the BTS rabbit hole: mastering fandom cultivation 

i’ve been letting this channel rot away, so i’m not actually sure how many people youtube is going to show this to. to everyone who somehow found their way here: thank you! to everyone who isn’t into bts but still decided to click because they were happy to see that i’m still alive: thank you! more videos are on their way, i’ll make a poll with topics very soon

the way you explained how the west treats foreign artists, that they welcome them as long as it's temporary, was really amazing. i had never heard anyone explain it like that and it made perfect sense! there are lots of examples that came to mind right away!

the reason why I strongly admire bts is their passion and hard work on their songs, as you said on the first topic, even Paul McCartney said that bts is that one kind of artist that is deeply connected to their songs. they all have this conscience that their music is their art and they work hard to put themselves in it.

BTS's sincerity was definitely something that grabbed me from the very beginning. My cynical brain saw it as an act initially... but honestly, if they're "acting" it's Oscar-worthy lifetime performance art. When I started watching their early vlogs (which were initially their only real avenue of promotion and contact with fans), I saw how frequently the boys would turn on the camera of their own volition just because ARMY was a comforting presence to talk to. There was no one telling them they had to vlog in the middle of the night, that was all them. I think the synergistic nature of BTS and ARMY's relationship is a major factor in our loyalty. With most artists, while they appreciate their fans and may do special promotions like backstage invites or fan clubs, it's still a very much, "I'm an artist, you are the people who give me money to do what I do." That is NOT BTS. As much as we love them, they love us (collectively) too. We're the first ones they acknowledge with every single award or success, because they see it as our success, too. They think about us and how we're doing (nearly) as often as we think about them. And their social message and concern for mental health is likewise genuine, because it's something they've faced personally. Yoongi and Namjun have been very open about their struggles with mental health and depression. Heck, half of them are introverts-- they know exactly what it is to feel socially awkward and unsure of how to be in public. When Jin went to that movie premiere, he invited ARMY not to boost his own consequence, but so that he'd have people he knew there, and wouldn't feel so out of place. Several of the members-- Namjun and Jin especially-- mention frequently how uncomfortable they feel with all the adoration they receive, and question whether they're really deserving of it. Personally, I think it's because what they're receiving from ARMY is actually a double-helping: yes, we love the group for themselves, but they're also receiving our gratitude for how they've helped us feel about *ourselves.* Though they're never likely to know us all as individuals, they still *recognize* that ARMY are individuals, each with our own stories, each deserving of respect and love. They want to know our stories, too. In celebrating BTS, we're also celebrating *ourselves,* and all of the successes of the individuals who make up ARMY. (Which is... a LOT of success. :D )

I’m a very fickle minded person. I cannot/do not enjoy obsessing over just one thing. But BTS drew me in like nothing had before and I’ve always wondered why. I’ve never been a fandom type of person, I find them exhausting but this is the first time I found myself actively trying to stay away. This is the best video I’ve seen so far explaining this phenomenon. I always enjoy listening to your perspective on topics and your opinions are always very well presented. Looking forward to future videos!!!

All I'm saying is that now I understand why BTS's music is not considered Kpop. I know there's a lot of discourse about this, but I mean c'mon. They are not welcomed wholeheartedly anywhere they go. Ofc they became their own genre. I understand the frustration behind this and I respect it.

Can't believe this video doesn't have more views. It's one of the most fascinating takes on BTS, and what makes them so great and stand out above the rest of the industry I've ever seen. I clicked on the video expecting the regular stuff: "Their MV's have meaning, they're all talented, they love their fans yadayadayada" but you gave a much deeper and sincere analysis. Really great stuff. Even as a long time BTS fan (2016-), I feel like you pointed out things I'd never consciously thought about before, like the romanticising friendship, how they implement stories known by their fans into their songs etc. I'm so happy i found this video.

"....its more so that they are able to represent so many things at once, and make you as a fan feel like part of a bigger picture" this is such a good way to mention one of the reasons on why they are so successful and loved. Very well done on thie video!!!!

Something you discussed that I never rlly considered was how western media will welcome an “exotic” act for a while and then they want it gone. It reminded me of something similar that happened in the kpop industry in regards to BTS: Back around 2018/2019, just when BTS was begging to enjoy substantial success in the west, kpop fans and the Korean media started saying things like “who’s the next BTS,” “give someone else a chance,” etc. I’ve been heavily entrenched in kpop and it’s fandom for YEARS up until that point, was fans of many groups spanning all 3 generations, and had never experienced the entire industry and fan community trying to push a group out of the spotlight. It was jarring at the time, and now that you point out that the west does this regularly, it’s even more confusing why it happened in the Korean industry. All a sudden positive fan reactions and news articles turned into cries for new artists to become popular (and for BTS to return to the station I assume their industry viewed of them). Why? idk. My guess is, just like today and just like back when they debuted, BTS were still technically industry “outsiders” and will l probably never get the acknowledgment from their industry that they deserve. And as outsiders, all their success did was signal that it was now possible for Korean acts to top American charts. Atp, I don’t think they have much interest in assimilating and re-integrating themselves into the industry but back then it was ridiculous (as a fan) to hear all the cheers turn to “okay, let’s wrap it up and move on” in under a year.

I remember in 2017 as our fandom had many adult army there was this mindset of "ok, let's make our boys known globally, army. So, I work in marketing/music industry/radio/events etc and we have to do this and that. Let's do it!" It was amazing! ❤

THIS is exactly what makes BTS so attractive to so many people, thanks for explaining it and taking your time to do this amazing video ❤️

I'm only 20 minutes into this but man the way both bts and armys are treated by,,, literally everyone else makes me so mad like that recent billboard article feels like a continuation of the grammy night and the racist jokes made by both locals and professionals and that god awful violent caricature and i simply need to know if any other fandoms are stalked by journalists and crypto scammers on twitter the way we are because i refuse to believe this is normal i feel like im going insane 💀

I really don't understand why people don't recommend this video to reactors who start their BTS journey... :/

And taehyung finally did what he wants to do in his album..... Taehyung's album have my whole heart it's all songs are great

I always tend to get really into something (an artist, a book, a movie, whatever) but after 1 or 2 months I move on and find something new, when I got into bts back in early 2019 I thought it would be the same thing and here I am almost in 2022 with a whole twitter account that I use just to vote for them for awards lol I don't think I'm ever moving on from them

Great video. As a somewhat recent ARMY (just before panini hit), but older in age, you made excellent points. But to your conclusion: why I love BTS and feel connected? It is indeed the music. I don't really care for the BU, though I find it interesting. It's the music. Love watching Run BTS. But it's the music. In the Soop is complete therapy. But it's the music. The concepts, visuals are amazing. But it's the music. Love all the guys and deeply admire them. But it's the music. :)

I must say that i havent kept up with BTS news etc for a while now, but this vid makes me somewhat nostalgic and just extremly happy to see such a detailed deep dive into BTS and Armys. I just thoroughly enjoyed watching this, thank you.

timestamps 00:00 intro 02:40 attack on bangtan: the underdog narrative 15:25 "music transcends": bts in the west 25:08 pied piper: bts fomo 35:47 "it‘s worth envying": public personas and parasocial relationships 43:39 the dumpling incident: storytelling across mediums 50:28 "bts don‘t have bad songs": musical vulnerability 01:00:01 "teamwork makes the dream work": the ot7 agenda 01:06:47 hwa yang yeon hwa: the eras 01:09:28 the bts model: pretentiousness and performative advocacy 01:17:04 conclusion

This is an excellent video through and through, and I’m happy you didn’t talk much about the BTS Universe. In my opinion, that topic belongs way more in a conversation not about the reasons for BTS’s popularity but about their influence on the industry. I sincerely hope one day someone will make an equally thorough and informative video on that, because too many people are purposefully blind to how much the BTS model has influenced how their favorite groups (particularly from JYP and smaller labels) are presented and promoted. At this point in time the “don’t compare” and “stop bringing up BTS everywhere” seem to be the default reaction. Truly, people aren’t ready for that conversation but it needs to be had.

wow this was an amazing analysis of how the relationship between bts and armys was forged, i really wish major music publications would take this approach to bts and their music

i no joke, have a word document outlining the bare bones idea that is beautifully presented in this very video. i have literally just discovered this channel mere hours ago but i can say with certainty you have a spectacular thing going on here. it was really nice seeing the entirety of bts and "the army experience" being laid out like this. honestly there wasn't a single piece of information in here that was *new* to me but it was cathartic all the same to see the last couple years of my army life being presented in clarity.... like reaching a checkpoint in a videogame and taking stock of all the progress thats happened so far... or sorting and folding through my laundry until all the many clothes in my brain are neatly compartmentalized to take stock of my wardrobe. i love this video a lot! its obvious so much thought and effort went into it and i truly applaud you for finishing and putting it out!! ill be recommending it to many ppl for sure

I told myself I would watch a bit, go to sleep, and continue tomorrow. It is now after 6am because I watching this all in one sitting because I could not stop. This is so thorough yet engaging and I love how you structured it. I enjoyed it very much and agree with a lot of what you say! Thank you for this video!

I think it's important to remember how kpop in general frames things -- and that ppl like Bang and BTS came up in that industry, so they will see things through a certain lens -- in terms of Bang saying he wanted to create a model and that there should be more "BTS's" I don't think he meant a business model. I don't think he meant necessarily that it was a "formula for success." I genuinely believe he and in turn, BTS, saw a potential in the Idol phenomenon to be a real force for social good, a real source of strength and acceptance for fans. The parasocial relationship they've cultivated w ARMY is a two-way street, which is unusual and novel. And it appears to be a powerful force for good. Ppl look up to idols, they want to emulate them -- so why NOT have idols w a REAL message for positive change? They become more than idols, they become mentors, big brothers/sisters, people that model positive ways of being for their fans. I don't believe BTS can be replicated, but part of their "formula" is that there was no real "formula." They are each very unique and talented people, and their synergy isn't going to be replicated -- but no one should try to copy them. The "next BTS" will be something different from BTS. It will be something unique, just like BTS is unique. The only similarities it might have will be in the fostering of a real social connection between artists and their fandom, and the acknowledgment of that exchange of energy and support. Before BTS, idols were shiny objects to entice, excite, even titillate fans, and fans might copy their fashion and dance moves, but that was it. I think the key wd be in finding artists who want more than the typical flash in the pan of the idol "cycle." They will be ppl who want to be artists for a long time, who have something they need or want to say to the world, and who won't be cookie-cutter ppl looking for fast fame. My opinion. I think that's what Bang started, and he's nurtured some very unique artists -- Jo Kwon was supported by Bang in his exploration of drag. It's clear he has a sense for nurturing what makes artists unique, rather than trying to simply produce a widely-palatable product draped in novel "concepts" and fashion. The potential for the "idol industry" to be something MORE, I think is what he and BTS themselves all are trying to show people. That's why BTS doesn't fit the typical kpop model, why they aren't retiring in their 20s, or splitting up for good to move on to their solo careers. They still have more to say together, and separately. They're doing something new. And I think the "next BTS" will be doing some new as well, something BTS themselves hasn't done -- some new way of expressing themselves, some new message for the world. But I'm here to see where BTS goes and what more they have to share with us, just like other ARMY -- we're in this alongside BTS. We're not mere observers. We're part of it. We're family.

I've been feeling kinda distant from BTS for a while now, thank you for reminding me why I adore them so much. This video was a really interesting watch.

1:11:40 - It's also because most of them are weirded out by the fact that armies would constantly praise their actions & would match their donations. I saw non-fans & kpoppies tell us that we are delusional & that we should get a grip on reality because 1). We shouldn't praise their actions because that's what a "basic human being" should do & 2). "Their company is forcing them to say that. So of course, they going to tell you no because it's going to make them look bad as a team." BTS has always been so straightforward about its message, so why are you shocked by this? Like no joke, I lost count of how many times, I saw this on non-related/BTS-related content. While I do somewhat agree with the first comment, the sad reality is that nowadays you can't find a group of young individuals, who are genuine & passionate about their work & the message they want to spread to the world, especially in the west. Note: I'm not saying that there aren't artists who care about their craft or their platform. I'm specifically talking about the ones who are driven by greed & only care about money, likes, & having a huge following. There's also nothing wrong with wanting to show how proud you are of someone. Like it's not hurting you in any way, so why are you upset at armies for showing their appreciation toward BTS? If It's bothering you so much just ignore them. Simple as that. Idk... I just find it so mind-boggling that people would be upset over something like that. Am I weird for feeling like that? Anyway, thank you for this wonderful video. It was well-presented, informative, & fun. ☺️💜

I finished the whole well researched video, great analysis! I became an ARMY because BTS has consistently been sending the same message throughout all these years. Their personalities, selfless behaviour and care towards each other with being true to oneself, sincerity and kindness is what I think the key to BTS's strong bond with ARMYs.

It's not a pyramid scheme. You can totally not be a fan. The issue is that some nonfans don't know how to dislike something without disrespecting it. That's when the trouble starts.

BTS has so many “entry points” to the rabbit hole these days. For some it is through their rappers. For others it may be an admiration of the clear and unique voices of the vocal line, while others like myself it was their dance. When you combine all these talents with their charm, humility, and group dynamic-it literally sucks you down the rabbit hole. But I would say that their song lyrics keep me in the rabbit hole. I wanted to mention that your video is so well done! I do like Make it Right, but my BTS skip song would be Go Go. Haha. I subscribed in case you have time for more videos.

Very well done! Reflections are on point! I especially connected with your "romanticizing friendship" comment. To me, BTS (and ARMY) also romanticized family (and people for that matter). They were just what I needed after a life-long suffering of bad family members. I was starting to feel that there were very little people out there who truly cared for other people until BTS and the ARMY showed up and freaking changed me!

I think what’s important to keep in mind about bts music is that not everyone will like every song but just cuz someone doesn’t like it doesn’t mean it’s a bad song inherently or that they can disrespect bts when criticizing it. Like when what’s his name was hating on permission to dance. I don’t like your eyes tell but they still sang really well in it and I can see why other ppl do. It just doesn’t hit for me. Really great video you did a very throughout job!

This is probably the best video essay about them that I've seen in a while; not only does it explain perfectly my own connection with the group(and probably most of other's too) that I'm still yet to put into words myself, but it made me reflect yet again in a lot of things regarding how they changed my perspective in music and stan culture... This is a great video, thank you very much for it.

ah im an old time army and this brought up so many memories. i've been around since 2014 when dark and wild was released. there really was so much hate at the time, which i genuinely think is why Army is so organised today we had to be strong and communicate well or we would have been crushed by the hate thrown at us (it's also why a key army trait is being so over protective of bts were so used to being the only ones who could help them.) bts has always had so many threats and haters but they never played by the big company or media rules and now their too big to ignore, revenge is sweet. about RU-vid: i remember the youtube thing and i would like to add it wasn't just about measuring growth but giving the boys an "award' such as most views in 24hrs since we couldn't trust korean music shows to give bts proper awards I-army especially started looking elsewhere, K-army keep fighting for proper recognision in South Korea. having the record of most views in 24hrs used to be quite an imortant youtube thing more in the west but other western fandoms like swifties also sought it, we wanted to show Bts that we were here and they deserved the world we were fighting so hard back then to give them any scrap of achievement or recognision) also the treating young teen fans badly has always been so funny, because yes when i started likeing bts i was a teen but im a full on legal adult now and have been for 7 years, so many army have s similar story or even joined as army much older. so when media goes "all bts fans are teens!" like no you're just so wrong it's funny. also yeah Bts works to hard they even think about army even when they should be resting. they always always put army as a uber high priority but it's their own choice, so army should respect it (even if we still worry) i just one to say as an army one of the reasons i brought in the Soup was because i just wanted to see bts eating and resting well, nothing has made me happier than to see the group i've grown up with and whos music has helped to so much in tough times resting and being happy. also i remember yoongi's first mixtape it resonated wayyyy to strongly with everyone lol so many army tweeting about being broke and being anti-social, jhopes was a bop you could forget all your problems and just dance, and namjoons brought out every analysist in army, there were heaps of army making sure the translations in every language had the proper meaning. im looking forward to everyones solo albums in the next 2 years. also i won't bite over not enjoying all of their songs, everyone has different tastes (I enjoy everything bts makes but i absolutly have favourites like "not today".) (also yes solo stans are not welcome, because they are quite litteraly never peaceful. every single solo stan i've run into hates or spouts hate for other members despite their own member they stan telling them not too, every single solo stan in 7 years of being an army has acted badly most of em end up tageting the member who need the most protectionas well like j-hope, v, and rm they always attack the appearance + behaviour i got in so many fights over the name calling T_T. you can have a bias, but bts is one group you gotta respect them all. i will fight anyone on that.) also given that bts now owns shares of big hit/hybe the puperteer company conspiracy theory is always so funny as usual. (also the creating music issue on social issues you don't mean was beautifuly showed by the love yourselfs copycats that poped up in kpop and how bad it was, they couldn't even copy the bts homework properly.) thanks for you're hard work on this video it was such a track down memory lane.

THank you for the thoughtful, insightful analysis of the popularity and phenomena of both BTS and its fandom. As a 'new' 74 year old fan, I am myself amazed at how enthusiastic I have become of this group of talented, hard working young men. My admiration of them grows with each new disclosure of how they have and continue to handle the hardships as well as the responsibilities and rewards of success. Part of my admiration for BTS is that these 7 very different personalities respect and support each other's individuality as well as their respective talents without envy. That the boys interact with each other to the advantage of the group is not unique given the Korean (Asian) culture, but that they accomplished that unity without sacrificing their individuality or bridling their spirit is what created the BTS the world has come to joyfully embrace. Their chemistry is so rare - talents combined with individual generosity of spirit is what creates the unique entity of BTS.

This REALLY should be reccomended to everyone who is getting to know bts; reactors or not! AMAZING

Holy shit. This is amazingly well researched and delivered. Story time: Since becoming ARMY almost a year ago I’ve been passionate in online spaces like Twitter but very quiet in my personal life. I don’t have any ARMY friends and more importantly, like myself before I discovered BTS, I’m quite confident most of my friends would look at being a fan of a boy group with derision. I was that person. To the point where I had heard of BTS 3 years prior but knew nothing about them and still I made fun of them just bc they were a “boy band” discovering them really shook me and obvs I’m a massive fan now, thanks to going down the rabbit hole like this vid. So not long ago, I was seeing a friend I hadn’t seen in a long time and knowing he is a fan of pop music and boy groups in general, I thought I could go outside of my comfort and admit being a BTS fan in hopes perhaps he was too or could become one. Well the first thing he said is “I hate them their fans are so toxic” then said he liked blackpink. Other than being a bit rich to call us toxic when some of bp’s fans are that way as well… I was really hurt by the rejection. And I tried to explain what I liked about them and how not all army are like that but I don’t think I got it across well. This vid does it perfect and I thought about sharing it with him but I already feel so vulnerable from his initial rejection that I’ve really shut down even more and never tell my irl’s about BTS. What do you think? Does anyone else have a story like this? What did you do? Thanks for coming to my TED talk.

I can never forget the year 2016 that year as an Army is the most painful for me, it was really tough to the point that I have to uninstall my twitter for at least a month, looking back at it now, we do sure have been through a lot.

I enjoyed watching this so much. I found myself nodding and agreeing with you throughout the video. It's near impossible to describe what makes BTS click because there are so many factors. But the fact that a group of 7 guys who speak a foreign language managed to form a strong emotional connection with so many people across the world is no small feat and should be appreciated. Although I'm not an ideal BTS fan (I don't do typical kpop fan things like mass streaming, mass buying etc.), I enjoy listening to their music and watching their content a lot. I have never been the type of fan who is super invested in an artist's music, but I genuinely believe in and care about BTS's music.

Kpoppies aren’t too bright. The world loves BTS. The world knows how k media and K-pop treated BTS. And to hear K-pop say “we are finding the next BTS” when BTS still lives, shows the world just how South Korea treats them. Does anyone seriously believe the world is looking favorably on K-pop? The freak out The Korean music industry had when they thought they were disbanding and begged them to stay? K-pop jumped on BTS faster than a cowboy mounts his horse. THE WORLD SEES THIS, K-POP. And it’s not going to go well for you.

Watching the first part of this video brings back all the memories of when I was learning everything that happened to them, their history, music and purpose. The connection the boys and I have is unexplainable, but what can I say is there's a moment when I was thinking of giving up and that's also the time I met them. It was the toughest point of my life. I literally had no one until BTS came. I wouldn't say I'm living for them, but I can say they lead me to the reasons why I chose to continue and why I'm still here today. I owe it to them, and I will always remember that. That's one of the unexplainable reasons why the relationship of BTS and ARMY is like the way it is.

I found BTS at 68 yrs of age so BTS has given me so much to do. Also, I'm pretty much of a music snob. They are really the most pop music I listen to. My god, they are so good! Best in my lifetime. I wonder why I'm just seeing this now? This is very well done, and gives much food for thought. Thank you. well done you.

I can’t believe I’m getting such good content for free this is gold

Learning about their past you really see how important and fundamental Kim Namjoon was for the band. It hurts me that there are little spoiled people who disrespect him today. Or wonder why he's in the band.😔 Hostage pyramid scheme is an accurate description of BTS fandom. 😭

even though i already knew about a lot of this stuff it's honestly insane how to see much there is still to learn about bts as a new fan. i became a fan from dynamite and in the last two years i'm still not completely caught up and i think it's impossible to be but i'm just glad i'm here for what's to come

Thank you for putting it out there that they were cut from music shows and some times just have their songs shortened. I actually got into trouble one time when I put it on a comment. Someone got mad at me and said I don't know what I was talking about. There are so many new fans that only see BTS as the stars they are today. They do not understand the struggles they faced when they first started when they had their names on signs made so that the cameraman would know who they were. Or even the time that they got angry when the cameraman didn't pay attention and ruined their intro to no with their navy outfits.

What an incredible video! I'm watching it a year after and wanted to add a note about your section "Ot7 agenda", I think that now that things have changed and they are pursuing solo projects, I feel like it would be interesting to explore how even in pursuing individual activities they made (and are making) a concerted effort to market themselves as still being part of a unit and still being part a group - something that was difficult for western media to understand, to the point that they interpreted their change of activities message as a hiatus much like you see happen with a lot of western boy/girl groups. Their OT7 persona in the midst of this individual activities era presents itself in various ways, most notably how they always introduce themselves as "I am X from BTS", J-Hope did this at Lollapalooza, Jin has been doing so during his solo appearances, and much like they've done in the past when they've done solo features on other artists songs if there is more than one member they are credited as BTS and if it's a solo member they tag themselves as X of BTS. When RM and J-hope went to the W magazine breast cancer awareness event, the two of them did the "Hello we are BTS" introduction even though they were just the two of them. Not to mention all the times they mention each other as they are releasing albums and singles. They continue to do commercial deals together with Huyndai x FIFA collab, but now with Jin being the spokesperson for the ramen brand I think that they have broken the streak of exclusively only doing ot7 commercial deals. But even so it doesn't take away from their commitment as a group. They made a very distinct and clear promise to comeback AS A UNIT in 2025, perhaps not doing group activities at the same pace as they did the first 10 years (releasing one to two albums a year) and maybe just releasing an album once every two years like most established artists do, but their commitment to one another as a unit still stands. And of course, they still very much talk about themselves and RM said recently that their relationship is as strong as ever and they are united in what their future is supposed to look like and they still very much make decisions together (even when discussing when Jin should go to the military, that was a discussion they had together). They've also continued their Run BTS series which they will continue to do occasionally. Regarding whether the solos input may contribute or take away from the impact of their releases, I think that will be hard to measure but also not so hard. I think it's hard to measure because each member will have very distinct musical sounds that may appeal to some aspects of the fanbase and may not appeal to others. Basically, what I've noticed, is that BTS as a group obviously brings in more numbers than any one individual activity by a member but that also depends on the type of music that member puts out. The rule of course is that ARMYs should support all members regardless and there is a large group of ARMYs that continue to apply the same amount of effort they'd put into group projects into a solo project. But of course, inevitably, a solo project that is more pop or r&B based for example might attract more enthusiasm from a larger group of people than a more niche/experimental project, this is sad to me but it's a reality. And back to the solo thing is that the bigger solo fanbases will have a bigger impact when their member releases a record and you'll be able to see that in the numbers for each member, there's no denying it. Having said all of that, what I'm most grateful for is BTS' posture throughout this whole era of individual activities (because of the military as well). They are focused on making music they love and expressing themselves, rather than getting high up the charts (even though that's always something they consider). RM even said in his birthday live that his album (called Indigo which will be out December 2nd haha) is less about making music that will appease a large number of people and more about making music he loves with friends he loves. BTS knows how to make a hit, they've done it time and time again. That's why to me it's very poignant that they've simply chosen to give that less weight at this point and just focus on their artistic expression. Anyways, great video, it was an enjoyable and interesting watch!

BTS and people in ARMY fandom helped me found my identity, who I am as a person, whats important to me. At this point, I love the boys, but all of you too. ARMY feels like my absolute safe place. I feel, like I always have someone behind me.

Had to pause the video multiple times because I kept tearing up. You did such an excellent job with this. I'm amazed you were able to illustrate every point so clearly without digressing and rambling like I would. It also made me realize how re-examining BTS's music and work almost always provides a new perspective. The more I grow and change, the more I learn about BTS, and the more I understand Koearn culture and history.... the more my perspecive expands. So when I revist a particular song or even just one lyric, it takes on a whole new meaning and enriches my experience of it. Thanks so much for your hard work!!

My only question is, "Why am I seeing this just now?" 🥲 I recently got under "attack" by some friends because of my love for BTS, (which is not the first time because I've been an ARMY since 2017, I literally watched the fandom grow in my country it was unheard of) the excitement I have over them and their music and how I share all over my statuses and how ARMYs in my country (Uganda) are extravagantly celebrating their birthdays by putting their pictures up on billboards... and I just didn't know how to explain in enough to be understood. This video is it. It lays down the facts well and digs deep enough to the core and the basis and the genesis and the blooming of everything. Thank you for making such a comprehensive video. Your efforts are not in vain. Thank you! 🙏🏽

this video is AMAZING ! thank you for creating this video and releasing this analysis . i hope those who don’t know about bts well and want to really look into them watch this video because i honestly think you summed up the whole story and experience of bts and why their fans support them so well . it’s really unfortunate that publications and journalists are so lazy and misinforming when it comes to researching and releasing articles on bts , and even with the recent billboard magazine where they tore them to shreds , brought in pointless sources and made bullshit claims for literally no reason . i hope you’re doing well and i look forward to new videos and ideas from you :)

One thing that I think you missed was the fact that BTS' authenticity would not be there if they had not started off as a hip hop group (which is a genre in which authenticity pays an integral part). The group was formed with the goal of being self-producing hip hop group, which is why they had such a strong focus on their message and ideology right from debut. I think that they managed to merge the authentic and down to earth nature of hip hop with the polished and grandiose style of idol music to create a massively appealing image. EDIT: I looked back at this comment and realised it was rather rude of me to just say this, I'm sorry, this video is really really well-done and great.

i hope this video gains more attention and views in the future! it's very well thought-out and organized. as someone who's been in the fandom for over 7 years now, there are parts within this analysis that made me internally reflect my mindset and attitude towards supporting BTS and question what has changed and what has stayed with me since the beginning. i think the explanation for our (ARMY) mindset as a fandom is intricately detailed and worded very nicely, because if i were to explain why i think and act and do things that can be seen as "exclusive" to being an ARMY, i would have written a whole poorly written book on the history and the timeline of "turning point events" that made us the way we are. to be able to effectively explain something like this without mentioning certain things but are able to get the message and intentions across is very comendable. if you're someone like me and have personally experienced the absolute hell and suffering that was 2016-2018 (especially if you were on twitter that time), i would like to offer a long, tight comforting hug and a warm cup of drink of your choice. i hope the journey of supporting our seven men continues to be filled with happiness and growth. have a nice day!

Great video, thank you for taking the time making it 💜. And yeah, fuck mantis and solos, we are fans, we enjoy the content and we trust and support bts and their choices.

what can I say... you said it all , thanks !!!! Excellent radiography, summary and analysis. I am a very rational and critical person , I was never a fan of any group, my tastes are diverse ... and here i am in my 50's...i have listened to the entire musical repertoire of BTS , literally. They fit my taste for diversity ... i have my long list of favorites . The most important thing for me is meaningful music with honesty , and Taking risks + innovation, bts is that one kind of artist that is deeply connected to their songs..... And it's not about appearance, it's about the rebellion of the rules in general of how an artist should be....

Absolutely gold... I can sit through the whole video when it's from you...which is extremely rare for me🙈 Loved this video, especially as an army who loves BTS & their artistry 😇💜

This video is so great, thank you so much for it. I've been an army for 4 years now and I have less and less time for the boys, but many aspects of your video reminded me of how much they mean to me and what I'm thankful to them for. Helped me to feel close to them again and helped me get some things sorted out regarding their ongoing enlistment. There'll truly never be another BTS and I'll be forever grateful for them.

I just spent an hour watching this. It’s so good and well put together. You clearly put so much time and effort into it and it shows. Definitely things media haven’t spent a minute analyzing to actually understand why BTS has connected so deeply with their fans and why the fandom keeps growing. Thank you!

am i a little bit late to watch this video? i am really happy to have this long and in-depth explanation for what i had felt these few years. i am a non-korean, non-kpop asian army, i am very confuse about why and what happened and happening for BTS that they can gather such a huge wave of hater from time to time... that breaks my heart so much but i am not very close to the mainstream media or music or chart or anything like that in the past, i am just a army who start with some BTS dance video then to their music, and then their variety shows. soon i started to find more video and their underdog story was told in pieces in many video for new-army, and i think i might already watch most of them, but you managed to put it out in a more delicate that helps me to really able to understand this more clearly. i am really thankful for your work on this!!!! and i am also thankful for you explain how army feels precisely. i shared most of you said in the video!!

From the transitions between topics to the tieing of the points, the video is simply amazingly done. How long did all this take I wonder?

I'm not yet done watching the video but I'm so excited to see new videos from you! You manage to cut through the fandom bubble and spot where things are going so well. I consider myself an ex-army (not an anti-fan, just not caught up with their recent music as it no longer suits my tastes) and I'm finding this an interesting look at the "BTS phenomenon" as the media, East or West, likes to call it. I think BTS members are really good at showing sincerity. They show very little of their personal lives, but they do talk about the insecurities and fears they have when it comes to their music and careers. It's a very careful balance the members have to constantly maintain. What little they show allows the fans to extrapolate and form certain ideas about what they're like, sometimes reductively so. I still like them (or their public personas, at least) but I won't think to claim I know them as they truly are. Yet the majority of the fans believe they do--they believe they have a personal connection with them (very intense parasocial relationship dynamics here). You can say the same thing about every other kpop group, but it's definitely more intense in the army fandom because they'd been on the outs with other fandoms for so long, that us vs them mentality never went away, and so pushed them closer to BTS and other armys.

Absolutely excellent explanation of why BTS is who they are and why they are successful. Plus why, we as fans love them so much. It's not an easy thing to explain to outsiders at all. I think the love comes because it is indeed this deep and this complex. Thank you!

this is INCREDIBLY well researched. A+, 100%, 10/10. beautiful

Oh wow i've just now realized how much i've stopped caring for the bangtan universe that's crazy,,, i actually really wanted them to continue it with mots7 before it came out but now i'm fine with them not touching it again music/video wise (the webtoon is a different story please whoever the fuck created it i need a continuation please it can't just end like that IT CAN'T END LIKE THAT) but maybe they'll release more notes or something Also i will single handedly make sure this video goes viral or something mark my words this needs to be SEEN 👌

You know a narrator is deep in the fandom that even the inside jokes are clearly explained. Good job! I hope we have more storytellers like you with regards to bts' journey as a person and as a megastar. Also, gurl! I gasped when you added the regrettable "hey!" part in Mikrokosmos not being added; might not be as big but to me it's a good chunk of me as an ARMY. Aaaand, I'm not saying I gave you a side eye ㅡ*bombastic* side eye when you said you don't fancy Make It Right, but I really did give you a criminally offesive side eye. But we good 😘 Love this narrative essay so much. 💜 Great Job!

This is the best bts video I have encountered on youtube. You truly have surpassed professional journalists and really created a video that captures their true essence. I am going to recommend this video to every new and old army. I am so delighted I have come across this video.

‪I'm just at the 7-min and I'm already crying, reminiscing everything they've gone through and remembering how hard it was for me when I was new in this family and still learning this all at once. They're so precious and armys know that. That's why we'll protect them at all cost.‬

And "nobodies to legends" narrative came way late. And none of us in our fandom spread BTS' music because of it. Because at that time BTS was not the only one who was not from big label. There were tons of groups, who even had less budget & opportunity than BTS. The reason to spread BTS' music was simply because once you get to know their music & them, you automatically get the sense that "I gotta show it to other people". We even joke about it. How it is like they planted chip in our head. And at that time BTS was less attacked by industry people. Also it was less shown. The more successful they become, the more obvious industry people' attack become. BTS started to share their earlier stories one by one.(just here & there) Way way later you realize that you were supporting real underdogs. BTS is different not because they are successful underdog story but because these people are different & their music touches people' heart. When BTS became popular in the US, do you know what some Kpop fans said(=the ones who didn't contribute the success that much)? "Oh okay one done. Now let's support other groups." And guess what? it never happened. Because we were not here for underdog story. BTS didn't got huge support because they were underdogs.

I had to watch this a few times but I now know what my favorite part is; the BTU. I find your assessment very accurate, the BTU is not at the core of what holds ARMY to BTS and it isn't what makes any one album "deeper" than another. Depending on the fan, some may absolutely like some lore with their poetic bops, yet the song itself is just as rich without it. After almost 4 years as an ARMY I am happy to see that many are far less insistent on new fans diving into the BTU. Listen to the music, listen to what the members have to say, the rest can come later 😊💜.

Well put together, kind of reminded my why I liked bts the first time around.

I've got my own theories on BTS but I'm always happy to hear your thoughts on this band. This video is spot on by the way.

RU-vid put you in my feed today, and, although the video was over an hour long (!), I decided to give another "introduction to BTS" video a shot. I've been ARMY since 2015 and I've seen all of the "introduction" videos out there, but your take on the BTS phenomena was different and I really enjoyed it. From here I'll check out your channel next and I'm really hoping you either have done, or will do, a continuation of this theme. I'd really like to hear your take on this next chapter that we're currently experiencing with the members. (it's currently 11/29/22) 💜💜

this is seriously good timing, me looking for a video off your channel and finding a new upload! AND i love my bangtan commentary so this video is a TREAT! you seriously did a good job, i saw the comment you left saying this has been in the making for a year and i wanna let yk it was worth it, i love how well it was able to analyze and portray bts and their relationship with music, their come up, armys, etc. well done!

the part about bts has no bad songs resonated with me. i personally have a couple of songs of theirs i just can’t really fully vibe with and i completely agree on your opinion on make it right lol but honestly, i try to find something to not like when they release stuff so that i’m not just blindly hyping them up on every single song. but honestly, their discography is so freaking fire lol i can barely find any songs i don’t enjoy and when i do, if i hear it enough or see choreo for it, i’ll start to love it. like run bts, i wasn’t the biggest fan when just listening to it but once the choreo dropped, it’s one of my favorites lol they have a magic to them. they inject crack in their songs, i swear

I discovered BTS in 2013 and very fast I wanted them to be known by as many people as possible because I believed (and still do) that their art is with knowing. So, I used to spend some hours every night welcoming people and answering questions in the comments under their MVs. Until today, no regrets at all. 😊 When they quit going to variety shows I got so happy!

omg i just finished watching your video and let me tell you it was amazing

oh my god what a coincidence xD I was just looking for your channel and watched few of your old videos because I love your takes, I did not expect this to drop now at all! welcome back

just watching this video, made me fall in love with bts more

This video essay is so brilliantly argued and comprehensive. As an entertainment journalist, I have to agree with the points you make about the media hyping up foreign acts like shiny new toys until they are ready to discard them (we've seen this with PSY for instance), but as I have insight into how (some) media plan their content I have to say that from my experience, the reasons are not usually simple and malicious. For instance, most digitally available media outlets look at the views that their content gets to decide whether the topic is worth pursueing further; and in the case of a lot of media that cater to an older demograhic, the interest in pop artists is just not sustainable. HOWEVER, a very important point you have touched upon is that the media generally looks down upon any piece of art, entertainment, or culture that predominantly catches the attention and hearts of female fans. It frustrates me endlessly.

I'm extremely impressed with this thoughtful, insightful, carefully-worded and well-researched analysis!!

this video was so well made, formatted and presented, wow. it almost feels like a 1st class university dissertation lmao. loved it!

A great video, cant believe i actually had the attention span to watch it not once but twice almost, it's such a good and cohesive project, loved it to bits ♡

I felt like you did a really good job in capturing and explaining the feeling and magic behind BTS. I joined the fandom in 2017, when they started gaining notoriety in America for their hit DNA. I don’t understand why I gravitated so heavily toward them, but I remember hearing the song on the radio and needing to know more, so I googled up their group and watched TONS of intro to BTS RU-vid videos and wrote down what I learned (I still have the notebook lol). I was sucked in by that point. I then discovered their lore and inside jokes, and it made them feel a lot more human than other American artists. I feel like there’s still so much to be said about just the fan culture alone, such as fanfics, shipping (ughh I’m sorry but it happened and we have to deal with it at some point 💀), and SO MUCH more. But I’m kind of glad you didn’t discuss it too in depth and kept the video focused on the band, because (I believe) as you said, people tend to focus more on the fans than the artists. This was a really insightful video and it’s really helped me cope with their hiatus because I’ve been craving “the good old days of BTS content” lol.

ty for making this video because i needed a reminder of why i like bts. it was worth the wait btw this is hq content. also you're right for not vibing to make it right, speak up.

Sorry for the length. I'm watching this in May, 2023, with 2/7 already enlisted. My recent knowledge put the last twenty minutes of your video into better perspective. They had to delay the enlistment. They also still wanted to do the big concert year. They didn't share anything until after the last group concert in Busan, to ensure that everyone received full enjoyment. This proves that every other voice was just speculation, using tones of authority, but all actually from a place of ignorance. It was all politicians and media that had their own agendas. I loved how Jin set everything straight that the group was always going to serve. Once the members themselves spoke, it just reconfirmed to only listen to what the members said. They can do their individual branding and solo releases now, because they are not neglecting any group work. They are each individually filling the time before and after their respective enlistment dates. It wouldn't make sense to do BTS group work without all 7 doing the work together. Once out of the initial early training weeks, they are all still actively in communication with the other members, continuing to support each other. I'm personally glad for the members to be watching in 2023 that each solo and individual work is still as a BTS member and with active support by other BTS members and ARMY. I know how much growing and maturing that each member will go through during their enlistments. I see some of the mantis that you mention, actively wanting to have members serving together. They fail to see that it would be a detriment. In the military, you approach it as an individual and become part of a team. If you only spend time with a previously established friend, you fail to integrate naturally into the team. We want the members to have the best experience possible. Each establishing their own reputations and relationships within the military framework will serve them well. So many of the mantis still fail to realize that the members are all grown men. And in SK, they are culturally reaching the age of creating families of their own with new responsibilities. The members themselves have talked about this. Any ARMY that attempts to interfere with these men building private lives and relationships can't really call themselves ARMY anymore. Some of the members, just recently, have had to even openly discuss on lives how invasive and inappropriate some of the fans have become. Old ARMY is now advocating on the members' behalf to educate new ARMY on how to behave and show respect. I personally look forward to their individual works, as well as the 2025 onward of the group, as they will surely be sharing with us their newly accumulated experiences. Just as I do with all friends and family that went into the military, here in the USA, I wish to pray for the members to stay safe in their minds, hearts, souls, and bodies, as they serve. With the added context of being SK idols, may they be surrounded by trustworthy people as they serve. May they create new lifelong bonds with many of those new teammates. Going forward, I trust that faithful supportive ARMY will remember to honor and make room for those new non-industry friendships. Thank you for all of the hard work that you put into creating and editing this 80 minutes of content. Your sharing the English translations of many of their lyrics within the framework of what was happening in their lives adds even better understanding and appreciation for these men that have grown up before our eyes. I've always enjoyed listening to their music, even without knowing the language. This GenX has known of them all along, yet was too busy to become full-fledged ARMY. I've recently become convinced that I will be diving deeper into their videos, lyrics, and the language. More exposure just leads to more appreciation of all the hard work of the members, the faithful ARMY, and the agency. Content creators like you do them justice. I'm a new subscriber. I for one look forward to decades later seeing them sitting around on stools, still singing as a group, reminiscing as they are surrounded by members and ARMY's grandchildren. There will never be another BTS. They broke all molds, created a new world, and they may inspire, but they will never be able to be copied. 💜😊 PS: There were a lot of comments about only 15 year old girls follow boy bands. That made me chuckle. BTS has never really been a boy band, as you mentioned. They just happened to have all members be boys, now young men. Your viewers should search RU-vid for the clips of male ARMY cheering at a concert. The yell from all of the grown men supporting them in the crowd was so loud that it surprised and shocked the BTS members on the stage. 😂 The love for these guys is universal, international, and has no boundaries of gender nor age.💜😍 Edit: correcting typos, grammar, and clarifications.

I watched this entire video. Simply excellent, insightful, honest. Bang PD can likely develop bands that can be successful. He has a formula. However, BTS is a one-time phenomenon. The magic these OT7 have with each other is not replicable. JiJinKookVNamSope is my forever bias.

Great analysis of their phenomenon! I am a newer American fan and from my perspective I was drawn to their friendships and their sincerity. JK's live streams caught my attention with his boyish charm and pure talent. Then I saw some videos of the group dynamic and was fascinated. You are right that it is difficult to recreate a phenomenon. This group is special and irreplaceable. I am sad to have never seen them in concert. And I am hopeful for their future together and apart. I think these fine young men are well-grounded in themselves and will do great no matter what!

Excellent video! I don't know how I missed this one as it's been out over a year.

Let us not forget social media had also a lot of things to do about the success about BTS. They were just on time when social media became a fad. It made them easier to reach out with people n fan and show off what they can do and their documentaries on social media helped also a lot for them to become famous and of course their hard work and team working is amazing.

I just cannot describe how much I love BTS in one sentence, I just love them a lot. I am proud to be an ARMY. This was a very good video, judging by the title, it's different that what I had expected. Thank you for showing all the backstories and early hardships of our boys. The clips that you played earlier literally brought tears to my eyes. and now I'm crying, it's so well made ugh😭 There is so much left for me to watch.. (cuz I really follow PIED PIPER lol😂😂) I think I'll be spending my old age watching All the BTS Run episodes, The in the soop, Bangtan Bombs, Bon Voyage series, all the stage concerts, all the Musters, all the MV and lyric videos and be proud of stanning them for life 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜 their music literally shaped my mind and who I am today. Their music saved my life when i was at my lowest. I owe them all the Respect and Love that they deserve. Because of them I could learn and speak korean and so much more.. ughh, there's a lot... lol I don't wanna write more 😂 😂

Wow! One of the best ‘history of’, yet. Thank you!!! 💞💜💞

It's rare for me to watch a youtube video this long, but this one I found so well done and complete, thank you and bravo !!

This is the best and through, informative, articulated video I have watched on BTS. I’m a 71 year old Hispanic woman who has listened/ watched BTS through the pandemic. I can honestly say knowing of them and discovering other content they have put out has blown me away. I have never really been a “boy band” fan ( other than the Beatles in the 60’s.) I have been made fun of for liking the video and music….which I think is nuts!

I am no longer an army, not for any reason but the fact the hyperfixqtion simply wore off. Ngl it was really painful to come to terms to as I realised I hadn’t kept up with or thought abt bts or listened to their music for MONTHS bcs they changed me for the better and for two years, we’re a big part of my life. But eventually I came to terms with it and allowed myself to move on, and continue to listen to their music every so often and support them from afar. This is a wonderful analysis and I will deffo be watching it again :)

very fascinating and informational. you've hit on so many things well all ARMYs should watch this tbh

I can’t believe this video doesn’t have more views, I thought it’d have a million when I finished watching it. It’s incredibly well done, the analysis, the details, the outline, everything is accurate and makes sense. Personally what made me fall for BTS wasn’t even their music although I love it now and love their passion and implication to it. What made me fall for them was their bond with one another and how they aren’t afraid to be their true selves around one another. They have beautiful personalities and the way they interact with each other is always so endearingly beautiful

and it's frustrating when they link bts to how toxic kpop industry is as if bts was the industry plant when in fact the get targeted.

A highly recommended video essay from my Twitter moots. I'm just on the first part, and I'm grateful to still learn new things about BTS. Kim Namjoon's story about losing musical colleagues, I wonder how is it now, though I'm positive he gained more connections, too. I just want to suggest removing the closed captions on time stamps where there are clips of BTS and other people speaking in Korean because the closed captions are blocking the subtitle embedded on those clips.

This is such a well made video. I'm only halfway through it, I paused the video to write this comment. I will also add my two cents from my experience of being an almost 10 years old in Army. BTS, after being humiliated by variety shows, took the role of content creators in a way they responded to their fanbase themselves. Not only that, they also accept the trends set by army. Like during April Fool's Army had made a meme of Jin with round sunglasses. And official BTS Twitter used it as their dp. Or when Jin reposted the edited meme of Jin's face photoshopped on The Scream art. Army feels validated, Army feels relatable. It's a huge appeal for a fanbase. Big Hit has the best pr and creative team to oversee the communication through all the social channels. Elaborating the creativity- I joined the fandom because of their storytelling, lyrics and the distinct sound of their music. And I stayed. I find their music is relatable on a very deep level. Their lyrics on financial issues, mental health, deterioration of education system is as prevalent in my ny country as in theirs. And being almost their same age, I find I have suffered, learned and grew along with them. There are so many groups with amazing music and performance that I surely like BUT - BTS has a different something that makes them so popular. To sum up with the end that you have mentioned from Yoongi's comments - 7 different individuals with different values and ideas met a company and debuted. The only difference in this company was that they were able to communicate to each other and all of them were open minded. Thus the ideas amalgamated and became something beautiful that is ruling the world.

Pied Piper told me to get a life and i kindly said no thanks.😤✋

I wish reaction channels would react to this instead of these BTS introduction videos

I love this. You shared things i didn't know. I listened happily and i don't worry if you like every song. You made really good points