When Karma Is An ARMY! (BTS ≠ KPOP Revisited) 

It’s not plushies and games or even simple promotion that made BTS famous. It is their talent and authenticity that attracted us and made us organize for them as fans

Dude this is how I feel. I’ve tried a lot of KPop since coming into BTS. Some songs hit and make it into a playlist or two. But I have whole BTS playlists by the mood, or activity or day. No other group hits me like they do.

I am one of those people who never liked Kpop, being Korean didn't matter. When I heard about BTS and how popular they are - I took the bait and looked them up and became a fan that same night because I couldn't stop watching their performances. After a day of learning who they are, I became an Army. I thought Kpop had changed because BTS was freaking good so looked up all the other Kpop in RU-vid, but they were the same Kpop that I remember. BTS is second to none.

i'm ARMY and i'm not kpop stan. Why? I am open-minded, but my taste does not find a specific artist who has all (or most) of the songs I liked. For example: A band releases an album and I like the title track but I don't like other songs from the album (perhaps the meaning is deep but musically I don't like it, and vice versa). Or the MV is cool, the guys/girls are cool (in character), the dance is also catchy, but musically the song doesn’t suit me at all (not in terms of melody, not in terms of lyrics). Or sometimes the chorus in the song is cool (the dance is cool), but I don’t like the verses in the song. Music is important for me: 1🥇 melody, 2🥈lyrics, 3🥉 (I don’t always pay attention to this point) everything else (choreography / mv/ personality of the performer). I don’t know why it happens, but of all the songs of BTS (more than 300 of them), more than half I like completely and all in all (from dance to lyrics and melody) (they in my playlist and every day I listen to them), even their collaborations with other artists (although not all ARMYs like such songs) where “feat. BTS” / “feat.RM of BTS” etc. Moreover, BTS (in my opinion/how I feel) are different from other Idols, they are more open to the fans, more sincere, more passionate in their work. When they perform , I see in their eyes that what they do they completely like, they are comfortable and nothing presses on them ... . Watching some behind-the-scenes videos of other bands, I don't always feel their complete relaxation/openness. I have about 10 songs of other groups in my playlist where exactly the song (melody, lyrics, MV) I like and that's it 🤷🏽‍♀️. But that doesn't make me a “multi k-pop fan”. . I respect all idols. I don't want to offend other fans of other bands. But music is music. Human “musical taste” is a “taste” that we cannot change just because of the "picture".

17:58 this is me every time I watch one of her videos, its like you have an epiphany on the spot, she pulls the words straight out of your mind and mouth, she deserves more praise

Sebastine..... BTS lyrics are the best!!! I'm going through a depression state and listening to their songs are healing me enough to stop to taking anti depression medicine...... it's not just the looks!!!!

that's ridiculous. as an army, i don't have to listen all kpop singers and groups.

14:35 Um I don’t think so. Almost all new debuting K-pop acts rn are so invested in getting to western and US promotions as fast as possible that they’re completely forgetting about all those music shows and Award ceremonies that need to be surpassed in their own country first. A large reason as to why US promotion is so reachable rn is because BTS did that initial step of gaining popularity in their own country. All K-Pop groups are raised on a pedestal even before they debut thanks to BTS. I think that’s the whole reason a lot of us like ARMY would prefer to stay distant with other acts. They all work hard, of course, but they all live with huge privilege that BTS built. BTS, ever since their popularity started skyrocketing, have been constantly silenced by Korean media. Grammy nominations, AMAs, BBMAs, PCAs, Lolapalooza, PTD concerts in Sofi. This is all unheard of by most Koreans. The amount of shock locals had at BTS’s global success when the Busan concert happened in insane. Ofc other groups work hard and deserve success but it’s downright stupid to say they’re on the same reach as BTS. If BTS, after a decade of fighting in this industry is still outdoing all of K-Pop, if K-Pop groups are still struggling to beat 2018 BTS numbers then it’s clear who is the bigger act. Personally, I’m a casual listener of K-Pop. All the work sounds recycled. Once in a while you’ll get something different, something experimental. How many K-Pop groups have tried releasing slow, no choreo ballads as title tracks and gotten the same numbers as the usual loud, explosive, choreo choreo choreo songs? BTS most definitely have. They have creative freedom that they’re not afraid to bring out.

I also wanted to give my opinion bc i stan both bts and other kpop groups. And i just wanted to say that i know that a lot of people wouldnt be a fan of kpop without bts. I personally became a fan of bts in 2020 after their tiny desk concert. And after some time i started listening to other groups. And 1 thing that is for sure is that bts paved the way. As i just said without them i wouldnt even know of the existence of my ult group. I've seen people in the comments talking about that they are the only ones writing their music and that they were the starting point of writing their music. I can't really say anything about that bc I don't know enough about the whole community. What I do know is that more groups are writing their music and I think that is a beautiful thing to have happened. All these idols have their own story and now have some freedom to write and own their music. This makes it easier to put yourself in the stories and have a feeling of belonging. I don't really listen to bts anymore but they give a sense of nostalgia, something that is not common for me to have. They gave me something that makes me happy. But something that I will never understand is people hating on others bc they have succes. This counts for the kpop community hating bts and the other way around. A lot of groups I have seen talked about bts with a lot of respect and admiration. And talked about them, other groups after bts, not being as popular as they are now without the existence of bts. They know that bts paved their way. The last thing I wanted to add, bc this is getting way too long, is that people shouldn't judge who you are listening to. You shouldn't hate on other people's preferences. If you don't like the music bts makes, that's fine but let that person listen to them. It can be the only thing that keeps them going. But this also works the other way around. I personally think this is really easy, why should you use all your energy for hating on people you don't like if you can use that energy on those you do like. K that was all, a bit long but I just wanted to get this off my chest.

Yeah.. i common thing i see is them saying bts did not pave the way because they actually made it harder for other groups to breakthrough in the west . I mean i did notice that some interviewers in the west find a way to include BTS in interviews or articles but it's not BTS or armys fault though.. you cant stop stars from shining but i do understand their sentiments

I've known them since their debut.. heck, I even watched their debut stage on TV with my sister.. but I wasn't a fan back then.. I'm more into girl group.. but as a older Kpop fan, let me tell you something., When Korea wasn't give attention that they deserved back then, they gained a lot of international fans.. & the song that made them more popular was 'DOPE' back in 2014.. & then they released Fire, Blood Sweat and Tears.. those songs made their international fanbase growing.! And started from there, their fanbase was growing & keep growing till today. .

The song that truly blasted them into the mainstream was dynamite. Even people who would swear they've never heard BTS before will recognize dynamite 🤷🏽‍♀️🖤💜

The irony the sameones who complained about Bts getting all the western attention didnt want to give them attention and Bts/ BigHit are the definition of getting it from the ground up aka organically, Bts journey took you on a ride of everything they experienced from being a group of 7 boys who shared one room together, not getting respect, air time/etc to being one of if not the best boy band of this generation plus Bts fans see that hard work they go hard for them we see the passion, work ethic they continue to put in, and the love they have for army. I do like some other Kpop artist but BTS is the rag to riches group that people like myself love and appreciate WE (Army) love the underdog story plus I can appreciate also how Suga, Rm, and Jhope have a authenticity love,admiration, and RESPECT for hip hop how they STUDIED IT , LOVED IT, and EMBRACED the culture of it and not use it as a facade thats another big difference between them and other Kpop artist, Who just use hip hop for the anesthetics but don't have a passion for it. I can go on and on but BTS is just different and fans see it/ feel it. KARMA is definitely an ARMY and BTS are just that one in a million mega global stars( Icons) that have proven organic will always WIN. Because of Bts I want to travel to Korea, I want to experience Korean food and I get into Kdrama as far as I'm concerned they need to be thanking BTS for exposing alot of us to Koreans culture lets not forget BTS has contributed 3.6 trillion dollars to the Korean economy look at how many other Westerners have came to Korea just based off BTS...... At this point Bts dosen't need Kpop, Kpop needs Bts.

Dynamite was the song that put them on the map, that or Butter. Those were absolutely massively...gigantically enormous. It blew up everywhere. Their previous songs made lots of impact too, but I don't know maybe its the fact that those were in English and it tripled the army fandom....or maybe because we were all bored and on our devices during the pandemic and got hooked by the lighthearted song. In terms of final getting recognition, I wasn't I NEED U, that was more impactful in Korea, in USA it was BS&T or Fake Love

Like I don’t know how often I saw articles and companys using the term “ making or creating the next bts“ they are still degrading them and they are still so disrespectful to use this term with the next bts when the group is still active 🫠

bts paved the way.

I try to stan other groups like I am watching and learning other group for about few hours and I am just finding my self watching Bts videos at the end of the day. Bts is my home and no one can ever replace them in my heart.

She also has another great video about many of the things BTS have done are now popular for other newer groups to do. She explains the difference in BTS being the first ones and BTS being the first to do something on a regular basis so now other companies and newer groups do it. It is really great and informative. Yes, BTS is so much different than "the industry" and yet they set new standards for and changed the industry at the same time.

I remember when I was in school and doesn’t know anything about kpop and not I was not interesting I listen in all the parks in Chile people listen and dancing blood sweat and tears. I notice this was a song that I listen in everywhere in pandemic when I start to listen BTS and become an army. It’s crazy

I saw that tweet from Tassia at the time. My point: ARMYs relationship with BTS is not just a casual listener of particular set of songs. It is more than that, way more than that. BTS became a part of each ARMYs lives. BTS for me is not just our 7 guys but it is the whole team. Those people who have been there with them,thru thick and thin. Those people who become their strength whenever they need it. They become who they are today because of everyone's contribution. We are all that special gift to each other.

No. These labels definitely want western attention. They’ve tried multiple times to recreate bts’ promo but none have really succeeded. Promo is really important but bts blew up because they’re bts. Also keep in mind we’re really the main ones promoting them, we worked really hard over the years to make them known

I have never been a fan of ANY band.... The closest I got to be one was when I discovered Queen, but I just don't care about the artists's personalities or lives I just care about the music.... BTS shook my core and is an special case but I still don't care about anyone else.... I just listen to music that I find randomly and honestly the narrative of shoving kpop down my throat just makes me want to avoid the industry even more.

BTS has brought so much happiness to my life, not that I was really miserable before, but I am a lot happier. BTS makes music that resonates with me. I have found all I need from artists in BTS, their songs, content, and their individual personalities, make my day everyday...not to forget their authenticity and genuineness...BTS is the complete artist package. They love music and have music for just about every emotion I may be experiencing. They inspire us to find our own strength from within to push forward. They are such good people/artists, who are truly appreciative, love and always routing for their fans. What other artist writes multiple songs about their fans? They are on the top of the world and still humble as ever, which makes me a very proud fan. I have listened to other kpop acts, but they are not my cup of tea. I stand proud to be a loyal only BTS fan...not a kpop fan. 💜

She always spills the tea and speaks facts. I love it. Like the video said, Army's are music fans and the numbers that match in different platforms and concerts are proof of that. K-pop grew up a lot too after BTS got their Top Social artist the BBMAS (BTS PAVED THE WAY), but they never succeed as them and that reason is because they don't have artist identity, and if they have, the majority of times was created for their company. That's why there's so many groups and concepts in k-pop that are so similar and it's still pretty unusual to find idols being part of the credits of a song (I think this is slowly changing tho) One thing for sure is that BTS is special and they are so talented, they and BigHit have made so many good concepts, created crazy story lines and a lot of more creative content. BTS always have succeeds with that and that's why other groups and solos are doing the same thing now. BTS trendsetters. 💜🙌🏻 Some Armys are multi stans but A LOT of us are not and that's simply because we are not obligated to support the whole K-pop industry. If you like other artists and became a fan too? good. If you gave other idols an opportunity but you didn't like them it all or you are more like a casual listener? good. It's really not that hard to accept that and I think all those k-pop journalists and kpoppies should understand that. Now talking about my experience with k-pop and my story with BTS, I actually only knew 2NE1 and BigBang way before and I listened to their music for years. One day, I wanted to watch the 'I am the best' MV by 2NE1 bc I remember watching it just like once in my life. Anyways, after that, I just kept watching and watching more MVs about them and the next day, YT recommended me a new video that was released that day and it was 'Fire' by BTS. I literally fell in love immediately with them and bc of them I really got deep into k-pop. I started listening to a lot of artist and I even started to call myself a "fan" of a lot of them (Now I just really stan a few). But over time, I discovered that even if I like their MVs, visuals, some songs, etc. That was it. like I didn't feel anything that make them really different from the others or something special like I feel with BTS. I started to realized that in awards and stuff I was just wishing for BTS to win bc I always had the feeling that they really deserve to win bc they are real artists. And I'm not wrong lol. With the lack of support from my part to the other idols and the fact I was feeling bad bc of that, I realized that I wasn't being truthful with myself and I decided to stop calling me a fan of a lot of groups and more like a casual listener. After doing that and over the years, I can understand why k-pop didn't get bigger along with BTS and why it's so easy for kpoppies to stan an amount of groups and unstan like nothing happened. I could never with BTS! I was born with purple blood. 💜 (I'm not saying there's no loyal fans there or whatever, but I see this a lot and I literally went through it, but decided to be more honest with myself and just call myself part of a fandom only If I really find connected with the artist).

As for the 'Gangnam Style' of BTS, I'd say I Need U. I was among the many who first properly got into BTS with that comeback, and that album. This was also brought up in one of the BTS guides. They completely changed their style, or moreso the overall vibe. But that's just my own two cents.

13:40 Honestly, I only "stan" BTS. That being said, I've been listening to kpop since the 90s and enjoy a lot of kpop music and groups. I think it's best just to be chill and just love what you love and do what you do as long as you don't hate on others.

I came to BTS via V"s Stigma and Singularity and had no idea who he was or his relationship to BTS. I am now a fan of each individual member. Well I'm still down that rabbit hole. As a fan of K- Drama you see the industry formulas and then a genius series like Squid Games pops up. BTS may have been born out of K-Pop but has become it's own industry. They are all so talented and together they entertain like no others.

connecting to the conclusion of the video, a big example is how a lot of people listen to dynamite on the radio and assume that that's BTS. i've heared youtubers who are experts in music, who have degrees from prestigious music schools and whose opinion i highly respect, think of BTS as mainstream and cliché because of their english viral songs which as army's, we know that those were released to make people feel better and there wasn't a real message behind them that came from deep withing, it was just to cheer people and make them feel better (which is still commendable). unfortunately we tend to judge people from their popular music and the songs that chart but usually those are the catchy ones that get played a lot on the radio. you definitely won't hear a song dealing with depression and mental illness on the radio. this goes for all artists and for BTS it's even stronger because they are korean. when i first bumped into BTS, i saw their performance at the AMAs because i used to watch award shows and i loved it and i felt pride that an Asian artists was achieving so much. as a foreigner myself, i was fascinated about their ability to break cultural barriers. i unfortuntely didnt keep up with them until last year when i watched their tiny desk performance and i was so blown away by their talent and their beautiful music that i decided to dive in

BTS is my number one group that I’m involved with and I’m an army through and through. However, throughout my kpop journey, I’ve been able to listen to other groups as well. Even though I’m not in their fandom(s), I do enjoy other groups, especially Red Velvet, Twice and now I’m getting into Stray Kids. Even though I wouldn’t call myself their fans, I do like to listen to other groups. BTS definitely paved the way.

The song that introduced me to BTS, was Butterfly, strangely enough. I randomly started searching BTS, hearing them mentioned by so many people online. I was merely curious. On an intro to BTS video I heard Butterfly and saw,a clip of them dancing to it. That was it for me. Down the rabbit hole I went. BTS introduced me to KPop. They will always be first, but I stan a few other groups and several solo artists.

"It's like trying to put water on a greasefire." Well said, well said.

I’m ARMY for years and have gone through my fair share of groups and I’ve tried to Stan them but I have few groups a i actually care about because it’s exactly what she said K-pop pumps out machines not groups

Dynamite reeled me in (who wouldn’t be? It’s such a catchy song!😊) however it is not my favorite and so is Butter. It’s actually their overall discography that made me stay. The fact that they experiment and make songs in different genres is so refreshing. You don’t know what you’re gonna get next.😊 I love that they have their own identity as artists which sets them apart from other KPOP groups. I used to listen to the most popular girl group in KPOP. They have a couple of old songs that I found really fun. But as I try to listen to more of their other songs (even the their new releases), I found myself turning away from their music because it always has the same sound. Yes the MVs are so well produced. Their makeup and fashion’s always on point, but at the end of the day, it is the music that I am most interested in. And I am not getting that satisfaction for my own listening pleasure from the music they release. **(I also tried other groups like EXO, Enhypen, NCT, Stray Kids. They’re all cute and fun to watch but the music just doesn’t cut it for me. One or two songs are O.Kz but the rest are meh. I actually preferred listening to other Korean soloists than groups.) Meanwhile, it is the complete opposite with BTS music. They have a song for a lot of different genres. Their songs have a certain sound and uniqueness that appeals to not only Koreans, but also to the global audience. You can remove their outfits and let them wear regular clothes, their makeup and all that other fancy stuff, and I will still listen to their songs. I don’t need to see them and still feel I am in good company just by listening to their music.😊

There is something BTS has that other Groups don‘t have and it‘s complete artistic freedom which results in credibility. They write about their lives and thoughts and project it with their music. Also the encourage for self love and acceptance plays a big role. People can identify themselves with BTS. Edit: When someone paves the way naturally others follow that doesn‘t mean they are as good or as authentic.. BTS is not comparable with anyone in the „K-Pop Industry“ and thats the whole point of that video. It’s not just about writing any lyrics. The emphasis is on "complete" and „credibility“. Not being able to choose your own hair color or someone telling you which concept you have to fit in next is not complete artistic freedom.. It goes from choosing what to wear daily to choosing your setlist at a concert. Independence in song choices, writing about sensitive topics, choreographing your own dance. BTS isn’t the first Korean group who made music, but they are the ones who did it the best. I haven‘t seen a single successful Idol yet who started as low as BTS. People believe in the messages they put out because they did all of this on their own and know how it is to struggle by yourself. It’s credible because it‘s the true. They are untouchable yet humble. All of those factors combined is where the success comes from.

8:04 Your expression 🤣🤣 and that‘s what’s called mediaplay, so something or someone can appear bigger as it is 😉 Thanks for the reaction 🙏

20:40 you missed the point but also contradicted yourself by explaining why you shouldn't have missed it, you confused me😭 justin, the weeknd and drake are different genre artists so probably won't attract the same audience, you said it yourself. so how does that NOT correlate to kpop?? kpop isn't a genre either!! kpop idols do many different genres of music too. it's just an industry. just like any other country in the world - for example canada. there is no musical reason for people to wish to follow all of kpop collectively.

Not dynamite because they were already immensly popular during dynamite era... i'd say fake love was the song that made them more popular in the west.. their first song to enter billboard hot 10

about what you said that opportunity plays a big role: that's the thing, bts didn't have those opportunities, so they decided to go the hard way and instead to do whatever they liked. kpop industry on the other hand has opporunities inside the country because certain labels were able to manopolize it, but they had and have no clue how to have opportunities with the indusustry outside. and instead of focusing on the artistry, they're too focused on that, which leads them to faking those opporunities and achievements, presenting them bigger than they are. and in the end? you see arenas, stadiums being empty, but they headlines "x kpop group is the first kpop group since bts to do x". so all they care about is to have what bts has on paper, on title, but not in reality. why? because it gives them access to other things, like luxury life, magazine covers, brand deals, etc etc. basically, money. the issue is that that kind of "success" makes those gorups very replacable. bts' has IMPACT and are first and foremost excelling and bettering their music, artistry, and that sticks with people more. especially when it's done so well as bts does it. that's why they're never going to be replaced. there will be other successful groups in the future, maybe, but they will never be able to replace bts or become another bts. that's why their success is so long running and why their music is basically eternal

Watching this while thinking of my 5 ult groups who have huge artistic freedom… (let me add, they all have freedom to be involved in their music, the whole process.. some learning and doing more every comeback but the freedom is there, only 3/5 are fully involved) I have so many thoughts 😂 glad I watched this with you honestly. I saw this posted a few days ago and was gonna watch but me having 5 ult groups, one of them obviously being BTS, I wasn’t sure how much I’d be able to agree wholeheartedly with every single thing said. I’ll forever be an army, 5 years going strong… so I get where she’s coming from with alot of what she said and even agree but some stuff I’m like yeahhhhh.. it’s so hard watching these types of videos when your ult groups are so much alike, which is why they’re my ult groups.. they’re all a safe place. Great video tho, absolutely great video. And I personally think in the west, dna put them on the map (in Korea? BS&T put them on the map) but dynamite pushed it to a totally different level cuz they were growing slowly with love yourself era, organically.. oh how I miss that era too. Dynamite was just suppose to be a fun light song to lift the mood of anyone that enjoyed it but DAMN that song outdid itself more than they ever imagined it would. And had it not been for the pandemic, that song wouldn’t exist.. neither would butter or PTD. Imho. BE probably wouldn’t either and that album NEEDS to exist. So I’m glad it happened the way it did, despite the pandemic obviously. She’s not wrong, I just keep thinking about my 5 ult groups and others and I’m like “yeah, but…” 🤷🏻‍♀️😂🤷🏻‍♀️ I don’t feel like getting into that. I just know BTS paved the way and other artists acknowledge that all the time.. and yeah, some companies don’t wanna focus on the west and I mean that’s fine.. altho I feel it’s mostly SM with exo cuz they didn’t really push the west that much (that I know of) but they’re very much loved in Korea. Every other company and their groups do aim at international fans as a whole, with a slight more push to the west.. and it’s understandable because of how huge Kpop has gotten (thanks to BTS mainly as of 2017-present). Others have tried but didn’t stick for whatever reasons. Company’s fault? Idk. I’ll continue as an army for as long as BTS are on earth honestly, but that also does for my other ult groups 😆 just saying! I enjoy music, and group members dynamic with each other - my 5 ult groups are each a family 🫶🏼 and I feel you need that kinda support and love in this harsh industry.

25:15 ......i've met too many girls who fantasize about going to korea to meet korean guys and live a dream kdrama life to not be wary of fetishizers. Also, I've encountered enough men with "yellow fever" through out my life to be able to recognize appreciation and preference versus festizhizers hahaha. Being fetishized teaches you a lot about certain people.

I would say I need u. That song was their first to chart high in the billboard 200

the video literally says that bts does not have a ‘gangnam style’ because ‘gangnam style’ was a one hit wonder and bts don’t have one hit wonders since they always get more popular after each release, so it’s kind of pointless to try to pin point exactly which of their song is their ‘gangnam style’

It's a simple as dont beg people to like other groups /artists similar to your faves. Because for me i like many many artists before bts. From all diff genre. But only bts made me really like a super fan. Like i really promoted myself to an army. Im sure many armys who are not a fan of other groups also 'like' them. Like me, i like attention and hypeboy, i dont like the MV, i find them cute, the chorus is so catchy, i like those 2 songs only but that's it. I find lapillus cute since 1 of the members has the same nationality as me i only like 1 of their songs. Things like these are very common. But becoming a fan is a diff thing. I cant find myself buying merch, consuming all the music, story, etc of any other artists. Not that i dont like, it's just that i find no connection to them. That's what armys find in bts, THE EMOTIONAL CONNECTION.

bts don't have a gangnam style. every new release puts them more and more on the map, they don't have a one hit wonder that universally did so like what gangnam style is. if you say songs that put them on the map For The First Time (which is a different question than what the video said about psy though) - i need u (or boy in luv) in korea, dope worldwide, dna or fake love in the us. dynamite is their biggest hit but not what put them on the map - they were already on the map.

Here's my thoughts on your Question & Supplementary: WHAT's BTS' "gangnam style" = HIT song that helped them succeed in the WESTern Market. ~ The song that really BLEW up in the US was DNA (it's their 1st song that debuted on the US TV) ~ But BTS was already existing in the American Music since their debut in 2013 w/ 'No More Dream' (it may not be very evident but they're already part of the American Music in the first place) REASON for this: ~ They debuted as a HIPHOP group w/c is far different from the conventional Kpop. They used the revolutionary HipHop/Rap music w/c was a thing/mainstream all over the world in early 2000's. So the 2000's Hiphop/Rap genre was basically a fun music made for clubs/parties or more often than not, it was a music to dance to. The main difference of BTS' style from the hiphop/rap of 2000's was BTS' music is a mix of CLASSIC 80's-90's RAP + 2000's Hiphop/Rap genre (but the topic was not for fun but about themselves & some serious topics w/c has the same style in the 80's-90's Rap genre). This is also the very reason why since debut the majority of their listeners were not Korean. They had more fans in the US than in SK in 2013-2014 bc of their genre. After which, their discography changed & reshaped another vibe (SKOOL LUV AFFAIR) but still their previous style of mix is still evident. Then they reinvent their style w/ modern sound mixed w/ their classic style & infused pop genre ~ this is the time when they slowly gain more Korean fans. The Journalist's Question Why other Kpop groups doesn't get any much attention & only focuses on BTS: ~ Aside from artistry, good music should possess AUTHENTICITY & SUBSTANCE. I can enumerate a lot more but I'll just mention these 2. The generation of Kpop Idols who debuted after BTS has already started to study on how make their own music (prod/compose) BUT there's only a few of them in boy grps & non in the typical girl grps (including the most hyped gg today they don't compose their song, it's always TEDDY lol). Other boy grps that can make their own music has several disadvantages like there's only 1 in the grp who has the skill, then the rest will make their lyrics BUT NOT guaranteed in the song, either someone else will revise it/ change it all & their label still has the final say on all aspects as mentioned in the vid ~ Main reason why there's no GROWTH in musical skills when u're under the "Conventional Kpop" System it's just about money & face value, a disgusting blackhole. Ending will always be disbandment of groups or they'd leave their label. That's why it doesn't qualify for ARTISTRY at all bc they don't give justice to their music - a complete waste. **BTS is an ARTIST and not a Kpop Idol** They are the "BIGGEST POP Group on the PLANET" - the only good thing that GRAMMY made in the history. BTS is a Monster in Music Industry & will always be significant in the future. The way BTS perceives music is FAR different from others. They never stop from growing as an artist. They continuously adopting, exploring their own sound & not scared to new challenges in every release, so avid listeners will never be bored, & they still gain new listeners each time. They're the only grp who doesn't cling much to cliches. They tackle more about societal/social issues & relatable topics in life that's why their fanbase is also diverse.

I know a lot of people were upset at the original vid because there do exist other groups that make music personal to them, however these are all exceptions. A handful of groups out of literally hundreds active at any given time cannot drag an entire industry into the mainstream. So yes, SKZ and Ateez and whoever else have more artistic control but then all that happens is the bulk of people stan them, not Idol music as a whole. So what changes in the industry? Nothing, that's what. So until the industry changes their procedures, those handful of groups will continue to be exceptions and the Idol industry remains as is. Like, what do people want to hear? It's the industry's job to make their acts attractive. It is not a listener's job to promote the industry to others. Side note: Kpoppies need to make up their minds. The Idol industry is either filled with diverse acts with music unique to them, thereby making it perfectly reasonable for a person to only stan one or a few groups OR the music is largely similar and that's why they think someone should have an interest in many groups. Because if this music is so vastly diverse and in no way sounds the same, what kind of sense does it make to ask, "If you like Group A then how can you not like Group B?" Kpop stans say the music is not all the same with one breath and then speak as though one group is just as good as another with the next. Pick a struggle.

As someone who loves BTS, but is not a K-Pop fan, I totally agree with her synopsis. I love BTS because I love music, and their respect for, love for, and knowledge of music is what drew me to them. Not to mention getting to know them as people after becoming ARMY. I love THEM. Sure, I'm open-minded, and there are other K-Pop groups or songs that I've listened to, but BTS will always have my heart and my loyalty. They're just different; they're a genre of music all their own, and they surpass the formula of the K-Pop industry. No one does it like they do. Period. This is why they're loved the world over...

I tried other Kpop groups and it's not even close to BTS songs.. lyrics... you are entitled to listen others I'm staying with BTS !!!!!!!! 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜

Big Hit started promoting BTS in America back in 2014 when they were filming America Hustle Life, Run BTS and other things. For the most part, the traditional k-pop industry promotes in South Korea. BTS has made them realize that maybe they should promote outside. Also, BTS is known for their R&B, Trap, EDM and Hip-hop tracks. They don't do typical pop music. They focus on meaningful lyrics and thoughtful concepts. Bangtan is just different.

Respectfully, kpop fans keep saying that we don't try to listen to other groups, honestly i have tried listening to different groups, to me it was only one or two of their songs that i liked but after checking their other songs or discography, it's no! It straight away made me to not look back to them again. But incase of BTS it's s not like that, they have so much of diversity in their music from lyrics to concepts and themes etc they always bring something new to the fans , they raised the standards very high

Idol was a clap back at people saying they were too westernized

Well, here is one who dont listen beauty, views, models, awards or big fandoms... I listen music and lyrics that somehow touches me and in my playlist has lot of different type music (Lizst, Rammstein, Elvis, One ok rock, Luis Armstron, David Bowie, Muse...). From kpop, BTS is that one. I like watch kpop MVs - new and older ones and 'making them' but in my playlist is just few other songs from kpop artists than BTS. Sorry my english and greetings from the edge of Europe

She is good love her channel. And I have to agree that it is about the music and the message the music is sending out to the world. BTS opened the door for me to explore other K-Pop groups and genres but if the music isn't good why am I going back? If you are shoving your artists into a mold and not letting them expand and grow as an artist it is not sustainable. It's easier to list the genres BTS has not done so let your artists be artist not robots.

V grew up. Blood sweat and tear song dancing and he pops out as evil.

She put aaaaaall the dots over the Is. Love it!!!

I guess there are more 'army's who also watches other kpop contents' than 'other kpop fans who watches bts'. I have seem MANY other fandoms being "jealous" I don't want to call it that way ,but it is the truth. They hate bts because they are more famous and call them overrated, which is definitely not true . Like bts are the one who introduced kpop to SO many people

18:24 This is the reason Yoongi is so sure that he can still go up on stage and perform at the age of 60

As a thought of mine on k-pop right now, as i see it, its in its transitioning state, and its either gonna be, where idols really become artist, with the freedome, more groups like DPR(Dream Perfect Regime) appear, and the idol scene becomes less of a product place, or it becomes even worse, with more control over artists, because the latest k-pop releases, are sounding super off, its either all the same, have a funny sound, that doesnt appeal to me personally, or dont have anything catchy, Itzy for example, i like their earlier releases, but the later ones, sound super common, with all the same themes. I feel like BigBang, Exo, and BTS spoiled me in that way, by having many themes to their songs, reflections on different feelings, energy, that it lead me to being picky. If its only me, then i can understand, because i grew up listeting to many genres, from Hip-hop, to metal, and not everyone has the same experience.

Oh that's where you're wrong, dear. These labels want to be out in the western sooo bad. You can plenty of videos of their several attempts to not only make it but replace bts.

I think they got put on the map with all their songs. Because every song resonates differently with each person. There will be that one song that yanks you in and the rest of their songs ,their vibes, their absolute love they have for ARMY for each other and the care they put in.....that keeps you.

Its hard to pick BTS's "Gangnam style" but if I had to pick a few I would say: DNA, Boy w/ Luv, & Dynamite

Yes she really do a amazing she deceive a lots more praise..and you too as Army you nice keep going Sebastine😊

I am an Army and I do listen to few k-pop song from different groups. But if I have to define how they are different I would just say "I check for Bts's song lyrics, their rap references and their behind stories as to how they came to write that song but when I listen to other groups songs I don't do that". Moreover it was BTS'S songs that made me look into different genre like old school hip hop, like Kendrik, Kanye, Baby Keem, Eminem, and Missy Elliot and RnB ( I am from India and have grown up listening Bollywood songs) BTS add their personal touch to their songs, it's credible, authentic and their songs are a gateway into their personal struggles, personal victories and tell their stories but whereas even if other groups have deep meaningful songs I somewhat feel that it doesn't connect with them on a personal level. ( Well hip hop songs did this to me I can't listen to songs unless their meanings are deep as hell).

I need you... is the start of it all 💜💜

Actually Bang PD formed the BTS identity around RM cause he knew wherever RM took it would be excellent and creative. He was right, of course. I'm OT7 btw, love them all equally. I'm just talking about how they started. The other members have mentioned this frequently as well.

True DNA and BS&T put them on many peoples map including myself but in recent years those who came even after me I'd say it's probably between the English onces like Butter and or Dynamite like there have been so many people be like "Oh I can understand that now in my mind" and now where everyone is putting out a Solo project too there will be again a New wave of Newbies.

Kpop industry did Nothing what bts has done. The only thing they did is undermine BTS's success by making it as a success of kpop while they kept shadowing and frickin taking away the credits of bts. Kpop literally Rides behind BTS's back

My Two Youngest Daughter's Lorelai and Sadé put me on top BTS when I was in the middle of grieving the Death of my fiance Michael. I watched him die from a stroke Christmas Eve 2017. I heard Fake Love,,, and fell in Love with their music,,, and proceeded to Binge watch ALL their music videos. 👍🏾💪🏾💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜

I like mostly all music but I love BTS. I still listen to a lot of American/Western Artists. I have my favs. I went to see; Bad Bunny, Twice, Bruno Marz & BTS this year in concert. All concerts were great. I loved them but there is something special about a BTS concert. It's just the professionalism BTS shows. It's the details. I remember the first time I ever saw Jimin do a flip over Jhope or the first night I ever saw BTS Perform FIRE. They came out from under the floor, everything looked like it was on FIRE and you heard RM, we are BTS. I see the expression on Jhope's face. He looks like he's mentally getting ready for battle, getting ready to SLAY...and he did! From the beginning they were just better than the others. Even with these younger groups copying their every move, They are good. BTS keeps reinventing their styles, their looks, their moves. They are always reaching for the stars and as a fan, I appreciate the hard work. And the song that changed everything for BTS was Blood Sweat & Tears

she always spills the truth

Alongside BTS's hard work that goes into each songs (production, lyricism, choreography, etc), they show their authentic selves. They aren't manufactured idols like 95% of kpop where they're forced to interact or forced to show some skinship. They aren't awkward in public or in show interviews when asked about their brotherhood or personal lives. BTS aren't forced to like their own music, they've said before they don't really like their English hits and they're real for that. Everything comes naturally to them, the love they have for their fans and for music as a whole comes naturally to them. That's why they're so big is because they don't feel "fake" like other kpop artists. They have a genuine connection to fans, music, and for the little things in life. They also have a vast amount of knowledge on music and other subjects, making them relatable to even non-kpop/non-BTS fans. Namjoon is about his fine arts, Jungkook about his athleticism and lifestyle, Yoongi about his music production, etc. They don't just talk about it, they show it to the world. People can say Armys ruined KPOP all they want but BTS are the only kpop artists I know who only need one thing to have people hooked and that's their music, as said in the video. Performances, visuals, trendy outfits, etc. are optional for them. Their music is timeless.

Imo, as for the bts song that put them on a map is DNA. Because Love Yourself era was big big and manages to catch a lot of locals (because of their performance and the army phenomenon, this is also after they won the social awards and had their first debut with DNA). 2017 is the year when BTS break through the western market and keep going up. While BS&T (or HYYH & Wings era) is when people start to see the fire starting to ignite, not big yet but it made people look at them. For 3 years, people thought *oh BTS would fade* so they still being treated just like a trend or crazy phenomenon but then Dynamite came and they broke tons of records and finally got GRAMMY nom, that’s when they secured their place as a group that would stay and make a statement.

2:29 Its different for everyone. Its the song that introduced us to BTS for most of us.

also armys been sitting for hours during awards shows waiting for bts who always performa last, watching performances before bts, you still think we don't give a chance to others?

Also see please react to Boracity's "Jin an underrated silver voice" you don't wanna miss it

They did take the opportunity tho, they've been using bts and milking them. But they just couldn't lmaoooo

Also I think is most armys watch the Award shows and if I really like a group for the music because of their performance they would listen to it right? And everybody and their mother on Twitter calling it absolutely unfair that we wouldn't give anybody else a chance because me wouldnt listen to them Like come on Like why didnt anybody Tell me I have to stan the whole industry Just because I Like bts songs

BTS was INVITED to bbmas back in 2017 because their billboard achievement was so amazing back then.! Even kpop group that were popular back then in their home country couldn't achieved what BTS achieved.. & I think, after BTS first invited to America award shows more & more, a lot of Kpop labels sending their artist to America to have what BTS have.. but they just simply couldn't broke to the market like BTS.. Sorry for my bad english btw..

The most important way they became so big was their fans doing the English subs !!! Just regular fans would do that!!

I'm love that's video, thanks Seb for reaching 🥰💜💜💜💜💜💜💜🇧🇷

ARMY vote for BTS MAMA, I purple you all💜💜💜💜💜💜💜 and I just can't believe that they blamed ARMY for not liking the other groups. I watched the original video and in the comment section the people were saying they had checked out other kpop groups and they didn't like them as much a BTS. that is not there fault... to each there own, but they had to blame it on BTS and ARMY. But it did back fire. keep up the good work, love the videos.

BTS IS UNIQUE BECOZ THERE SONGS LYRICS IS BASE ON THERE EXPERIENCE AS HOW THEY START. THATS SO MEANINGFUL AND INSPIRING. 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜

Loved this and loved your reaction! I said the same thing on her video that i am open minded and like music. So once I became Army i tried exploring other kpop groups and honestly, I didn't like most of what I saw. Save 1 or 2 groups, most just made flashy meaningless (and frankly bad) music. There's nothing inherently bad about that but i got bored. It felt shallow and unattractive. She's right, I like some kpop songs, but no group really other than bts. That's my opinion, my experience. It may not be the same for all and not everyone may agree but some may relate to it. Sorry but i just think kpop is overrated. They're all cool, funny talented people (though I feel most 4th gen idols can't really rap or sing save a few) but there's nothing unique about them, there's no artistry, story, message or creative freedom. Like she said, there's no growth and it's frustrating and saddening cause I feel like they are wasting their potential by being a kpop idol. Sure it pays, gives you fame and exposure but that's it. And if that's all you want then fine. But if any of them want to try being real musicians, kpop is not the answer. Ofc this does not apply to everybody (skz, svt) but most of the industry yes. And I've seen even the idols are tired of it and want different things but company doesn't let them. So until I see changes, I don't think I will like kpop. Until then I will keep supporting bangtan and be a happy army. 💜 ALSO VOTE ON MAMA.

Agree. I did try to give other groups a chance when I first became an Army. Mind you that I'm SouthEast Asian, my friends are all fans of Gen 2 Idols at some point, and I did not join them, because I did not like how the industry work. I thought BTS was the same, until one friend introduced me to one of their B-side songs. I became fan of BTS, not KPop in general. Sometimes I do find some songs good, some of Blackpink, some of Exo, some of SVT etc. But I did not become fan of other groups other than BTS. Recently I came closer to become a fan of SVT and G-Idle, but then realize why I'm ok with becoming fan of some groups only but not KPop in general , because they have an artistic identity, or at least some voice in their own music and vision. YG himself said, that when creating Blackpink, he's trying to create another YG girl group but prettier than 2NE1. And some Babymonster MV I came across, I seriously thought it was a BP MV I did not know of until I look closer. They are the 'YG girl group', representing the view of a company, a CEO, not themselves. And that's I think is the main issue I have with the KPop industry. Think of the plagiarism scandals that just pop up out of no where once in a while, most of them are about style, hair style, clothes, concept, photo, performance background etc, all visuals. And think of the 'Western' plagiarism scandals, they are about sounds, using other people's voice without giving the right credit etc, all about music. Not saying that the western music industry are better, they are all BS btw. But as a music listener, I remain my right about not being interested about KPop in general. And I don't think I have the time to become hard core fan of more groups, I will respect every KPop acts trying to find their own voice, their own sound in an industry whose main focus is in visual like KPop.

Also caught up with the Justin Bieber part, I’m a belieber also and yes all people have different tastes and there are no real comparisons to BTS or JB…. I don’t know if I’m making sense here… anyway. With KPOP I only really get into BP. I guess maybe stray kids a little, other kpop music I can’t really get into it bc it’s too bubbly for me, now it may not be true for others but that’s my feeling when I listen. BTS is like their own world, completely different from anything else and that’s why I love them. So many different things happening with them and I love it! Ok maybe I’m done now lol!

"I need you"was their first BIG hit

Im an Army since early 2014 and let me tell u.... I started to see people watching BTS , in my country when they dropped DNA!!! So I'd say that fire and I need u got them Korea.. but DNA def put them on the map... SOLID. Then Boy with luv and Dynamite made them what they are now

BTS has boosted the sales of other KPOP groups

Its 1 year later but IMO idol. I came to bts because of run bts etc. I didn't even listen to their music because I'm a metalhead. Then... curiousity got me because I heard they produce their music. That's all I needed. I'm still a metalhead. I only stray for bts, lmao. I hope metal doesn't find out I'm cheating on it. xD

Before i jump into BTS world...i'm a big fan of glam rock and metal music...i love bon jovi,metallica,linkin park and many mores...and i'm the one who anti kpop scene and not really likes bts until the pandemic,and i heard dynamite at that...thats the beginning of my journey loving bts and their music...you know what,i tried to listen to other kpop group but its not my type...and i only love bts...some people said that i should listen more in the kpop industry but sorry to said i don't like it..the only kpop artist i love is BTS..full stop...

I only LOVE BTS because of the GENIUS LEADER HE RULE THE GAME IN MUSIC INDUSTRY, BTS, members are only my inspiration in life, their music, performance, personality, positivity vibes etc....I DON'T LIKE KPOP.period....you're right Boracity Magazine kpop is more on visual, you nailed it,well done....keep sharing this video channel.

I Was Listening To Country Music Before, And I Still Listen To It. BTS Is My Heart Beat. Like I've Been Waiting For Them. 💜

I think a lot of people got dragged on by Blood Sweat & Tears but I’m curious if anyone did it in reverse? Like because i predominantly like rock/metal music, I didn’t think I’d be interested, so I watched their interviews as well as Run BTS before I really got into their music catalog. I found it much easier to distinguish them by their personalities through that and I think that really helped in getting me to appreciate the effort and hard work they put into their writing and production. But it’s definitely largely thanks to the fact that their so genuinely humble and thankful for ARMY and their willingness to share so much of themselves with the world that drags people in. I honestly think they could be the key to killing racism because one of the BIG things I notice people say, especially going behind the scenes is “these guys are just dudes” they goof around & have deep thoughts, dreams, fears - it’s a common ground, especially given that celebrities are often put on a pedestal they don’t really deserve to be on. BTS just did it differently to not just the kpop industry, but to the industry in general. I’ve never been interested enough or invested enough to care about award shows and that other nonsense but here I am with accounts on Billboard, MAMA etc, voting everyday because they are the first music group I’ve ever known to deserve it to this extent. Additionally, I only listen to BTS. I am going to eventually delve into other HYBE artists but I don’t think I’ll go beyond that. I knew about BTS for about 2 years before diving in and it’s largely because I had awareness of how a lot kpop idols get treated. I knew there was abuse, dangerous dieting and other horrible instances that essentially kids had to endure in order to follow their dreams and I did not want to give money or attention to an industry that hurt their artists. I saw that BH nurtured our boys, gave them autonomy - I was more inclined to listen

I became an ARMY after Blood Sweat & Tears, I have no idea how it got on my feed cause I don't listen to K-Pop, but I think it was the literary allusions and art in the video. And only after listening to their earlier work did I realize that someone on Livejournal tried to get me to listen to K-Pop and I said it wasn't for me. Lol. Not only did I skip K-Pop, but I skipped BTS years earlier XD

They make some valid points, but I disagree. There are many extremely talented and unique Kpop groups out there with very diverse music and different genres, meaningful and relatable lyrics and a great stage presence and live performances as well and each of them trained very hard for many years to get where they are now, but I won't deny that BTS are great artists at all. For meaningfull lyrics and beautiful story lines for example there's TXT (Tomorrow x Together). They have not only really talented members and diverse music, but also meaningful lyrics and beautiful story lines in my opinion such as with songs like 0x1=Lovsesong, Loser = Lover, Run Away, Frost, Can't You See Me?, Opening Sequence, Farewell Neverland, Puma, We Lost the Summer, Nap of a Star, Our Summer, Eternally, and many more. There's also Ateez, Oneus, Seventeen, Stray Kids, WayV (Chinese subunit of NCT) and the B-Sides for Monsta X, NCT 127, NCT Dream, EXO and Got7 to name a few. In terms of vocalists there's EXO, Shinee, BTOB, Seventeen, NCT, Ateez and Oneus and for rap Monsta X, Stray Kids, Big Bang, Ateez and NCT. As for groups and idols that write and produce their own music, there's Stray Kids for example who is entirely self produced in terms of music, lyrics and concepts as well as having chosen the members, name and logo with the songs being written by their 3Racha subunit that consists of Bangchan, Changbin and Han. Monsta X has Jooheon, I.M and Hyungwon write lyrics and produce songs and choosing concepts and themes, Soyeon from (G)I-DLE also writes and produces their music and chooses their concepts as well, the same goes for Seventeen where Woozi, S.Coups, Hoshi, Vernon, Mingyu, The8, Seungkwan, Bumzu and several others write and produce their music. Then there's several other Kpop artists that write and produce their their own lines and solo music and concepts as well, such as EXO. TXT also has very meaningful lyrics and stories that a lot of people can relate and connect to, including the members and they too write lyrics and verses and are involved in the production. I wouldn't say that Kpop is only an industry and not about the music or artistry at all. Every single artist and group worked extremely hard for years to get where they are now and did it on their own.

Basically these other ppl want what BTS have… but got angry when majority of the armys didn’t transfer into kpop fans. 😅 These kpop journalists also whining bc they expect armys to behave like typical kpopies. 🤭

I'm not into Kpop. Only BTS.

DNA it was DNA....IT was DNA and Mic Drop!!!

I swear I'm proud to be an ARMY, they're so creative and funny !! I'm not really interested in K-pop, I'm only a BTS stan and I don't understand why it would be an issue ?! BTS is my home, my family, my best friends ! 💜💜💜 If it's disturbing for the other fandoms I don't f*cking care. They should take care more about their fav group instead of trying to take down BTS and ARMY.

I became an Army because of dynamite. Either way being a new army is cool I get to learn so much history.