork for their future success.
Key Milestones (2018-2024)
2018: Global Recognition
BTS achieved significant milestones in 2018, including their third studio album, Love Yourself: Tear, which became the first Korean album to debut at number one on the Billboard 200 chart. They also made headlines by addressing the United Nations General Assembly, promoting self-love and anti-violence campaigns in partnership with UNICEF.
2019: Continued Success
The group released Map of the Soul: Persona, which topped charts worldwide and solidified their status as a leading act in the music industry. They performed at major venues like Wembley Stadium and were recognized for their record-breaking sales in South Korea.
2020: Historic Achievements Amidst a Pandemic
In 2020, BTS released Map of the Soul: 7, which became the best-selling album in South Korean history. Their English-language single “Dynamite” marked their first number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100, making them the first K-pop act to achieve this feat. The album Be and its lead single “Life Goes On” further showcased their ability to resonate with global audiences during challenging times.
2021: Awards and Recognition
BTS garnered their first Grammy nomination and won Artist of the Year at the American Music Awards. Their singles “Butter” and “Permission to Dance” dominated charts, with “Butter” setting records for weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100.
2022: A Shift to Solo Projects
After releasing the anthology album Proof, BTS announced a hiatus from group activities to focus on individual projects. Members began releasing solo music, with Jin’s “The Astronaut,” RM’s Indigo, and J-Hope’s Jack in the Box marking this new chapter.
2023-2024: Celebrating Milestones
In June 2024, BTS celebrated their 11th anniversary with a special event during their annual Festa. Jin made his highly anticipated return after military service, engaging directly with fans. The group’s ongoing popularity is reflected in their continued record sales and global fan engagement.
BTS consists of 7 members: RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook.
Throughout these years, BTS has not only broken numerous records but has also made significant cultural impacts, addressing social issues and promoting messages of positivity and self-acceptance. Their journey exemplifies how music can transcend borders and connect people worldwide.
