Indian fans of the South Korean music sensation, BTS, are celebrating the band’s debut as they reach their 10th anniversary. The septet, comprising RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook, have developed a large fan base in India who affectionately refer to themselves as the ARMY. Fans like Shreyansh Ankit and Nausheen Tickoo credit BTS’ music with helping them cope during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The band’s birth anniversary every year has evolved into a ritual for Ankit and his friends who celebrate by flocking to a Korean café and enjoying Korean food. Meanwhile, Tickoo has memorized many BTS songs by heart, including Awake and DNA, and has attended several of their live shows.
Last week, BTS celebrated their 10th anniversary with a two-week celebration called FESTA 2023 in Seoul, the South Korean capital. Indian admirers are also not behind in showing their love for the group, who formed in 2010 under Big Hit Entertainment and released their first single album ‘2 Cool 4 Skool’ on June 12, 2013.
Two of BTS’ members, Jin and J-Hope, are currently on their mandatory military training service, while the rest of the group is on hiatus until 2025. In South Korea, all able-bodied men aged 18-28 are required to serve in the military for about two years. Ankit cautioned that making a comeback might not be easy for BTS, citing other famous South Korean K-pop groups like EXO and SHINee whose enthusiasm waned after returning from military service.
Tickoo, on the other hand, is looking forward to BTS’ best work yet to come. She said, I can’t wait to join them in the next phase of their musical journey, wherever it may take them. As they say, the best is yet to come.
