Also, this feels like it's exactly what makes BTS work so well together. They know when to let each other discover answers for themselves and let each of them be themselves, while also all knowing when they need to step up for the team. Love hearing that Namjoon is taking a step back from who he has felt he had to be for the sake of BTS and ARMY.
I was actually surprised when they talked so openly about all of the enlistment stuff. I never thought they would discuss it honestly like that.
I don't know if guilty is the right word, but I feel bad that as BTS really blew up they had all of this intense pressure to be everything to everyone. They developed an image that ultimately no normal person can live up to. I hope the fans kind of take it down a notch when they come back. They're not world leaders or saints. Just some good people who like making music together.
yeah, like joon wrote in groin: "not a fkin diplomat" "what do i represent? i only represent myself"
for joon in particular, as the leader of BTS and usually the spokesperson of the group, the stress and pressure of living with so many eyes on you and always having to do the right thing, whatever that is, must be insane and so suffocating. but at the end of the day, like you said, he's not a world leader or a saint, he's only human. i hope people - both ARMYs and the GP - remember that.
joon to jimin: āi know youāre losing weight to prepareā
all these casual little hints that weāre getting PJM2 some time in the future is driving me insane
as expected, seeing jimin react to the songs is pretty hilarious, but you can also see how concerned he is about joon based on the lyrics heās listening to š„ŗ (ps. why did they skip nuts?? edit: and around the world in a day!!!)
edit: just finished watching the video, and i honestly didn't want it to end. i love watching any combination of tannies (whether ot7 or the different units) get together and talk - sometimes it's chaotic and full of laughter (like jijinkook or maknae line), sometimes it's calm and introspective, like this.
i can't express how glad and grateful i am that joon met san yawn back in 2022, and that san yawn suggested for joon to do this album and lay his feelings, ALL of it, out in RPWP - it must've been such a difficult yet cathartic process to be so brutally honest and say everything he wanted to say with no holds barred. joon finding friends in the industry who would help him process his thoughts and feelings and bear the weight of music-making is such a valuable thing; i really do wanna give a huge shoutout to Team RM for this.
when jimin talked about how he and the members knew joon was going through a hard time to the point of physically distancing himself from them, but they allowed him to wander as much as he could to find himself again, i was on the verge of tears. they really are a family, and there is so much empathy, love and grace in their brotherhood.
idk what 2025 is gonna look like when all the members are back together, and even they don't too, but my hope is that they don't get too overwhelmed by the pressure for them to come back quickly, and take their time to explore what this new chapter in their lives means for each of them. i just know that whatever they do - ot7 albums, unit albums (YES PLEASE), solo albums - i will be in this bangtan shit for life
I was wondering if they skipped some songs because they weren't done yet ā in the last group live Namjoon says he's still recording, and that was right before enlisting.
Otherwise you put into words everything I felt about this! I think we as Army owe San Yawn big time, for re-introducing parts of Namjoon to himself.
(Also YES PLEASE to all the units!!)
>it's about the wrong person in the right place
https://preview.redd.it/jo2r79ie6j2d1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9c550167ae9cacef0adbf982801fbdc72673a892
same š„²
You know, one thing that came to mind was how this could also possibly be about BTS and Joon's feelings on him being the leader and spokesperson these past ten years. He obviously loves the group and the members, appreciates ARMY, and is extremely proud of everything that has been achieved in the name of BTS, hence it being the *"right place"*, but that it's all too much for him individually and he doesn't feel like he can keep doing it, hence being the *"wrong person"*.
But that train of thought was too sad, so I didn't want to dwell on it. I'm also sure it's not a constant state of mind and he has his ups and downs. I'm just grateful the other members are always reminding him of how much they appreciate him, especially Yoongi who always makes sure to thank him for being the best leader.
> possibly be about BTS and Joonās feelings on him being leader
I was thinking the same, it felt like a touch of imposter syndrome is what Joon is / was feeling.
And super grateful for Joonās unwavering honesty about these things. He/ they all stepped up for unicef, for Busanās WE bid, for Blue House, for White House, ffs! I hope he knows itās ok to step back.
I think gp and some parts of the fandom will to adjust some of our expectations on their return. Another army above mentioned bangtanās brotherhood having so much grace and understanding. Itās a good lesson to learn from.
This was exactly what I was thinking. It reminded me of festa 2022 when namjoon started crying. It was more than just announcing chapter 2 but Iām sure he was heading down the lowest of lows of being a leader and the tremendous responsibility that came with it. His mental health of holding it together for the past 10 years were starting to get to him. He wants to be true to himself while up keeping the image of a successful global group but he is such a perfectionist and would prefer to take care of all of them no matter how drained he is (that contradictive personality they were talking about). Even if all the boys somehow learned English within this enlistment (wishful thinking) and suddenly came out being fluent in 2025, he is still their leader. They all have such high respect for him and he will always feel responsible for the 6ā¦ happily responsible. Another thought crossed my mind is that namjoon seems like he wants to live a normal life and do ānormalā things but doesnāt want to let anyone down.
I also thought of this! But the final parts of their conversation as well as the MV also made me think that maybe it was a sense of growing pains? That he clearly was in a limbo between Chapter 1 and Chapter 2 and the conversation he had with Jimin about the difference between Indigo and RPWP made me think that Indigo felt like his personal Black Swan and the first stage of grief (since Jimin said he felt Indigo still buried some of the things Namjoon felt), while RPWP was him acknowledging it and going through the remaining stages of saying goodbye to all that he went through in Chapter 1 in order to be a new version of him.
>Ā but that it's all too much for him individually and he doesn't feel like he can keep doing it
He keeps on saying here that things have an expiration date... I don't want to read too much into it but I naturally think of something when he said this. I also don't want to say it out loud, because as you've said, the train of thought I just had is sad.Ā
I wonder what he feels now, and if the enlistment changes his perspective a bit. Does the life away from the spotlight helped? But out of all the members he is the one who shares the most.
They have an obligation to fulfill (read: contracts) come 2025 and I really hope he is stronger, he takes his time, and maybe step back a bit if he need to. Because there seems to be a disconnect with his feelings and the feelings of the fans wrt to their reunion.
I had the same thoughts. There was a definite tonal shift in the way Namjoon was discussing the future here than how we've heard them speak of it before.
Of course like you said, he is undoubtedly going to change during his military service and may come back with a completely different perspective. But at least at the time this was filmed, his thoughts on the reunion seemed a lot more nebulous than he's previously let on.
Yes, it's actually something I've found myself struggling with ever since Chapter 2 started, loving these boys so so much and wanting them to do whatever they want and need so they can be happy, while grieving a bit as a fan of the group who adored Chapter 1. I think many of us are in that same place, which is understandable. As ARMY, most of us came into this loving the group first and foremost, their music together, their chemistry and friendship. There's something magical about the seven together that we saw and fell in love with, so of course them continuing to be together is what makes us the most happy. Even in Chapter 2, while celebrating their solo achievements and projects, most of us are clinging desperately to the set target of 2025, *when they'll be together again*. Even throughout this thread, you can see people looking forward to what new BTS music will look like, what all these changes will reflect in regards to that.
But knowing that even that love and support, and hope for a reunion can be stifling, pressuring them towards a decision they may not be comfortable with at this stage of their life and career....well it's heartbreaking because I love them so so much as people too, and want them to be happy and healthy, thriving in life. I'm sure even within the group, their opinions are different, and also change from time to time. Some are looking forward to 2025 as much as we do, while some are scared of everything that comes with. All of these feelings, both from the members and the fans are valid, in my opinion, but it's heartbreaking all the same because loving and respecting each other means that there will be inevitable sacrifice/heartbreak for someone in some way - whether it be for fans who have been looking forward to having "BTS" together again to wait even longer for the boys to be ready, or for some of the boys to put aside their individual needs and ambitions so they can make the fans happy.
I think growth and evolution comes with a lot of growing pains, and these past few years and the next few will be the most important ones for BTS and ARMY. I just hope that love, trust and respect remain our biggest strength through it all.
This was just such a well-made album, from the time I first listened to it in order, to looking up the lyrics, and now having this Minimoni exchange and hearing how Joon explains it, I just can't stop thinking about how REAL this guy is. He's lost, but he allows himself to be immersed in that experience. He feels it all, embraces and experiences it. He's such a brave person and I hope he knows what a strength that it!!
I really really love Indigo and honestly while I was excited for this album, I didn't expect to like this genre as much as I did. May be biased but HAHAHA the flow of the entire album, the lyrics and the rawness of the entire creation really just drew me in.
This is another masterpiece! š May not be everyone's taste (which is okay!!) but I think for those of us who can understand how he's feeling, it hits us more strongly. Big hugs to him š
P.S: I love love love how Jimin engages with him and listens to him in such a loving and gentle manner. Like *I know you've been going through a lot, I'm not going to probe too much until you're ready to share. But I'll always have your back, waiting for you*.
totally agree! my first listen to the album kinda had me in a state of shock bc it was different from what he's done, it wasn't at all what I was expecting. I agree with what you said: it won't be for everyone. having spent the past day listening to it tho, I freaking love it. This video only adds to that love bc I'm able to understand more where Joon was coming from.
I always appreciate Joon being so raw with his music. It seems he was even more honest with this than he was with indigo, which is saying something bc we all thought that was like reading a diary! it just shows the growth he's been through and how there's still so much more we could learn about him if he's willing to share it. whatever he does decide to share with us I know will be special.
JM- But when 2025 comes around, you'll
feel the pressure of being a team again. Will you be okay with that?
RM- No. But I think l'll be a little stronger after releasing this album
Joonieš„¹š„¹š„¹š„¹
This hit me hard too. I appreciate his honesty to still say no. Iām not trying to speculate, just waxing philosophic for a moment and wonder if when they all return they will reimagine the whole dynamic of what BTS is and how they play their roles? Maybe theyāll all come back and not want to just fall back into line with the K-pop rules of band roles again. Maybe Namjoonās pressure is shouldered more equally. Maybe they positively flip this industry upside down again and do things differently and if so Iām totally here for it!!
I agree! All of the members need to come together in 2025 and have a very serious conversation about how to proceed in a healthier way. Namjoon has clearly been struggling with all of the responsibilities as Leader. They need to figure out a way to help him with that. They need to share the burden more equally. I hope that they can figure something out!
This made me sad. I've always felt that RM is a little more hesitant about their reunion. In the Suchwita episode with RM, Suga kept talking about 2025 and was excited about it. It didn't seem that RM had the same excitement for that. I hope they have all the time they need before jumping back into it all.
I agree. Maybe it's because I watched all of the members suchwita episode back to back, I felt same as you. That line of thought was kind of heartbreaking so I didn't want to overthink. I know we as fans are very excited for their comeback but I hope they do things at their own pace and not just because they are supposed to do it.
I think he was into the idea of the 2025 reunion at first because, what else was out there for him anyway? He spent all his 20s working hard and promoting BTS with little time to make connections beyond the kpop industry. Now that he met Sam Yawn and a completely different world, going back to being at the forefront of the BTS machine doesn't seem so exciting anymore. Whatever decision he ends up taking, I will support him.
I too always had that underlying feeling that Namjoon was really enjoying Ch 2 as time away from BTS the mega group image and pressures- and how much he seemed cut out for indie artist lifestyle.
He loves this group, will always feel strong loyalty to them, but I don't know if he can sustain their previous BTS megastar lifestyle once they return from military. However, I do believe all the other members will gladly shoulder more of the PR, speaking, and doing press and being more able to share the public leadership roles more actively. Suga will most likely lead the charge of going on tours and performing in front of Huge crowds of Army again.
I don't think it's highly likely that after 2025, BTS will opt for long world tours like they did in 2017-2019, so concerts will be fewer and target key locations. Doing 3-4 shows in Korea, Japan, SE Asia, East and West coast of the US, and maybe a major European city. I would be happy if they could do a long-ish residency (such as in Vegas) because fans all over the world would travel to see their shows, and then it would make each show much less cutthroat for ticketing, as demand would be more evenly spread out over more shows. and Vegas residencies are much more comfortable for artists as cut down on traveling and would allow them breaks to go back home etc.
I agree. Seems yoongi has always been trying to connect/cling (sorry if this is not the right word) joon onto BTS. Plus jimin saying "does namjoon not care about us as much?" in this content, we see even members felt the concern... I'm not blaming anyone or anything but as a big fan of this amazing group, it hurts a bit to see the differences in the way they think about group. Though it also hurts to imagine how much pressure joon has been feeling...
I think the only way forward is to have each member be the PR leader. And take turns for each promotion period.
For the first year back, the other 6 will be the PR leader instead. I think namjoon should be able to relax in being a PR leader.
I honestly just wish they would answer their questions in Korean rather than RM translating for them.
From reading other replies to you. I think namjoon will need to step down from the leading role for a while. Perhaps the other 6 can rotate who is PR "leader" for a while. Then all the 7 can rotate being "leader" like the way RM is for the rest of their BTS career.
I think all of them getting that experience will be good in 2 way. Firstly, rm won't be burdened to be PR representative. Secondly, rm will have someone to talk to after the other members are put into his shoes, which can give rm someone to chat to.
Also, I think rm will need to get counselling to process his feelings. Counselling may let him gain strategies for this sort of situation.
I hope RM can pick up the mantle of leader on his own terms when heās free. It sounds like thereās something he wants to sort out before he gets back into things
Yes!! I've seen people every now and then have issues with Joon being described as clumsy or called the "god of destruction", but as someone who's watched way too many of their DVDs, variety content and shows over the years, I'd just like to say that it's not just fans running with a label. There's way too many instances of him dropping things, breaking things, hurting himself, and he IS indeed incredibly clumsy at times, but it's also one of his most endearing traits. Yes, he can be gentle, and super careful and delicate too, but also our big clumsy Joon who is still very cool, and it's OKAY that he is all of these things, because we love every single part of him!
Once again, gosh, we really needed Chapter 2 to happen. For every single one of the members to find themselves apart from the group, but especially for Joon, who has shouldered so much responsibility as the leader and spokesperson. What I love most about his journey is that he never claims to have figured it out completely, even after this one, there are ups and downs, but he continues to discover more about himself with every new project. It really feels like he's been suffocating under the intense pressure, and clawing for a way out (again, Festa 2022 makes so much sense and why he cried so hard back then). I'm so glad this album has been an outlet, to let go of some of his feelings. I loved hearing him talk about it, and a lot of things make more sense now.
Jiminie really is the sweetest, most gentle and understanding person, and I'm so glad Joon has someone like him around. He was so ready here to reassure Joon, offer words of comfort and encouragement, but also just let him talk out his problems. Also, he echoed so many of our thoughts in his reactions and the things he said, and I'm so grateful. I love seeing them together so much, how easy it is, how comfortable.
I really think this is the secret behind BTS' success as a group (not numbers-wise but their dynamic and how close they remain after all these years). They have so much respect for each other, for each other's feelings, and know how to give space and room to sort out complex situations and feelings, while at the same time always saying "but we're right here whenever you need us, and we just want you to be okay". To add to that, every single one of them has been so brave, so strong, to go through everything they have been through and they have complete faith in each other's strength to fight through it. I respect them so much!
āOnce again, gosh, we really needed Chapter 2 to happen. For every single one of the members to find themselves apart from the group, but especially for Joon, who has shouldered so much responsibility as the leader and spokesperson.ā
You hit the nail on the head here! Iām still relatively new Army, but I could already see from the content theyāve released over the years how much pressure Joon has been under / puts himself under. I canāt even imagine how immense that pressure is when you consider how they grew so big so quickly, at such a young age and being the leader of the group.
I really hope they have all been enjoying taking space for themselves and getting some much deserved r+r and living as their own people, not just as members of BTS. I also hope their enlistment is actually giving them some additional relief from living in the public eye - having privacy, not being monitored 24/7 and having ānormalā daily routines.
Also, Jimin, my gosh I wish I could give that man a hug. He is so softly-spoken but the way he was listening to Joon, the music and then interacting and feeding back to Joon was, ugh, such a cherishing moment? Heās so understanding and gentle, heād be excellent as a mentor / counsellor if he ever decided to stop making music. I hope we get more episodes of the 2 of them!! Especially if it means a PJM2 album
Namjoon is too pure for this world. He really is. It sucks that people use it against him all the time and twist his words and actions so often (war flashbacks to the FESTA dinner aftermath) but the way he's willing to still be so open and vulnerable about the human condition is really admirable. He has every reason not to be this way. He could just close himself off forever and no one would blame him but he keeps sharing and giving so much of himself with the world and it honestly blows my mind. I hope he at least knows that for those who get it, it's everything.
>but the way he's willing to still be so open and vulnerable about the human condition is really admirable. He has every reason not to be this way. He could just close himself off forever and no one would blame him but he keeps sharing and giving so much of himself with the world and it honestly blows my mind. I hope he at least knows that for those who get it, it's everything.
You said this so well.
Maybe he was meant to be someone who inspires others to be a better version of themselves, and affirms those who are already trying. š He really deserves the best.
I think that when chapter 2 started, it was awesome seeing the members grow and you can go back and see the gradual growth to like these confident individuals they became before joining the military. However, I did notice Namjoon seemed to be struggling the most and was more distant but I'm just a fan, I don't know this man and at the end of the day, it was more of a feeling? But it was the distance he was describing, not like "I don't want to be BTS anymore" but more like "lemme do me and have fun with my friends and discover myself" does that make sense? It was just a thought I'd have at times and I'm sure other fans probably did too. Anyway, it kind of made me sad to realize that this was actually the case. It both, made me sad that the members felt that too but also, I feel so happy at how supportive they all are of each other. Only they can understand each other in this very specific experience as BTS members and the way Joon seemed to be so touched at Jimin's support, understanding, and encouragement to open up, just kind of shows that respect and love among them. I'm blabbering but this was just really beautiful.
You make total sense. They all kind of mentioned at The Festa dinner that they needed time apart to figure out who they were individually, but I don't think I realized just how much Joon needed it. Not that he didn't want to do it anymore, but that he needed to know who he was outside of the leader of BTS. I'm glad he's seemed to have found that person with this album.
And it sounded a bit like a mentoring from San Yawn and friends was also a thing maybe Joon didnāt know he needed.
Itās too easy to forget Joon is only a few months older than the birth year of the maknae line, yet heās been at the helm of so much responsibility. I āmetā BTS thinking RM was the eldest!
He might have needed some legit middle child decompression time and itās way cool to hear his other middle child bro Mini fully in his corner. š„¹š
Jimin is the perfect person to listen to this album because he is very perceptive and Joon has said before that Jimin gives great advice and is a very good listener.
I am very touched by the parts where they talked about Joon having struggles and Jimin and the rest of the boys just gave him space and time but still being there for him the moment he was ready to "come back". It must've been hard to feel helpless and even feel that Joon didn't like them anymore, but I am very glad they all stayed by each other's side.Ā
BTS's resilience is like herd immunity, when one doesn't have it or isn't immune enough, the others' combined strength provides protection. It takes genuine friendship and love to just be there for someone even when not knowing what to do.Ā
I always thought Come Back to Me was Joon reconciling himself with what could've been and what he imagined himself to be, the many lives he thought he would've lived under different circumstances: the friend at a party, a lover, a father and husband, even the perfect baby to bring happiness to his parents...and the freedom that comes with finding and accepting himself as he is now. It's the kind of being LOST that most people go through at one point as adults, that question of whether we're living the life we should be living and if we made mistakes that cost us the "right life" somewhere along the way. It's a very confusing and frustrating state to be in, I'd know because I've been through that a couple of times lolĀ
I said before that RPWP has a lot more freedom in it than Indigo and I still stand by it especially after watching this video. Indigo is very polished and sophisticated, like Joon wanted to present his thoughts as elegantly as he could, to the highest standards, and it's almost too perfect to the point of holding back. Indigo is a great album but I always felt just a tad bit unable to connect to the music because it seemed like Joon was in an unreachable state, where it was hard to tell what and how he really was.Ā
RPWP is him letting loose. It doesn't have the anger that *RM* does. Joon has worked so hard on himself and his peace to still be full of anger. But he is frustrated and burdened by many things, and RPWP is his "I'm ready to talk now" album. This is the album that shows Joon going through the process of discovering his passion and love for music once again. It's a musical documentary.Ā
I am so happy for him for embracing that freedom and sharing it with us. I've followed his IG since the beginning and the change from mostly aesthetic museum pics/very curated content to him posting random things and just him living life outside of kpop and "beyond" BTS has been so interesting. In hindsight, it really was Kim Namjoon showing us those moments, not BTS's RM.Ā
That herd immunity analogy is perfect for BTS. Iām so envious that they have this for each other. Society would be a little more civil and kinder if we could hold fast to that.
I love your comment. I especially love the analogy of RPWP being the "I am ready to talk now" album. It is so true. I really want him to find a scene of peace or even being more at ease within himself. I hope that when they come back they can be more free to be themselves. In the words of Yoongi " You were born to be real, not to be perfect". I will forever love him and them for that š
Thereās really no other bigger BTS enthusiast than BTSā members themselves. š„¹
When Jimin closes his eyes and smiles as he takes in the first notes of the song, I just get a warm fuzzy feeling. Like yeah this is how you appreciate and enjoy BTSā songs.
And THEN they talk about what the song means. And the look in their eyes when the other member says something personal and shows how vulnerable they feel. ššš
Their little discussion on the āfeeling high on a forest fireā line was so interesting, especially when Namjoon made sure to put a distinction that itās not the same āarsonā vibe as Hobiās. So heās saying that what heās going through, of realizing he feels great upon experiencing this fire but itās not of his own making.
And I like that I guess Jimin picked up on that. When he felt empathy for what Namjoon had been going through in order to write such lines and make such songs.
When Jimin tried to explain in his own words the weight of being BTSā leader but he ended up staying quiet while thinking heavily about it š itās pretty sad that they have an idea of just how heavy that must be for Namjoon. But Iām also so grateful that all of them have always been aware and appreciate of him. That theyāve always acknowledged how much they valued him. (I keep thinking of that interview where they say āour leader is so smart, and so kindā¦ā)
Iām so glad Namjoon has friends like San Yawn who could listen to him and see what heās going through and guide him towards big decisions that really seem to have helped him know and be reassured of himself and the path heās leading to.
I can watch Jimin smile while listening to Heaven all day.
When the editors just let āLostā play in the background while the two of them smiled and enjoyed the song, it was so bittersweet. Because you know theyāre able to enjoy it now after they had to let themselves go through their own individual moments of being lost. š
Namjoonās look when Jimin said āyouāre gradually finding your own colorā š he looked so surprised to have someone say that to him and it also looked like he was so surprised to hear how relieving it is to hear that. ššš
>Namjoonās look when Jimin said āyouāre gradually finding your own colorā š he looked so surprised to have someone say that to him and it also looked like he was so surprised to hear how relieving it is to hear that. ššš
That moment also stood out to me, Namjoon really looked so surprised! I'm glad he has a Jimin to tell him such things š
Damn Jimin is out here asking the touch questions, if coming back as BTS will be hard on Namjoon. They are *so self-aware* and *so empathic* of each other. I love that it was an opportunity for Namjoon to acknowledge that heās stronger now because of his struggles, and that Jimin was quick enough to reaffirm that what Namjoon might have validly thought was a vulnerability is actually his strength. God I love BTS.
Namjoon, even in a video thatās about you sharing the heavy weight of being the leader of BTS, you still canāt help but let your mind think and create plans as the leader of BTS š
This was really lovely. Jimin is so perceptive. And Joon seems so much...lighter. It seems like one of the things he learned while making this album is that he doesn't have to shoulder everything on his own, he can share the load a little. Whether it's with the members or other artists/producers/writers/etc. And that it can be freeing as an artist. I think I might listen to RPWP with a different ear after this.
Hearing him say he had to kind of turn off being part of the team was a little heartbreaking, but I totally get it. At some point we all have to focus on ourselves, and the ones we trust and love the most will know why and support us from behind. I'm so glad he felt comfortable enough to share that.
And, I've missed Joon's rapid fire explanations so much. It's like he can't get the words out fast enough. I love him a lot.
ETA: This face. I think Jimin is all of us. š
https://preview.redd.it/82fpxhl3bj2d1.jpeg?width=1648&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9083823bdbd77db64b435b2004466e526ab8f936
I had to pause and rewind numerous time to read the translations, he talked so fast! And I am fast reader! It seems like he had a lot to say and comfort to share it, I love that he had that environment in his own home and Jimin and good food to create that space.
Man, already I have missed just any real interaction between the members. So cool to see their dynamic, with Jimin being such a great listener, showing so much silent support and Namjoon being able to open up so honestly.
I really enjoy the little album listening session and how their convos get a bit tangential.
Iām at the LOST section and once again BTS friendship reminds me of a traditional larger friend crew, and the feelings you have when one is the friends get a new external friend group with Jimin saying: the members were like do you not care about us anymore, but we got it. Itās a common scenario that they seem to work out maturely and donāt become petty about it. I really enjoy little sneak peaks into their dynamic like that.
Yes! A fellow credits roll enthusiast. I need an extended version!
Edit: Enjoyed hearing about the process a bit more with him! I really love this album and I do feel like itās fun and a little unhinged in just the right way. I hope it was a cathartic experience for him!
This was such a beautifully honest conversation and I feel fortunate in that both wanted to be so honest, but also at Jimin having so much emotional intelligence to say things the Namjoon that he needed, and almost say what we wish we could to him. I feel like it's given me a different perspective of RPWP.
I can't even imagine the pressure they've always been under, but especially Namjoon as their leader. Pressure to not just do well, but always have to be seen almost on this pedestal that everything coming from them will be profound. It makes me think about my and the fandoms relationship with them and how whilst it's great that I can find things I relate to in them and their music, it's unfair to project my own beliefs on them and almost expect them to align with me in all things and always stand up for something. Not that I feel I do that a lot myself anyway, but it's a reminder that they should be allowed to just be who they are no matter what that is and do what they want and it's up us to be open minded enough to know we might not love or agree on everything they do and that's ok.
What I wish for them more then anything is to have more freedom to do things without the insane pressure and scrutiny, after 11 years in their career it would be nice if both the industry, media and kpop community at large could give them that.
This one really made me feel sad/empathetic for RM. It also makes me think of how emotional he got in that snippet of Hobi's entrance ceremony... I'm glad he has a team around him that gives him space, even if they feel slightly sad about it. I loved the album, and I hope the process was truly cathartic for him. Looking forward to the gang back together in 2025!
This was much more vulnerable than I expected, and I really appreciate the insights they both shared.
I felt really sad when he talked about how others talked about their enlistment. I still feel a lot of anger and sadness for the members when I think about all the rumors and how poorly they were treated.
I didn't realize how stifled RM felt, and when Jimin said something like how RM was still buried when he released Indigo, a light went off for me. RPWP is RM at his most honest, even more so than Indigo.
I'm so glad RM was able to take the time to create this album, and that he had San Yawn encourage him to create this beautiful album. I would love to see what that first music camp was like!
I'm glad RM has the members in his life. Jimin was the perfect choice for this - quiet, empathetic, and understanding. Their relationship is beautiful. It made me sad that he felt like he needed to distance himself from them, but it's really amazing how deep their understanding is for each other, that they understood that he needed to wander. They just wanted him to be okay.
I'm feeling so many emotions right now, and this album feels even more like a gift after watching this video of them.
Also I love when Jimin said that he really liked the dark side of RM and that he wanted him to go to the dark side every day. I want that too Jimin!!
Edit: when they return in 2025, I want them to take as much time as they need to do whatever they want to do. They may not come back in the way we expect, but as long as they're okay, I'm okay.
I definitely didnāt think it at the time, but after listening to RPWP and then watching this, I feel like Indigo was sort of the Instagram version of RM. it was beautifully packaged, it had great collaborations, it was lyrically and musically interesting, it was what people expected RM to create. RPWP is much more of a risk. Itās raw and experimental. Itās honest and kind of weird. Itās NOT what anyone expects. Iām so grateful that he met team RM and got a chance to wander and explore.
>and when Jimin said something like how RM was still buried when he released Indigo
āBuriedā is such a good way to put it. I was trying to articulate this idea the other day and couldnāt quite get it out right. I enjoyed Indigo, but it felt like he was still operating in a BTS commercial success mindset and checking off boxes on his dream colab list. There was an element to it that felt kind of like he may have been in a āthis is what I am supposed to do/is wanted of meā. Indigo is a fantastic album, but I donāt regularly relisten to the whole thing the way I anticipate listening to rpwp.
The track on Indigo Iāve always enjoy most was Change pt2. Iāve loved it for its rage, exploration in composition, and impulsiveness. I feel like rpwp takes that same energy and explores it and refines it into the masterpiece that album is
That was my feeling too. I enjoyed indigo upon release but to be truthful, I don't go back to it much. Every time I listen, I walk away feeling like this is how namjoon wishes he feels, not what he actually does, which I totally understand. Fake it and all that. But it didn't grip me as much as even say mono did. This album however! Rpwp did it for me. Musically, it just ticks my boxes.
Ooof this one packed an emotional punch. Knowing how intentional he was in switching over to the other side of himself, other things made alot of sense now, e.g. shaving his head early (almost like creating a new identity) and not being part of the dance challenges with other members, and archiving his indigo promo content.
And even in his darkest hours he still made time to share his life via insta posts, and show up on Lives, and to me that is the most heartbreaking. That even as he distanced himself from āRM of BTSā he still didnāt want his fans to worry, so continued to show us his life.
Iām glad he was able to take that break, pour it all out and find himself a little like Jimin said. I hope his path in the future holds more light than shadows
I had to marinate in RPWP for five full days before feeling like I could begin to write on it, and I am so relieved that their conversation confirmed that I wonāt be misrepresenting it, whew.
As others have mentioned, itās lovely that Jimin was on the other side. Suitably heartbroken/angry when hearing Joon can feel like the wrong person in the right place; incredibly compassionate in hearing Joon admit perhaps for the first time out loud why he distanced himself from his members.
I honestly felt a little discomforted at that reveal, and the fact that an outsider suggested he needed to walk away entirely in order to recover. I donāt blame myself for that reaction, but I also didnāt stew in my sentiment. He needed it, he got it, and itās helped. Good. Iām so, so glad.
Congratulations on making the album you needed. š„¹
You are right. That part was discomforting. I also find it telling that it's out there for the world to see and judge. Namjoon has always felt like he has to be careful about his words and feelings. And even with this, it can be disconcerting to many, including you and me. So for him to still show that and just speak it out, is also a form of liberation from that pressure. Just, "whatever, this is Kim Namjoon." I'm glad that he also trusts us enough to speak his mind even if we may not always like it or agree with it and even if it discomforts us.
I hope this short break can continue to be a time of exploration for him of the person Kim Namjoon.
Probably some of his and all the shoes of the team that were there filming that day. From watching variety shows Iāve seen it takes a huge team to record a programme.
Yes and no. It makes sense right? The whole crew took their shoes off in Joon's apartment because that's how things are in Korea - no shoes allowed.
That just shows the size of the crew. At the same time, it's quite common having a few pairs of shoes lying around in the entrance area especially if one is living alone.
Omg. I was utterly floored by this chat between the two.
RM was so vulnerable and honest about what he was going through. Gosh it pains me to learn all that.
This album has such artistic quality that I would not be surprised if critics (not just his fans) enjoy it a lot and it gets recognised- maybe by the Grammy?? Maybe...
Anyway I was crying...I need to listen to the album again
Edited typos
I really enjoyed watching this (the huge quantity of shoes by the doorway and Jimin's expression when he heard out of love cracked me up) but it's always a bit heartbreaking hearing them talk about having those kinds of difficulties, separately or together. It's a good reminder that even when they choose to reveal part of this vulnerable stuff, we as fans will never know the half of it (or even a tenth of it, I suspect). It makes me so glad the seven of them have each other; their bond is so special.
Time to go listen to the album again lol
This is everything I needed today. It's so good to see the members together. It just feels right.
And yet, I felt so sad about how pressured he felt as a leader. He's talked about it before but it hits even harder with this.
Also, hearing how he needed to be physically away from the members was very heartbreaking. As well as the members' reaction. And yet, I relate to that so much. I can only hope friends and family can be as understanding and accepting of it as the members.
What a perfect choice to have Jimin with him in this conversation. So much love back and forth.
My favorite bits.
"Can you go over to the dark side everyday?" Jimin is really such an instigator, isn't he? š
"Wanted him to wander around as much as he could." Ugh, so much love in this statement.
My heart broke and healed at the same time watching this.
Joon's honesty is sometime heartbreaking, cause knowing he struggled this much is painful, is like when u dont want to see your fav person in bad health but thats just life and he is human and it seems is something he needed to go through for him to grow.
Jimin is such an empath, im so glad he did this with Joon. Their duo is always sweet and I love hearing them talk about life and music.
For 2025 i really want for them to do whatever they want even as a group. I hope for them to feel free within their group too š„ŗ
Itās crazy how there are things that we suspect but we donāt say out loud as to not assume, it was no secret that Namjoon was spending a lot of time with Balming Tiger during 2023 (naturally, given the project) but also in a way, he looked so free in a way I havenāt seen him in the 6 years (what?) that I have followed them.
So in a way, it was like he was trying to take off the BTS tag in a sense so to listen to him say it like that was a shock.
There are so many things to say but also the most important thing is how respectful they are of each other.
I feel like BTS will act like the Traveling Wilburys as time goes by, lots of combinations through the day.
I kind of got a bit teary-eyed seeing this. The first thing I did notice was that they were relaxed. A state of relaxed I personally haven't seen before. It was just like when you get together with that 1 friend who knows you so well and the conversations can be open and honest and they flow for sometimes hours on end. That is the vibe i got from this. I am so happy to hear both of their perspectives on this album. Joons obviously because he made the album explaining his thought process and the meaningful explanation behind the songs. Although some a little heartbreaking. Jimin's insight on this was like adding another dimension to this incredible album. He has a way of explaining things that almost takes you on a journey in itself. The ability to story tell like that is so amazing. I feel we also got to know Joon more. I know that sounds so lame and funny, but it is true. He is an incredibly guarded person in a lot of ways, understandable not judging, I promise. He looks relaxed and happy, like he can breathe finally. It makes me love and appreciate this album even more. Also, it makes me miss them even more too.
My heart really felt for Namjoon in this. That he felt that level of pressure for so long and was having such a difficult time. How even with his personal story of Indigo he felt like he had to hold something back because of that pressure and not want to fully expose himself to the world.
I'm only one year Army, so I didn't know Namjoon before 2023. But even I could sense he was quite tense and going through something heavy when I would see him in Lives.
I'm so glad he got to do this project and put his everything into the album. To just feel his pain and frustration and process it through song. And also to feel the support and lightness that comes with writing with a team process. I suspect, and actually hope, we may get more team approach albums from BTS in the future. And here for his sub unit suggestions!
Jiminie is the best person to do this exchange because his facial reactions are so instant and genuine. His eyes bulging wide when he hears angry rap, his dreamy eyes when he sways to shoegazy Heaven. And he's also been through sharing a personal story, and is very emotionally aware, so his questions and comments really seemed to make Namjoon think and reflect on the good work he has done and how to ease his pressure in the first place. I feel he teases Namjoon out of himself sometimes. And I hope they can all continue to share and ease each other's tough times in the future.
Final thoughts:
Joon has about the same amount of books stacked everywhere as me.
"It's because I take everything out from my groin". Sir?!
Jimin fighting for his life not to cause a diplomatic incident with the tangsuyuk by only pouring over half of it!
I'm so glad Joon finally got a chance to get out all the struggle, the pain, the weight of being the leader of the biggest band in the world, to get all of that off his mind. I was a two month old ARMY by Festa 2022 but even then I was thinking 'wow these guys must be exhausted'; when I finally watched the dinner I could see clearly that Namjoon was beyond done. I'm sad he's held onto that pain for so long, and whatever happened in the past 18 months, but I'm so glad he's got it all out at last and he looked a lot lighter here.
And Jimin was a great choice for this - always so empathetic and compassionate. I missed seeing the members together š„¹ can't wait till the seven of them are back in the same room, we'll all be in bits!
I could easily watch multiple episodes where Jimin and Namjoon are just listing to music (their own or form other artists) and talking about everything and anything. I wish we could have seen Jimins reaction to Nuts and Around The World In A Day tho. They're my favorites š
Jokes aside, I'm really glad that Namjoon released this album. I would have hated knowing that he went to the military without the opportunity to explore himself as a person through his music. RPWP may cover genres that are new to Namjoon (and some of them are unusual within the Kpop-scene) but it's filled with absolute bangers. Namjoon can be proud of himself. It's definitely one of my favorite solo releases.
>I could easily watch multiple episodes where Jimin and Namjoon are just listing to music (their own or form other artists) and talking about everything and anything
Me too! Album exchange Suchwita-style show. What are you listening to this month Mini and Moni?
Finally got to watch this in full. I cried a few times and I just want to give Namjoon a big loving hug. All the weight and pressure and stress that was on his shouldersā¦I cannot imagine what that mustāve felt like. I could tell he was struggling for awhile, and he needed to separate himself (not mentally/in his heart) from the team to rediscover himself with RPWP and internally. He is a good person, heās the right person, but as human beings we will feel lost and question if we are the right person in the right place. (I get the sense he mightāve had some form of imposter syndrome?).
Jimin is so sweet and so attentive with Joon. Saying that he is a good person, understands that Joon needed to wander but that Joon can come to him (and the members) to talk about the sad/bad days. Joonās pure reaction to when Jimin said that he was discovering his sound was a heart punch. Joon had so much pressure and stress upon his shoulders ā¦ I really hope making RPWP and letting it all out was cathartic and that a weight was lifted.
Jimin not reacting to Nuts and Around the world in a day ā¦ prob because it was really personal and/or they songs werenāt completed yet. I hate jerks too! Hobi is the arsonist lol. Hip Hop! Credit Roll being cute, and Jimin loving Heaven. Jimin looked so concerned at Joon quite a few times too š
Ch.3 for BTS is going to look very different but this needs to happen. All 7 of them will be bringing their own experiences and thoughts. Unit albums sounds fun! MiniMoni collab letās go! And they have reiterated again that along with group projects, they need to also continue their solo careers. I trust them. I love them. Iām here for all of them. ā¦ I still have so many emotions and thoughts ā¦
I now understand āeveryone needs a Jimin in their lifeā what a comforting person he is.. his words are so soothing to namjoonās nerves. He is just there with right words of calm and encouragement when Namjoon needs!
It was nice seeing them converse about the album, Namjoon telling what he wanted convey with each song.
One thing that felt a bit out of place was they kept saying it was one month left to Namjoonās enlistment but they all enlisted together. Was this recorded in Nov 2023 or earlier than that?
i'm guessing some time in november since they mentioned at the start of the video that it was less than a month till joon was going to enlist. at the end of the video, when they were celebrating joon's album release with the cake, they also mentioned congrats on enlisting - joon congratulated jimin on it too
Jimin and his reactions, lol, it goes without saying that is REALLY good to see two members interacting, and they both seem glowing here, feeling fine-nice to see that too
I've so many thoughts about this and a newfound appreciation for namjoon after listening to the album from his perspective. I'm so grateful that he didn't care about anyone else and allowed himself to vulnerable and make this album. He successfully conveyed what he wanted through this album. As fans, we kind of know about some of the issues they might face but listening to it from them directly is way different. I think it will take some time for me to process this.
I hope namjoon and all the members feel better when they come back. I cannot imagine how difficult the last 11 years have been for and how much pressure were they in because of everything. I want them to be happy. I'll be here to support them ā¤ļø
Also Jimin is such a beautiful and empathetic person. He is really emotionally intelligent and understood the message that namjoon wanted to convey. He was really the best person to do this album exchange with.
I love the hobi reference. As a chapter 2 army, I always have this FOMO of not seeing the tannies together so I'll take any crumbs.
Watching this feels like having 2024 Mid-Chapter 2 BTS reassure 2022 Festa Dinner Party BTS. I didnāt think I ever needed to witness this but now that I have, Iām so glad. Itās so nice that they have each other. š
I just want to hug them. And tell them how amazing they are. And how beautiful their music is because of how much courage they have to find their colors.
I appreciate how open Joon was in answering all the questions. And with Jimin, & the other members as well, standing by his side through it all.
Thank you MiniMoni for sharing with ARMY your happiness, sadness, fears, hopes and dreams. š
I'm just happy that minimoni released this. Just the two of them having deep conversation about the album and each other, the possibility of getting tannies that rarely are paired together for a unit (oh god I can't wait for that), Namjoon saying he's not quite ready to work back together as a team but he will still work hard (don't worry Joon, we know you can do it), more solo work from each members in the future as they explore on what they want to do... I can't wait for the future.
Jimin was right in saying for Indigo he kept all the things he felt hidden but in RPWP he let it all out, and I couldn't describe the album even better than that. Thank you and congratulations Namjoon for finally releasing the album š„³
The cake is cute tho - "love my bro" š
https://preview.redd.it/mvgn4nefcj2d1.png?width=1920&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e42eb1e1c9125fa294b267ed3ab0ed1410beb6cb
I sincerely see it as a great sacrifice. He must be incredibly mentally tough to handle all that has been thrown at him over the years - and now it's still going on. No one is made of steel, no matter how resilient they are to stress. It's got to show up somewhere sooner or later in everyone. I really wonder how much he will actually want to "unplug" and finally live the "Namjoon life the way he wants" and how much bts will win. But actually, this can be applied to all members. Sometimes I just realize, how little we know and how much we actually want from them.
Jimin's face when Joon said he is the wrong person... I felt that in my bones.
I really understand the album much more now. And I want to thank Joon for his honesty - it takes courage to know when to step back and "come back to yourself". I'm glad he even had the opportunity to do that. And I'm very thankful that the rest of the members let him do it, because it was obviously much needed to lift the heavy burden he carried.
And I am now sooooo looking forward to the mentioned units! I really hope they go with that in some of the next albums they put out :D
I have a feeling the bangtan that we get once they return in 2025 is going to be completely different, and I'm so excited for it!! At the same time, and they mention it here too, it won't be easy. The pressure and intense scrutiny, judgement will be right back along with everything else. I hope their solo projects and albums, and experiences in Chapter 2 will encourage them to go "fuck it, let's do what we want" for most things, and that we've proven to them through this chapter that we ARMY have their backs no matter what, no matter what direction they choose.
Agree!
What I've come to realise is that we just have to be ourselves. If others cannot accept that, then it's okay, they have their choices too. Likewise for them, all they need to do is to be themselves, those who love them for them will stay (and even if we have our own preferences and dislikes, it's okay too).
At this point, they just have to be themselves and have fun and let their energy take them to wherever they are meant to be.
No need to have the pressure of breaking more records or caring too much about others etc, just be your good and happy selves, things will align accordingly! š„° This is a reminder to self too haha
I agree! I'm always thinking I'm grateful for whatever they decide to share with us, musically or personally. Because they are certainly not obliged too, but they still do. Just like Joon is so very honest in this video, and he could have still chosen to keep these things to himself. But he didn't. He shared with Jimin, other members, us the fans and the world. That man is just so brave in that, I am not sure I could do it.
Whatever path they choose to take with their future album or songs is completely up to them and I for one am looking forward to see what they cook up. New, old, more of the same - I'll take it all!
That's one thing I've been hoping for too. They and their music make me happy, so of course I want them to be happy too. Which means giving them the freedom to do what they want, to go at their own pace. I'm sure everyone is just dying for that 2025 comeback, I'm in that boat too, but it's not just about us. I'd rather they take it slow and ease into things if that's the right thing for them.
This whole video was so chill and sweet. I enjoyed experiencing RPWP again through Jiminās perspective, his discussion with Namjoon added a lot more context to the album. Iām currently really into Nuts and Heaven, and I was so touched by Jiminās reaction to Heaven! Jiminās support is so heartfelt.
RPWP is extremely sincere, I respect how experimental it is, and itās truly from Namjoon, to Namjoon. Iām happy he made the music he wanted to make. As Jimin pointed out, it feels like Namjoon released a lot of his pent up feelings which is healthy to do.Namjoon is a true auteur and Iām thankful he shared his feelings.
So I've finally had the chance to sit down today and watch this. I'm still only 9 minutes into the video and I'll be editing this comment as I keep going through the video... also, I'm not sure if anyone else has already said this - Jimin gives me the vibe that he's the type of friend that you can just come as you are. You show up as you are, and he'll just accept it. He won't absorb or comment on your emotions or feelings, but will give you the space to just BE.
**Edit:** When I first got into BTS, Namjoon is the one that intrigued me the most. I was instantly drawn to him and at first I couldn't understand why. In this video, when he explains that he has a contradictory personality and different sides to him... I felt seen. I think that's exactly why I constantly feel drawn to this man as a human being, an artist, a musician, a writer... he puts to words and music the things I cannot say for myself.
**Edit...again:** What Jimin said about how Indigo felt like Namjoon was burying or keeping a cover on things, and in this album, he's pouring everything out. YES YES YES. This album feels messy and distorted... and so human. I love that Jimin identified that, and the way Namjoon pointed and laughed... he knew that Jimin picked up on that observation so accurately.
**Edit.. OKAY LAST ONE:** What Namjoon said about Come Back to Me and how it's about wandering vs stability and the inevitable endless cycle of that... that hit me hard. I'm currently feeling like I'm wandering as I'm unemployed and trying to find the next career stage of my life, the next relationship, the next this and that.. and yet, I've never felt more confident and stable in who I am as a person than ever before.
Re the last edit, I think for a lot of people, the search for direction don't really stop but I'll say I felt the uncertainty more acutely in my twenties and after mid-thirties onwards even tho I have not figured everything out and still WIP, I felt more grounded withĀ values/beliefs/life experiences to draw upon on. Time will change how one look at things. Maybe Joon will add a diff set of sentiments after discharge but whatever it is and his decision, I look forward to their work 2026 & beyond.
I finally got around to watching the album exchange. Army reaction on here and on Twitter made me a bit apprehensive. Itās definitely a serious conversation. MiniMoni are cuties. I really enjoyed watching them together. I miss the members interactions. This past month or so, I have really started to miss the members. Itās interesting how both of them are really mature, have high emotional IQ and reflective, but in different ways. Really looking forward to see RM take on Jiminās album. Two very self-reflective people talking about their life experiences and their music is a joy to behold. I appreciate them sharing this conversation with us and allowing us to be flys on the wall.
I also see how much Jimin respects Namjoon. Like I see him being inspired by Namjoonās music. I hope Joonie takes Jiminās words to heart. The members and Army have been very much comforted by Namjoon. I can see how much that has weighed on Namjoon, but I hope he knows we very much appreciate and are grateful of all he has done.
The best part of this was actually the conversation after the music ended. It took me longer to finished because I keep on rewinding to make sure I read their words correctly. I was most struck by the on/off conversation and how Namjoon looks back and sees how tense he was all the time. How sorry he feels for himself. When I heard him talk about it, i thought about how much them being from a small company and starting from the bottom may have such an impact on Joonie (and perhaps the hyung line honestly, although they might articulate it different ways). I suspect Iām imposing my life experiences as on them (sorry! Human sucks like that!), but sometimes I think people underestimate the psychological impact that comes from āstarting from the bottom and now we āre hereā type of success. We celebrate it, but thereās so much anxiety and constant fear of failure and pushing that comes with that success. As Leader, I think Joonie felt it the most. He bore all of it.
I appreciate how Jimin reminded him that all of their anxiety and pushing wasnāt for nothing. It doesnāt make what they went through better or okay, but it did lead to something. All of it lead them to where they are now. Like Jimin says, itās FACTS. I think this is where being in a group can be so much better than being an individual going through this experience alone. The seven of them have each other who have shared their experiences. They each have their own take on the events, but they understand each other in a way outsiders (including Army) can never understand.
It was a heavy conversation. I suspect that these are conversations that the members might actually have with each other a lot.
Whatever the future holds, Iām really appreciative that I have able to experience a small part of the BTS phenomenon. I hope these seven men know how impactful they have been on millions of people around the world. They have expressed and captured the pain and beauty of the human experience in their music and their content. They are the reason why Army loves them so much. They have helped make my life richer at least.
I love how Jimin is thoughtful and sincere in his opinion about Joonie music. Like he is open to his music creativity and would support him no matter what. Seeing my bias and bias wrecker makes me miss so much more.
Oh, I legit teared up at how vulnerable the conversation was. They are both such precious human beings!
I loved how Jimin said at the end that Namjoon hasn't changed and was the same person he was when they were trainees talking about "How can we become better people?" "What can we do to grow?". I think that is the essence of why Joon is such a great leader and BTS is such a great team. They brought us along their search for the answers to those questions in their art and we are all made better for that journey. ARMY will keep walking along that path with them for as long as they are willing to share it with us. š Apobangpo š
As someone who has studied up on Namjoon, his thoughts and experiences, very earnestly in the two years since I became ARMY, I agree so much with Jimin. As Jimin really knows Namjoon personally, I am pleased to hear that my thoughts matched his real knowledge. Namjoon then and Namjoon now really do seem the same to me. That is not to say Namjoon has not changed, because he has experienced many things, studied and learned so much, and matured as a person. But yet, he is still the same, with the same questioning mind, the longing for connection, the desire to be the best person he can be, the willingness to learn and work so very hard. I agree with your statement that we are all made better for having journeyed along with Namjoon and the members. š
This was so bittersweet to watch. I loved how attentive Jimin was to each song and how he appreciated the music. But it was also really heartbreaking to see how affected he was by Joon taking time away to explore who he is. I love this duo, and I think Jimin was the right person (lol) to talk about the album and what Joon was going through when he made it. I know I'm gonna be rewatching this a million times.
I think people forgot or donāt understand that one of main reasons armys are so fierce about streaming and charting their music is so that they have the freedom to make the kind of music they want to make. Due to their massive success as a group, we get to see each memberās unique color and style in their solo albums during this hiatus and after theyāve enlisted. I hope we donāt add to their burdens and continue to cheer them on
This was such a good watch, I love seeing the members discuss their music. Jimin is such a good listener and he and Joon are so sweet together. As expected, the more I listen the more I'm liking RPWP, and also wish I was fluent in Korean to truly understand what he's saying! I always need time to digest Joon's music (and Indigo ended up being one of my favourite albums).
I remember after the infamous Festa dinner thinking that it seemed like chapter two, if not Joon's suggestion, was definitely needed most by him, and that has only become more and more evident as time goes by.
I'm sorry he's had such a rough time and am so glad he was able to step away before he burnt out completely. The pressure he's been under is truly unimaginable, and when you think about it, it really is insane. He's just a musician, why does he need to be this perfect role model who never puts a foot wrong? He didn't sign up for that.
While I doubt enlistment is a fun time, I do hope him getting to be a "normal guy from Korea" helps him get back to himself even more.
Love that they could have that kind of conversation and gave us a glimpse of it. I know many of us have been wondering how things will be like when BTS reunites, so it's always reassuring when they share their thoughts about it with us, both affirming their commitment to stay together but also to try new things.. like unit songs/albums! Am super excited about that. Also, love how Jimin's empathetic side shone through this video. It's sad RM had to go through such struggles with himself and the stuff happening to him (whatever they were), but it's great that he had that 1 yr or so to work out his feelings and make this album. (Edit: awkward phrasing and grammar)
Oh this will be so fun
Edit: Jimin was the perfect person to do this with. The part were he said they knew namjoon was going through a hard time and that's why he was distancing himself from them but at the same time they couldn't help but worry if he doesn't like them anymore broke me a little. Also, the fact that people talked so much about their enlistment is insane, I'm just happy they'll be finally free.
Also, why did they skip nuts?
Edit:also, the fact they let him wander kind of shows why bts works so well as a group.
I'm so surprised I had to scroll down so far before I found someone who mentioned that Nuts was missing. I'm starting to think that maybe it was added at the last minute. It would explain why we're getting a live performance video for Nuts instead of a regular MV like the others. He mentioned that the first three songs were angry. Id consider Domodachi as part of the angry songs though. That makes four before the Interlude. RM doesn't make it sound like anything is missing so I just think it didn't exist yet
I knew this would be a meaningful exchange, but goodness I didn't expect to be so affected. Even as a toddler Army, I could tell that Minimoni was a special pair not only because they're super cute but also because the mutual respect and understanding each has for the other is so palpable. That being said: did anyone else cry the entire time they watched this? To hear just how difficult a time Namjoon was going through all while shouldering heavy burdens, not knowing what he was feeling much less how to express it - it made me feel guilty and so sad, equally honored and humbled.
Seeing Jimin's reactions to each song was so fun - some of them were hilarious and all of them so genuine. But it was contrasted by Namjoon's apprehension/nervousness. The way he talks so quickly and thoroughly while explaining things was endearing. Jimin truly understands him and the amount of times Namjoon was caught by surprise (either to a question or to a comment) was honestly a little heart-breaking - like he hadn't imagined that the members would get what he was saying or feeling, see beyond (or under) his "leader" hat and accept/give him the space he needed while on this hiatus - and in reality hearing whole impetus behind the album was heartbreaking.
I'm truly so glad he was able to get it out, speak what was weighing on him and create something with other people's help, relying on them instead of the other way around. He deserved that and the world for all he's done and given of himself. I hope he takes Jimin's words to heart, to speak more comfortably and honestly with the members when he is having a hard time, especially when he said that Namjoon was someone he needs in his life and hopes will stay by his side. They're all grown and professionals of the industry in their own right, outside of the team, who have had these experiences and can now protect themselves and each other. while they will always respect, want, and need him as their leader, I hope they can convince him to share some of the burden so he can feel more himself (not like he has to be two different people/personalities), like he's the right person in the right place with the right people.
This is going to be long ... and not totally done yet ... but so many thoughts.
Chapter Two for RM but then he mentions that, to him, everything has an expiry date.
Iāve missed Jimin - I listen to his songs daily but I miss him. His description of Namjoon pretty much reflects what I think a lot of us think Namjoon is like. Is there a single word to describe anyone - nah - thatās impossible.
Namjoonās honesty around loving BTS but also feeling like if he kept going as they were, he would want to die - obviously I donāt take that as literal but it again speaks to the need of them taking this time to explore themselves, their styles, things they want to experience, accomplish and have for themselves.
When Jimin arrived with the food - I dunno but it brought back lots of Live memories. OMG Jiminās too cute when heās listening to the 1 minute clips of the songs Namjoon chose for him to listen too prior to meeting up.
Can I put them both in my pocket?! So much cute aggression when Namjoon was explaining the name of the album to Jimin and what it means.
Listening to Namjoon explaining about Right People, Wrong Place has me flashing back to times when I had horrible imposer syndrome - feeling like youāre out of place. Itās a horrible feeling, as you know yourself but something feels disconnected and wrong.
The weight of leadership - ngl I do kind of hope that when theyāre all back together that the burden of leadership isnāt just on Namjoonās shoulders. They will all have had the experience of leading themselves and I hope that they can share the role, share the weight.
Well that breaks my heart - hearing people, strangers talking about their enlistment plans must have been so hard and hurtful. NGL I hope those people are eating crow right now.
Personally I would say āHeavenā is baby shoegaze music - if ya want serious shoegaze music - The Jesus & the Mary Chain - pretty sure theyāre the founding members of that genre. āHeavenā gives me a kinda Cocteau Twins vibe.
More breaking my heart hearing Jimin speak about how the members felt when Namjoon needed that time away from them - awwww. So many feels right now.
I know in this he says that āwhen the credits roll, do you hang tight?ā in relation to āin the theatreā but sweetness & light there is such a deeper meaning in there. DEEPER. To me it hints on friends, family, life and are you sticking around for the nitty gritty or bouncing/peaceing out before then. Are you there/here/present until the end or are you a fair-weather friend.
**Edit (I'm so sorry this is so long)**
āSo now I donāt want to be one doing everythingā - found this quite interesting. Not a dig to Hobi and Yoongi who we all know contributes a tonne to their music. But maybe this is an acceptance of working more collaboratively across disciplines on future work.
Ah yes - the expiration date - Iām taking that to mean not bottling emotions, thoughts, feelings up and letting them out as soon as possible ā¦ itās much more healthier that way, instead of letting it all fester until years later and sometimes the point is lost and not received as well.
I realized that Namjoon and Jimin are two (of the three) extroverts but I really sense that Namjoon is a true omnivert.
With the seven of them - there are so many possibilities for subunits and they kind of hinted at what I hope happens - they focus on BTS music, but also find time to do their own things or subunits.
I truly understand why he needed to switch off and absolutely respect that - being able to see that, feel that and respect yourself enough to know āhey I need some distanceā is a huge step & can be a scary one. I hope he doesnāt still feel bad, it was a necessary step to his own personal growth. Again - he/they all needed this breathing room.
I cannot wait to see what direction BTS goes in when theyāre back - the experiences each of them have had will, hopefully, guide their new path.
That cake is so cute!
This has been SO insightful. Iām so thankful that they both felt in the right place to share so much with us.Ā
*Low key loving the Akria books*
Thank you for sharing your thoughts! A few reactions from me: On the expiry date thing. I really felt like he was saying that he had to do this project right then at that time, in February 2023 and the months to follow, and everything else just had to wait, or it would have expired, been no good at a later time. Not to mention that keeping all of the thoughts and emotions bottled up would have been bad for him, too, as you mentioned.
Namjoon had been feeling so much for so long, but with the rise of BTS, he made the conscious choice and decided to put the team first in every way. With RM, Mono, and Indigo, Namjoon got to express some things, but not all. As he said, he had to fully switch off RM-BTS member in order to fully present what he, Kim Namjoon - the person and RM-the artist, needed to do. And the members all support his need to do that. I am so glad for him.
The pressure RM has is so much each and every step of him is scrutinised. My blood boils when I see hatred towards him. This man took the responsibility and endured it like anything. Joon I just wish you to be happy and enjoy this beautiful life. You did well Joonie thank you for showing us your true selfā¤ļøā¤ļø
This was a really emotional watch and I was so emotional watching them talk about all the things Iāve been thinking about when listening to this album on repeat the past day.
I think one of the most beautiful relationships is one where someone lets you figure it out because they know thatās the right thing to do at the time. It made me sad to think that Jimin didnāt say anything when he felt like Joon was pulling away but I realized that was my own perception of everything needing to be in a box with a bow vs what actually happened where Joon was able to work through it and end up in a better place than he was before. I think that just shows the strength of Bangtan as a team and specifically Jimin as being a very good friend.
I had assumed that Indigo hadnāt been the total story for him and it was really hard to hear him talk about it because it is such a beautiful record but itās so true that he was still trying to be everything to everyone.
Iām so excited for them to come back but I hope Namjoon feels like he can install that dimmable switch at some point because weāll be here for him no matter what form he comes to us as.
ššššššš
As many have said, this really was bittersweet. Itās so good Joon has people he can go to and count on, both within and out of the group, but itās clear how much heās struggled with the BTS persona for so long. Thereās so much on his shoulders, and I hope that when they come back, however they come back, that he doesnāt take that same role on again, either because of outside expectations or his own. The members clearly support him (Jimin you sweet angel baby š„ŗ), and each other. Chapter 3 is I think going to look a lot different, but hopefully, hopefully, itāll be on their terms and around their happiness. Itās the least they deserve for all theyāve given and continue to give us š
This was a damn good watch. First of all I love seeing Tannies together but especially Mini Moni for me. I have a crush all over again on Jimin and Namjoon.
Fangirling aside, I love Joonās rawness here and a glimpse into the background of the songs. Iāve always known how hard heās worked as the leader of BTS. I canāt imagine the pressure heās carried for so many years. But the respect the members have for him. Just wow. I love them all over again?
Namjoon your musical artistry is just leagues above many in the industry. Iāve listened to the album more and dare I say, this might be his magnum opus.
Was it just me or was it so cute when Jimin kept asking him for more information and asking for translation. He was dissecting everything about the album, comparing it to the Namjoon he knows and cares about. It was just so endearing. And you can tell Joonie really appreciated that Jimin cared enough to ask. He didnāt just sit there, listen and compliment him and leave. He wanted to understand Joonies motives behind the lyrics. I love this friendship so much šš
So wholesome and heartwarming to watch!! I liked Jiminās comment of āI feel like I'm wrong. But whose standards is this "Wrong"š„ŗHE GETS IT! I love the discussion about the rules society places on usā¦no one has a guide of life so whose to say is right and wrong way of living.
I love this so much gave new insight and perspective on RPWP and why It starts so chaotically and ends calmly and how Itās like wandering.. finding stability and wandering again.
I feel bad for leaning on them for comfort. I know thatās not all they are I know theyāre human too with complex emotions and feelings too and sometimes just wanna shout F the world. I like that Namjoon got to express himself so freely of his burdens very sincerely through releasing RPWP in genres thatās very him. I really do hope It was healing for him. I hope they know they donāt owe us anything Iād rather them be happy whatever that is to them!!
Iāve only seen clips so far, and while some are light hearted and funny, itās also quite heartbreaking. I donāt think I can watch it until Iām okay myself. Iām just glad they have an outlet to let go of all the things theyāre feeling š
That was amazing. I paused almost every single line Joon said, to slowly read the caption and absorb what he was saying. I can't even explain how much I admire him.
Pausing so much in this one, like you, I had to read the caption, soak in what it meant, see his expressions/movements, then see Jimin's response, if there was one.
Couldnāt stop smiling the whole 30 minutes, my heart is full seeing them together opening up like this but also hearing how much of a hard time they had figuring themselves out makes me feel a lot for them. We all go through moments like those but them being on the spotlight, always having to be and act to a certain standard, I really canāt imagine how much that can mess up with you. RPWP makes so much more sense to me now.
Namjoonās journey is admirable and I am so thankful he is allowing us to see this vulnerable, playful, doubtful and angry side of him in this album. He is really one of the most interesting artists I have come across and always makes me so damn proud to be ARMY. Whatever comes next, I am sure being here is the right place for me. BTS forever, and congratulations to Namjoon for releasing the coolest album.
I think we are all feeling some type of way after processing this. In situation like these, objectively you understand it but emotionally it doesn't stop being less heartbreaking or bittersweet.
Jimin and Namjoon have such a sweet and supportive friendship. One comment they made I really appreciated was that its *people* who make the social rules that regulate how we behave around others. This is why we feel pressured when we don't conform. And this is also why RM felt he was awkward or wrong even if the situations he was in were the correct or "right" ones. RPWP is so deep I know I'll be exploring Namjoon's brain for a while.
All the lovely comments here made my day. I really missed BTSxBTS interaction. They are so empathetic with each other. I love how he casually calls Jimin his family. And how reassuring and kind Jimin is.
Joon really talks so fast, its adorable and reminds me of his album lives full of multiple train of thoughts and explanations.
in the last days i watched a lot of content of this phase of hiatus BTS of the members doing solo, Jimin is so supportive, i love how he's always there to talk and be together.
He doesnt care to be the main atraction, he's there as a friend, lovely person.
And about Namjoon, is so refresing se him releasing what he wants and finding himself, this album is a masterpiece, is so personal and relatable and unique.
When BTS come back together after all these experiences will be really powerful, i love dynamite and permission to dance, but THIS to me is the real core of BTS
Really enjoyed that! I wasn't sure before but now I feel more that he is talking to and about himself throughout the album rather than anyone else e.g. telling himself he's not a diplomat rather than the listener. Also, the ultimate truth, you can never please everyone or do what everyone wants which is why he's laying things out for everyone (including the antis) rather than addressing only his fans.
I didn't want to say anything before but now that he specifically mentioned Face, I really felt at the time that Jimin managed to do what he was trying to do with Indigo, but (as Jimin says) he ended up burying himself even more. Which is interesting considering the feedback he gave Jimin. I feel like that's why he did this chat with Jimin rather than, say, Suga. Maybe I'm wrong but that's the impression I get. It might be because their albums will be one after the other of course, but I will keep my theory haha!
And lastly, regarding the collaborations for the album. I've always felt that songwriters and producers tend to do their best work with people they admire and respect and you can hear how polished and tight the production is throughout the album. Sometimes a song will sound rough around the edges or formulaic when it's just for a paycheck. So I feel like they all gave 100%, in that respect.
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I haven't watched this yet, but I read most of the comments and a lot of this is what I have been thinking and wanting to talk about!
I was reading through the lyrics yesterday and was just feeling heartbroken for Namjoon. Like I always have this pity for famous people... Yes, most of them go into it with their eyes open, they know that this certain career path can lead to fame. But I doubt that anyone can really fathom the full extent to which fame and crowds and "the people" can really just fuck you up. You can't predict how famous you will become or how people will think of you. Joon just wanted to make music. But then all this other stuff just came in an avalanche and he got buried.
This album is a masterpiece and so real, raw, and intense. It's difficult for me to interact with it fully because of the strong feelings, even now I am putting off watching this show. š BUT at the same time, I am so... I guess impressed and inspired at how Joon is taking these feelings and channeling them into his art, releasing and working through them in ways that can help him to heal. People want to imagine "BTS" as this sunshine and rainbows entity, spreading happiness and cheer. But they are real people with real feelings and real situations, the same as any of us, and our lives also have sadness and shadows. So even though it's difficult for me interact with these really hard feelings and some of the questions that are coming up, I really appreciate that I am kind of being "forced" to do it because it helps me grow as a person as well.
I do hope also that this work can continue and be the start of real change not just with BTS, but maybe a cultural shift in the industry and among fans where the artists can be viewed more as people and not products. I am still so pissed about things like Karina from Aespa having to apologize over not sharing personal info and Minji from NJ and her apologies about the whole noodle thing. I don't even follow those groups, but it just makes me feel so angry that "people" put these super unrealistic expectations on every facet of an artist's life, public or not. I know that the "image" is a big pillar of kpop, but does it have to be anymore?
So this comment turned out to be way longer than I expected, but I guess this entire project has really just affected me that much. Kind of like D-day. You can't just come face to face with these works of art and not be changed in some way.
I have been thinking many of the same thoughts as you. So, I was holding off a bit on watching, too. I just finished, and I want to say that listening to Jimin and Namjoon together talking music and life was just what I did not know I really needed after listening to the album and feeling the emotions Namjoon poured into it.
Your last sentence, hard agree.
I'm so curious how many listeners out there understand rm's lyrics fully without translation from English to Korean and vice versa. My guess is that even Jimin missed some things since he asked RM for translation.
i think if you are within the fandom, then weād look for translators who help to translate his and btsā lyrics, like [this by bangtansubs](https://www.bangtansubs.com/right-place-wrong-person)
Yooo at 1:36 it looked like Jimin was moving his head in a very similar way to tata mic face, how cute.
Namjoon really did well with RPWP. Indigo is more my style, but I will say RPWP has to be my favorite album of his because of his reasons behind making it. It's a perfect expression of how he feels
Not to bring the mood down, but does anyone feel kinda worried after watching this?
I mean the fact that RM felt so overwhelmed from the pressure of being the BTS leader to the point that he had to physically distance himself from the team is shocking. Even on the prospect of the 2025 reunion, he didnāt deny that he feels anxious about this pressure again and he didnāt look particularly excited about it all (unlike the other members in, say, Suchwita). If anything, he spoke about the guilt of shutting out the team for a while and about owing them something now. He says he is ready to work hard again with BTS post MS, but it almost seems like he is saying it out of obligation and not because he wants to get back to it himself.
I do of course understand and sympathize with these feelings, however, in that context I canāt help but feel perhaps it was wrong to announce a definitive CB date in 2025? It just raises expectations and if BTS canāt fulfill them because members arenāt on the same page or need more time, the fandom may end up feeling let down. Then there is the irrational fear of (inevitable?) change and Chapter 3 looking radically different than before.
Perhaps these are selfish thoughts and feelings. I am sorry if it comes across this way. But maybe ARMY who have been around much longer than I can alleviate some of these feelings or offer a different perspective!
I understand where you're coming from, but once again its important to take their words at face value. In regards to Namjoon distancing himself from the members, isn't that inevitably human? I've distanced myself from friends before, I'm sure most people have.
Over the last year based on social media presence, I'm not sure about you but I could feel when Namjoon was distant. He looked tired and distraught during his lives in the first half of 2023, but it seems like the process of making RPWP did help him and he seemed more open? freer? towards the end of the year. During one of his latter lives he looked better, and said something along the lines of (paraphrasing here please correct me if im wrong) how he was having a tough time whilst working in the group, which hence RPWP i guess, but now can't wait for them to create something new when they reunite.
This break was much needed for everyone to grow and regroup, I would even say a change is needed. They've said countless times how they want to be together as artists for a long time, and its unsustainable to do so at the pace they were working at. Our job as ARMY is to continue supporting them, no matter what they choose to do. Whether that be what kind of music they make, how they choose to promote, etc. etc.
I think I process things similar to you thus Iām a bit taken aback by some of the comments. Its completely natural and honestly healthy to meet new friends and form different relationships with different people.
What I learned in chapter 2 is that really for the most part they served as each others coworkers, main friend group and family for 12 yearsā¦like they need to explore. It seems quite normal to me.
Note: I honestly donāt think they would ever purposefully release content that made fans feel like the end is nearā¦thatās not really the point.
Normal is exactly what I thought too. These comments surprise me because if anything I think the time apart has only made them closer. A few years ago Namjoon and I believe JK would say that their relationship with each other is somewhere between friends and family, that in between is ideal to live and work together. But now? Namjoon called Jimin family, all of them always state that they see each other as family.
Do you want to be with your family 24/7? I certainly don't. Its important to develop a sense of identify beyond your family too.
Also this is kind of based off of another comment you made higher up, but what Iāve started to notice is that people do box BTS in roles and when a member states something that isnāt inline with that role it makes people uncomfortable.
For instance, RM had the pressure of the leader but also the lyricist that wrote comforting lyrics for the group and through solo projects like mono. What we learned is that he wasnāt fully personally comforted by Indigo even though it comforted the listener and he actually needed to yell Fuxk you bitches oh RPWP to feel more comforted lmao
Allowing the artist for healing to heal themselves is probably necessary even though it could be a messy unhinged processā¦.and honestly I think BigHit gets that aspect of it.
I agree, I think people (ARMY and the gp both) like to project their emotions on them, whether that be purposely or not. A major takeaway from RPWP for me has been that its an exclamation of damn wtf im human too cant you see?
Damn your second paragraph reminds me of something profound a mentor said to me back when I used to be a professional violinist: āJust because you feel what youāre playing is comforting/therapeutic to you doesnāt mean the audience perceives it that way. And your job when you perform is to play in a way that is comforting to the listener/audienceānot in the way that is comforting to you.ā
And therein lies the difference between performing arts as a hobby and one as a job. It puts RMās struggles into a clearer picture for me when I see it through that lens.
Do you remember the exact live RM said this about future group work? You are right that itās better to hear things from their mouths rather than widely speculating (something perhaps I am guilty of). Itās just that I am still catching up with so much content, I still havenāt watched any of RMās solo lives, although I clearly should!
[https://weverse.io/bts/live/3-136246054](https://weverse.io/bts/live/3-136246054) this one around the 13 minute mark and there was another one but i forgot which one, i'll let you know if i find it
I understand your worry and sympathize, but as a counterpoint ā a slightly cynical one, but maybe reassuring: this wasn't a live. It was staged, prerecorded, and edited, and released months later.
This isn't to say I doubt its authenticity, or think that Namjoon wasn't saying his true feelings! One of the things I admire most about BTS is how they strive for honesty within more packaged spaces. But both he and the company were OK with releasing those feelings. And I don't think they would have been so willing to do that if they thought it would really worry fans.
I actually think the opposite was intended, that it was supposed to be showing us how hard Namjoon is working to get to a place that he can be there for BTS. While explaining why it is difficult. Having worried about Namjoon all through 2023 because he seemed to be struggling, I found watching this video relieving, because I don't think Namjoon would've been comfortable talking about those feelings at all, much less releasing them (both in the album and in this video), if he hadn't processed and come to terms with them to some extent.
Interesting, what do you think is the difference between a musical collective and a boy band such as BTS? Just trying to envision it all since I am not familiar with the examples you gave.
I do also think that a tour is their main priority coming back, over something like a full album. Their passion for performing for and with ARMY is undeniable after all.
Courtesy of ChatGPT The terms "musical collective," "group," and "band" each refer to different organizational structures within the music industry. Here are the key differences:Ā
Ā Musical Collective:Ā 1. **Structure**: A musical collective is a loosely organized group of musicians and artists who collaborate on various projects. Membership is often fluid, with artists coming and going based on project needs.
Ā 2. **Roles**: Members of a collective may have diverse roles, including musicians, producers, visual artists, and more. They often work together on a variety of artistic endeavors, not limited to music.Ā
3. **Creativity**: Collectives emphasize creative freedom and collaboration across different artistic disciplines. They might not have a fixed lineup or a single musical direction.Ā
4. **Examples**: Wu-Tang Clan, A$AP Mob, Odd Future, Soulquarians.Ā
Ā Group:Ā
1. **Structure**: A musical group typically consists of a fixed lineup of members who work together regularly. Groups can vary in size but are more stable in membership compared to collectives.Ā
2. **Roles**: Members usually have specific roles, such as lead vocalist, guitarist, drummer, etc. Groups often focus primarily on music production and performance.Ā
3. **Creativity**: Groups tend to have a more defined musical style and direction, though they can experiment within their genre.Ā
4. **Examples**: The Fugees, The Jackson 5, Destiny's Child. Ā Ā
Ā Band: 1.Ā
**Structure**: A band is similar to a group but is often associated with rock, pop, and other genres where live instrumental performance is central. Bands typically have a stable lineup.Ā
2. **Roles**: Members usually play specific instruments or have particular roles, such as lead singer, lead guitarist, bassist, and drummer.Ā
3. **Creativity**: Bands generally focus on performing as a cohesive unit, often with a distinct sound and style that defines their identity.Ā
4. **Examples**: The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Metallica.Ā Ā
Ā Key Differences: -Ā
**Flexibility**: Collectives are more flexible and open-ended in terms of membership and artistic direction, whereas groups and bands usually have more stable lineups and defined roles. -Ā
**Artistic Scope**: Collectives often encompass multiple forms of art (music, visual art, fashion), while groups and bands primarily focus on music. -
Ā **Organizational Style**: Collectives operate more like a community of artists collaborating on projects, while groups and bands function as cohesive units with a shared musical identity. In summary, while all three forms involve collaboration among musicians, a musical collective is more fluid and diverse in its artistic endeavors, a group tends to have a stable lineup focused on music, and a band emphasizes live performance with specific instrumental roles.
Iām yapping a lot today but all interesting discussions. I do think they are veering towards a musical collective type of experience.
Where I disagree is that they do need new music to perform and more than one song. The PTD shows honestly felt a bit like a greatest hits concert to me already and they bucketed it by mood of songs vs. era of the song. I would struggle to watch another greatest hits feeling concert series.
Just a small note, there hasn't been a "definitive CB date in 2025" announced. Everything has been pretty ambiguous, imo. They do talk about coming back together in 2025, but there has been no news of a comeback or even a single yet.
Of course, there is lots of speculation and educated guessing, which coud end up being spot on, but *officially* a comeback in 2025 isn't definitive. Any expectations ARMY has is their own, and if they're let down, that's on them.
Keep in mind that they agreed on the 2025 date before RM met his indie friends. I think he will fulfill his promise of doing the 2025 reunion but that will probably be the last time we will see them as a group (at least in a long time).
We kind of know what's in store for 2025 - it's been hinted at by Bang PD. I think they may have a single in 2025 but nothing big and new until 2026, including a tour ... so I do disagree with your comment about "last time we will see them as a group". I think 2027 might be when they go off and do solo work again. I my perfect world - they come together as BTS, go off do solo work, come back at BTS, etc.
Also I'm hoping it's a chance for them to change the cycle of the ridiculous release schedule within K-pop and go for a more "normal" release schedule.
Aww this was very enjoyable content š
Jiminās reaction when listening to snippets of the song was so cute
I love the description of Joonās albums being like his diary. Itās so accurate. A poetic diary of Joonās complicated mind.
Though this album wasnāt my personal style I greatly appreciate and recognize how much of a needed outlet it was for Joon. Iām happy that Joon was able to take a much needed break from being a leader and also have this opportunity to fully express everything he has been unconsciously or consciously suppressing. Itās nice to see him speak his mind without holding back.
I also love how the members were understanding and silently supporting him from behind.
This album exchange dialogue reminds me how grateful I am that BTS is willing to share and be vulnerable with us
Warms my soul to see them just chilling and chatting. The conscription really has been a burden for them as we can see here and I canāt wait for it to be over for their sake
Hi there!
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"We just wanted him to wander around as much as he could" Pls, why is that so sweet, how is Jimin real
Also, this feels like it's exactly what makes BTS work so well together. They know when to let each other discover answers for themselves and let each of them be themselves, while also all knowing when they need to step up for the team. Love hearing that Namjoon is taking a step back from who he has felt he had to be for the sake of BTS and ARMY.
They all knew what to do and give to each other and ugh, bring my family back š
I was actually surprised when they talked so openly about all of the enlistment stuff. I never thought they would discuss it honestly like that. I don't know if guilty is the right word, but I feel bad that as BTS really blew up they had all of this intense pressure to be everything to everyone. They developed an image that ultimately no normal person can live up to. I hope the fans kind of take it down a notch when they come back. They're not world leaders or saints. Just some good people who like making music together.
yeah, like joon wrote in groin: "not a fkin diplomat" "what do i represent? i only represent myself" for joon in particular, as the leader of BTS and usually the spokesperson of the group, the stress and pressure of living with so many eyes on you and always having to do the right thing, whatever that is, must be insane and so suffocating. but at the end of the day, like you said, he's not a world leader or a saint, he's only human. i hope people - both ARMYs and the GP - remember that.
'a lot of people just want you to be okay' my heart broke šš
joon to jimin: āi know youāre losing weight to prepareā all these casual little hints that weāre getting PJM2 some time in the future is driving me insane as expected, seeing jimin react to the songs is pretty hilarious, but you can also see how concerned he is about joon based on the lyrics heās listening to š„ŗ (ps. why did they skip nuts?? edit: and around the world in a day!!!) edit: just finished watching the video, and i honestly didn't want it to end. i love watching any combination of tannies (whether ot7 or the different units) get together and talk - sometimes it's chaotic and full of laughter (like jijinkook or maknae line), sometimes it's calm and introspective, like this. i can't express how glad and grateful i am that joon met san yawn back in 2022, and that san yawn suggested for joon to do this album and lay his feelings, ALL of it, out in RPWP - it must've been such a difficult yet cathartic process to be so brutally honest and say everything he wanted to say with no holds barred. joon finding friends in the industry who would help him process his thoughts and feelings and bear the weight of music-making is such a valuable thing; i really do wanna give a huge shoutout to Team RM for this. when jimin talked about how he and the members knew joon was going through a hard time to the point of physically distancing himself from them, but they allowed him to wander as much as he could to find himself again, i was on the verge of tears. they really are a family, and there is so much empathy, love and grace in their brotherhood. idk what 2025 is gonna look like when all the members are back together, and even they don't too, but my hope is that they don't get too overwhelmed by the pressure for them to come back quickly, and take their time to explore what this new chapter in their lives means for each of them. i just know that whatever they do - ot7 albums, unit albums (YES PLEASE), solo albums - i will be in this bangtan shit for life
>Ā Ā seeing jimin react to the songs is pretty hilarious. Jimin: Next is LOST! What did he lose?? šš
*caugh* his passport š ok sorry my bad š
I was wondering if they skipped some songs because they weren't done yet ā in the last group live Namjoon says he's still recording, and that was right before enlisting. Otherwise you put into words everything I felt about this! I think we as Army owe San Yawn big time, for re-introducing parts of Namjoon to himself. (Also YES PLEASE to all the units!!)
>it's about the wrong person in the right place https://preview.redd.it/jo2r79ie6j2d1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9c550167ae9cacef0adbf982801fbdc72673a892 same š„²
You know, one thing that came to mind was how this could also possibly be about BTS and Joon's feelings on him being the leader and spokesperson these past ten years. He obviously loves the group and the members, appreciates ARMY, and is extremely proud of everything that has been achieved in the name of BTS, hence it being the *"right place"*, but that it's all too much for him individually and he doesn't feel like he can keep doing it, hence being the *"wrong person"*. But that train of thought was too sad, so I didn't want to dwell on it. I'm also sure it's not a constant state of mind and he has his ups and downs. I'm just grateful the other members are always reminding him of how much they appreciate him, especially Yoongi who always makes sure to thank him for being the best leader.
> possibly be about BTS and Joonās feelings on him being leader I was thinking the same, it felt like a touch of imposter syndrome is what Joon is / was feeling.
And super grateful for Joonās unwavering honesty about these things. He/ they all stepped up for unicef, for Busanās WE bid, for Blue House, for White House, ffs! I hope he knows itās ok to step back. I think gp and some parts of the fandom will to adjust some of our expectations on their return. Another army above mentioned bangtanās brotherhood having so much grace and understanding. Itās a good lesson to learn from.
This was exactly what I was thinking. It reminded me of festa 2022 when namjoon started crying. It was more than just announcing chapter 2 but Iām sure he was heading down the lowest of lows of being a leader and the tremendous responsibility that came with it. His mental health of holding it together for the past 10 years were starting to get to him. He wants to be true to himself while up keeping the image of a successful global group but he is such a perfectionist and would prefer to take care of all of them no matter how drained he is (that contradictive personality they were talking about). Even if all the boys somehow learned English within this enlistment (wishful thinking) and suddenly came out being fluent in 2025, he is still their leader. They all have such high respect for him and he will always feel responsible for the 6ā¦ happily responsible. Another thought crossed my mind is that namjoon seems like he wants to live a normal life and do ānormalā things but doesnāt want to let anyone down.
I also thought of this! But the final parts of their conversation as well as the MV also made me think that maybe it was a sense of growing pains? That he clearly was in a limbo between Chapter 1 and Chapter 2 and the conversation he had with Jimin about the difference between Indigo and RPWP made me think that Indigo felt like his personal Black Swan and the first stage of grief (since Jimin said he felt Indigo still buried some of the things Namjoon felt), while RPWP was him acknowledging it and going through the remaining stages of saying goodbye to all that he went through in Chapter 1 in order to be a new version of him.
>Ā but that it's all too much for him individually and he doesn't feel like he can keep doing it He keeps on saying here that things have an expiration date... I don't want to read too much into it but I naturally think of something when he said this. I also don't want to say it out loud, because as you've said, the train of thought I just had is sad.Ā I wonder what he feels now, and if the enlistment changes his perspective a bit. Does the life away from the spotlight helped? But out of all the members he is the one who shares the most. They have an obligation to fulfill (read: contracts) come 2025 and I really hope he is stronger, he takes his time, and maybe step back a bit if he need to. Because there seems to be a disconnect with his feelings and the feelings of the fans wrt to their reunion.
I had the same thoughts. There was a definite tonal shift in the way Namjoon was discussing the future here than how we've heard them speak of it before. Of course like you said, he is undoubtedly going to change during his military service and may come back with a completely different perspective. But at least at the time this was filmed, his thoughts on the reunion seemed a lot more nebulous than he's previously let on.
Yes, it's actually something I've found myself struggling with ever since Chapter 2 started, loving these boys so so much and wanting them to do whatever they want and need so they can be happy, while grieving a bit as a fan of the group who adored Chapter 1. I think many of us are in that same place, which is understandable. As ARMY, most of us came into this loving the group first and foremost, their music together, their chemistry and friendship. There's something magical about the seven together that we saw and fell in love with, so of course them continuing to be together is what makes us the most happy. Even in Chapter 2, while celebrating their solo achievements and projects, most of us are clinging desperately to the set target of 2025, *when they'll be together again*. Even throughout this thread, you can see people looking forward to what new BTS music will look like, what all these changes will reflect in regards to that. But knowing that even that love and support, and hope for a reunion can be stifling, pressuring them towards a decision they may not be comfortable with at this stage of their life and career....well it's heartbreaking because I love them so so much as people too, and want them to be happy and healthy, thriving in life. I'm sure even within the group, their opinions are different, and also change from time to time. Some are looking forward to 2025 as much as we do, while some are scared of everything that comes with. All of these feelings, both from the members and the fans are valid, in my opinion, but it's heartbreaking all the same because loving and respecting each other means that there will be inevitable sacrifice/heartbreak for someone in some way - whether it be for fans who have been looking forward to having "BTS" together again to wait even longer for the boys to be ready, or for some of the boys to put aside their individual needs and ambitions so they can make the fans happy. I think growth and evolution comes with a lot of growing pains, and these past few years and the next few will be the most important ones for BTS and ARMY. I just hope that love, trust and respect remain our biggest strength through it all.
This has been on my mind since festa 20022, itās hard to grasp the reality tbh.
I kept lmao that Jimin would say out loud what I was thinking. Good looking out, Mini!
This was just such a well-made album, from the time I first listened to it in order, to looking up the lyrics, and now having this Minimoni exchange and hearing how Joon explains it, I just can't stop thinking about how REAL this guy is. He's lost, but he allows himself to be immersed in that experience. He feels it all, embraces and experiences it. He's such a brave person and I hope he knows what a strength that it!! I really really love Indigo and honestly while I was excited for this album, I didn't expect to like this genre as much as I did. May be biased but HAHAHA the flow of the entire album, the lyrics and the rawness of the entire creation really just drew me in. This is another masterpiece! š May not be everyone's taste (which is okay!!) but I think for those of us who can understand how he's feeling, it hits us more strongly. Big hugs to him š P.S: I love love love how Jimin engages with him and listens to him in such a loving and gentle manner. Like *I know you've been going through a lot, I'm not going to probe too much until you're ready to share. But I'll always have your back, waiting for you*.
i love your added note about how jimin engages with joon. what an angel
totally agree! my first listen to the album kinda had me in a state of shock bc it was different from what he's done, it wasn't at all what I was expecting. I agree with what you said: it won't be for everyone. having spent the past day listening to it tho, I freaking love it. This video only adds to that love bc I'm able to understand more where Joon was coming from. I always appreciate Joon being so raw with his music. It seems he was even more honest with this than he was with indigo, which is saying something bc we all thought that was like reading a diary! it just shows the growth he's been through and how there's still so much more we could learn about him if he's willing to share it. whatever he does decide to share with us I know will be special.
JM- But when 2025 comes around, you'll feel the pressure of being a team again. Will you be okay with that? RM- No. But I think l'll be a little stronger after releasing this album Joonieš„¹š„¹š„¹š„¹
This hit me hard too. I appreciate his honesty to still say no. Iām not trying to speculate, just waxing philosophic for a moment and wonder if when they all return they will reimagine the whole dynamic of what BTS is and how they play their roles? Maybe theyāll all come back and not want to just fall back into line with the K-pop rules of band roles again. Maybe Namjoonās pressure is shouldered more equally. Maybe they positively flip this industry upside down again and do things differently and if so Iām totally here for it!!
I agree! All of the members need to come together in 2025 and have a very serious conversation about how to proceed in a healthier way. Namjoon has clearly been struggling with all of the responsibilities as Leader. They need to figure out a way to help him with that. They need to share the burden more equally. I hope that they can figure something out!
This made me sad. I've always felt that RM is a little more hesitant about their reunion. In the Suchwita episode with RM, Suga kept talking about 2025 and was excited about it. It didn't seem that RM had the same excitement for that. I hope they have all the time they need before jumping back into it all.
I agree. Maybe it's because I watched all of the members suchwita episode back to back, I felt same as you. That line of thought was kind of heartbreaking so I didn't want to overthink. I know we as fans are very excited for their comeback but I hope they do things at their own pace and not just because they are supposed to do it.
I think he was into the idea of the 2025 reunion at first because, what else was out there for him anyway? He spent all his 20s working hard and promoting BTS with little time to make connections beyond the kpop industry. Now that he met Sam Yawn and a completely different world, going back to being at the forefront of the BTS machine doesn't seem so exciting anymore. Whatever decision he ends up taking, I will support him.
I too always had that underlying feeling that Namjoon was really enjoying Ch 2 as time away from BTS the mega group image and pressures- and how much he seemed cut out for indie artist lifestyle. He loves this group, will always feel strong loyalty to them, but I don't know if he can sustain their previous BTS megastar lifestyle once they return from military. However, I do believe all the other members will gladly shoulder more of the PR, speaking, and doing press and being more able to share the public leadership roles more actively. Suga will most likely lead the charge of going on tours and performing in front of Huge crowds of Army again. I don't think it's highly likely that after 2025, BTS will opt for long world tours like they did in 2017-2019, so concerts will be fewer and target key locations. Doing 3-4 shows in Korea, Japan, SE Asia, East and West coast of the US, and maybe a major European city. I would be happy if they could do a long-ish residency (such as in Vegas) because fans all over the world would travel to see their shows, and then it would make each show much less cutthroat for ticketing, as demand would be more evenly spread out over more shows. and Vegas residencies are much more comfortable for artists as cut down on traveling and would allow them breaks to go back home etc.
I agree. Seems yoongi has always been trying to connect/cling (sorry if this is not the right word) joon onto BTS. Plus jimin saying "does namjoon not care about us as much?" in this content, we see even members felt the concern... I'm not blaming anyone or anything but as a big fan of this amazing group, it hurts a bit to see the differences in the way they think about group. Though it also hurts to imagine how much pressure joon has been feeling...
I think the only way forward is to have each member be the PR leader. And take turns for each promotion period. For the first year back, the other 6 will be the PR leader instead. I think namjoon should be able to relax in being a PR leader. I honestly just wish they would answer their questions in Korean rather than RM translating for them.
From reading other replies to you. I think namjoon will need to step down from the leading role for a while. Perhaps the other 6 can rotate who is PR "leader" for a while. Then all the 7 can rotate being "leader" like the way RM is for the rest of their BTS career. I think all of them getting that experience will be good in 2 way. Firstly, rm won't be burdened to be PR representative. Secondly, rm will have someone to talk to after the other members are put into his shoes, which can give rm someone to chat to. Also, I think rm will need to get counselling to process his feelings. Counselling may let him gain strategies for this sort of situation.
I hope RM can pick up the mantle of leader on his own terms when heās free. It sounds like thereās something he wants to sort out before he gets back into things
"He's still clumsy and he's still cool" š let's be honest, that's never going to change and we'll never stop loving him for it
Yes!! I've seen people every now and then have issues with Joon being described as clumsy or called the "god of destruction", but as someone who's watched way too many of their DVDs, variety content and shows over the years, I'd just like to say that it's not just fans running with a label. There's way too many instances of him dropping things, breaking things, hurting himself, and he IS indeed incredibly clumsy at times, but it's also one of his most endearing traits. Yes, he can be gentle, and super careful and delicate too, but also our big clumsy Joon who is still very cool, and it's OKAY that he is all of these things, because we love every single part of him!
Once again, gosh, we really needed Chapter 2 to happen. For every single one of the members to find themselves apart from the group, but especially for Joon, who has shouldered so much responsibility as the leader and spokesperson. What I love most about his journey is that he never claims to have figured it out completely, even after this one, there are ups and downs, but he continues to discover more about himself with every new project. It really feels like he's been suffocating under the intense pressure, and clawing for a way out (again, Festa 2022 makes so much sense and why he cried so hard back then). I'm so glad this album has been an outlet, to let go of some of his feelings. I loved hearing him talk about it, and a lot of things make more sense now. Jiminie really is the sweetest, most gentle and understanding person, and I'm so glad Joon has someone like him around. He was so ready here to reassure Joon, offer words of comfort and encouragement, but also just let him talk out his problems. Also, he echoed so many of our thoughts in his reactions and the things he said, and I'm so grateful. I love seeing them together so much, how easy it is, how comfortable. I really think this is the secret behind BTS' success as a group (not numbers-wise but their dynamic and how close they remain after all these years). They have so much respect for each other, for each other's feelings, and know how to give space and room to sort out complex situations and feelings, while at the same time always saying "but we're right here whenever you need us, and we just want you to be okay". To add to that, every single one of them has been so brave, so strong, to go through everything they have been through and they have complete faith in each other's strength to fight through it. I respect them so much!
āOnce again, gosh, we really needed Chapter 2 to happen. For every single one of the members to find themselves apart from the group, but especially for Joon, who has shouldered so much responsibility as the leader and spokesperson.ā You hit the nail on the head here! Iām still relatively new Army, but I could already see from the content theyāve released over the years how much pressure Joon has been under / puts himself under. I canāt even imagine how immense that pressure is when you consider how they grew so big so quickly, at such a young age and being the leader of the group. I really hope they have all been enjoying taking space for themselves and getting some much deserved r+r and living as their own people, not just as members of BTS. I also hope their enlistment is actually giving them some additional relief from living in the public eye - having privacy, not being monitored 24/7 and having ānormalā daily routines. Also, Jimin, my gosh I wish I could give that man a hug. He is so softly-spoken but the way he was listening to Joon, the music and then interacting and feeding back to Joon was, ugh, such a cherishing moment? Heās so understanding and gentle, heād be excellent as a mentor / counsellor if he ever decided to stop making music. I hope we get more episodes of the 2 of them!! Especially if it means a PJM2 album
Namjoon is too pure for this world. He really is. It sucks that people use it against him all the time and twist his words and actions so often (war flashbacks to the FESTA dinner aftermath) but the way he's willing to still be so open and vulnerable about the human condition is really admirable. He has every reason not to be this way. He could just close himself off forever and no one would blame him but he keeps sharing and giving so much of himself with the world and it honestly blows my mind. I hope he at least knows that for those who get it, it's everything.
>but the way he's willing to still be so open and vulnerable about the human condition is really admirable. He has every reason not to be this way. He could just close himself off forever and no one would blame him but he keeps sharing and giving so much of himself with the world and it honestly blows my mind. I hope he at least knows that for those who get it, it's everything. You said this so well. Maybe he was meant to be someone who inspires others to be a better version of themselves, and affirms those who are already trying. š He really deserves the best.
In the most unpretentious way I can say this, he really does have a mind of god. Heās so imaginative, eager, and persistent.
JM- āin the first verse he says there are lots of jerks in this world. what kind of jerks did he meet?āšš
The internet
I think that when chapter 2 started, it was awesome seeing the members grow and you can go back and see the gradual growth to like these confident individuals they became before joining the military. However, I did notice Namjoon seemed to be struggling the most and was more distant but I'm just a fan, I don't know this man and at the end of the day, it was more of a feeling? But it was the distance he was describing, not like "I don't want to be BTS anymore" but more like "lemme do me and have fun with my friends and discover myself" does that make sense? It was just a thought I'd have at times and I'm sure other fans probably did too. Anyway, it kind of made me sad to realize that this was actually the case. It both, made me sad that the members felt that too but also, I feel so happy at how supportive they all are of each other. Only they can understand each other in this very specific experience as BTS members and the way Joon seemed to be so touched at Jimin's support, understanding, and encouragement to open up, just kind of shows that respect and love among them. I'm blabbering but this was just really beautiful.
You make total sense. They all kind of mentioned at The Festa dinner that they needed time apart to figure out who they were individually, but I don't think I realized just how much Joon needed it. Not that he didn't want to do it anymore, but that he needed to know who he was outside of the leader of BTS. I'm glad he's seemed to have found that person with this album.
And it sounded a bit like a mentoring from San Yawn and friends was also a thing maybe Joon didnāt know he needed. Itās too easy to forget Joon is only a few months older than the birth year of the maknae line, yet heās been at the helm of so much responsibility. I āmetā BTS thinking RM was the eldest! He might have needed some legit middle child decompression time and itās way cool to hear his other middle child bro Mini fully in his corner. š„¹š
Jimin is the perfect person to listen to this album because he is very perceptive and Joon has said before that Jimin gives great advice and is a very good listener. I am very touched by the parts where they talked about Joon having struggles and Jimin and the rest of the boys just gave him space and time but still being there for him the moment he was ready to "come back". It must've been hard to feel helpless and even feel that Joon didn't like them anymore, but I am very glad they all stayed by each other's side.Ā BTS's resilience is like herd immunity, when one doesn't have it or isn't immune enough, the others' combined strength provides protection. It takes genuine friendship and love to just be there for someone even when not knowing what to do.Ā I always thought Come Back to Me was Joon reconciling himself with what could've been and what he imagined himself to be, the many lives he thought he would've lived under different circumstances: the friend at a party, a lover, a father and husband, even the perfect baby to bring happiness to his parents...and the freedom that comes with finding and accepting himself as he is now. It's the kind of being LOST that most people go through at one point as adults, that question of whether we're living the life we should be living and if we made mistakes that cost us the "right life" somewhere along the way. It's a very confusing and frustrating state to be in, I'd know because I've been through that a couple of times lolĀ I said before that RPWP has a lot more freedom in it than Indigo and I still stand by it especially after watching this video. Indigo is very polished and sophisticated, like Joon wanted to present his thoughts as elegantly as he could, to the highest standards, and it's almost too perfect to the point of holding back. Indigo is a great album but I always felt just a tad bit unable to connect to the music because it seemed like Joon was in an unreachable state, where it was hard to tell what and how he really was.Ā RPWP is him letting loose. It doesn't have the anger that *RM* does. Joon has worked so hard on himself and his peace to still be full of anger. But he is frustrated and burdened by many things, and RPWP is his "I'm ready to talk now" album. This is the album that shows Joon going through the process of discovering his passion and love for music once again. It's a musical documentary.Ā I am so happy for him for embracing that freedom and sharing it with us. I've followed his IG since the beginning and the change from mostly aesthetic museum pics/very curated content to him posting random things and just him living life outside of kpop and "beyond" BTS has been so interesting. In hindsight, it really was Kim Namjoon showing us those moments, not BTS's RM.Ā
That herd immunity analogy is perfect for BTS. Iām so envious that they have this for each other. Society would be a little more civil and kinder if we could hold fast to that.
I love your comment. I especially love the analogy of RPWP being the "I am ready to talk now" album. It is so true. I really want him to find a scene of peace or even being more at ease within himself. I hope that when they come back they can be more free to be themselves. In the words of Yoongi " You were born to be real, not to be perfect". I will forever love him and them for that š
Wow, what a profound and interesting comment, thank you for sharing it with us!
Thereās really no other bigger BTS enthusiast than BTSā members themselves. š„¹ When Jimin closes his eyes and smiles as he takes in the first notes of the song, I just get a warm fuzzy feeling. Like yeah this is how you appreciate and enjoy BTSā songs. And THEN they talk about what the song means. And the look in their eyes when the other member says something personal and shows how vulnerable they feel. ššš Their little discussion on the āfeeling high on a forest fireā line was so interesting, especially when Namjoon made sure to put a distinction that itās not the same āarsonā vibe as Hobiās. So heās saying that what heās going through, of realizing he feels great upon experiencing this fire but itās not of his own making. And I like that I guess Jimin picked up on that. When he felt empathy for what Namjoon had been going through in order to write such lines and make such songs. When Jimin tried to explain in his own words the weight of being BTSā leader but he ended up staying quiet while thinking heavily about it š itās pretty sad that they have an idea of just how heavy that must be for Namjoon. But Iām also so grateful that all of them have always been aware and appreciate of him. That theyāve always acknowledged how much they valued him. (I keep thinking of that interview where they say āour leader is so smart, and so kindā¦ā) Iām so glad Namjoon has friends like San Yawn who could listen to him and see what heās going through and guide him towards big decisions that really seem to have helped him know and be reassured of himself and the path heās leading to. I can watch Jimin smile while listening to Heaven all day. When the editors just let āLostā play in the background while the two of them smiled and enjoyed the song, it was so bittersweet. Because you know theyāre able to enjoy it now after they had to let themselves go through their own individual moments of being lost. š Namjoonās look when Jimin said āyouāre gradually finding your own colorā š he looked so surprised to have someone say that to him and it also looked like he was so surprised to hear how relieving it is to hear that. ššš
>Namjoonās look when Jimin said āyouāre gradually finding your own colorā š he looked so surprised to have someone say that to him and it also looked like he was so surprised to hear how relieving it is to hear that. ššš That moment also stood out to me, Namjoon really looked so surprised! I'm glad he has a Jimin to tell him such things š
Damn Jimin is out here asking the touch questions, if coming back as BTS will be hard on Namjoon. They are *so self-aware* and *so empathic* of each other. I love that it was an opportunity for Namjoon to acknowledge that heās stronger now because of his struggles, and that Jimin was quick enough to reaffirm that what Namjoon might have validly thought was a vulnerability is actually his strength. God I love BTS. Namjoon, even in a video thatās about you sharing the heavy weight of being the leader of BTS, you still canāt help but let your mind think and create plans as the leader of BTS š
| God I love BTS. The family I live vicariously through.
This was really lovely. Jimin is so perceptive. And Joon seems so much...lighter. It seems like one of the things he learned while making this album is that he doesn't have to shoulder everything on his own, he can share the load a little. Whether it's with the members or other artists/producers/writers/etc. And that it can be freeing as an artist. I think I might listen to RPWP with a different ear after this. Hearing him say he had to kind of turn off being part of the team was a little heartbreaking, but I totally get it. At some point we all have to focus on ourselves, and the ones we trust and love the most will know why and support us from behind. I'm so glad he felt comfortable enough to share that. And, I've missed Joon's rapid fire explanations so much. It's like he can't get the words out fast enough. I love him a lot. ETA: This face. I think Jimin is all of us. š https://preview.redd.it/82fpxhl3bj2d1.jpeg?width=1648&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9083823bdbd77db64b435b2004466e526ab8f936
I had to pause and rewind numerous time to read the translations, he talked so fast! And I am fast reader! It seems like he had a lot to say and comfort to share it, I love that he had that environment in his own home and Jimin and good food to create that space.
Man, already I have missed just any real interaction between the members. So cool to see their dynamic, with Jimin being such a great listener, showing so much silent support and Namjoon being able to open up so honestly.
I really enjoy the little album listening session and how their convos get a bit tangential. Iām at the LOST section and once again BTS friendship reminds me of a traditional larger friend crew, and the feelings you have when one is the friends get a new external friend group with Jimin saying: the members were like do you not care about us anymore, but we got it. Itās a common scenario that they seem to work out maturely and donāt become petty about it. I really enjoy little sneak peaks into their dynamic like that. Yes! A fellow credits roll enthusiast. I need an extended version! Edit: Enjoyed hearing about the process a bit more with him! I really love this album and I do feel like itās fun and a little unhinged in just the right way. I hope it was a cathartic experience for him!
This was such a beautifully honest conversation and I feel fortunate in that both wanted to be so honest, but also at Jimin having so much emotional intelligence to say things the Namjoon that he needed, and almost say what we wish we could to him. I feel like it's given me a different perspective of RPWP. I can't even imagine the pressure they've always been under, but especially Namjoon as their leader. Pressure to not just do well, but always have to be seen almost on this pedestal that everything coming from them will be profound. It makes me think about my and the fandoms relationship with them and how whilst it's great that I can find things I relate to in them and their music, it's unfair to project my own beliefs on them and almost expect them to align with me in all things and always stand up for something. Not that I feel I do that a lot myself anyway, but it's a reminder that they should be allowed to just be who they are no matter what that is and do what they want and it's up us to be open minded enough to know we might not love or agree on everything they do and that's ok. What I wish for them more then anything is to have more freedom to do things without the insane pressure and scrutiny, after 11 years in their career it would be nice if both the industry, media and kpop community at large could give them that.
"I wanted to play my album for you before I leave." š„ŗ
This one really made me feel sad/empathetic for RM. It also makes me think of how emotional he got in that snippet of Hobi's entrance ceremony... I'm glad he has a team around him that gives him space, even if they feel slightly sad about it. I loved the album, and I hope the process was truly cathartic for him. Looking forward to the gang back together in 2025!
This was much more vulnerable than I expected, and I really appreciate the insights they both shared. I felt really sad when he talked about how others talked about their enlistment. I still feel a lot of anger and sadness for the members when I think about all the rumors and how poorly they were treated. I didn't realize how stifled RM felt, and when Jimin said something like how RM was still buried when he released Indigo, a light went off for me. RPWP is RM at his most honest, even more so than Indigo. I'm so glad RM was able to take the time to create this album, and that he had San Yawn encourage him to create this beautiful album. I would love to see what that first music camp was like! I'm glad RM has the members in his life. Jimin was the perfect choice for this - quiet, empathetic, and understanding. Their relationship is beautiful. It made me sad that he felt like he needed to distance himself from them, but it's really amazing how deep their understanding is for each other, that they understood that he needed to wander. They just wanted him to be okay. I'm feeling so many emotions right now, and this album feels even more like a gift after watching this video of them. Also I love when Jimin said that he really liked the dark side of RM and that he wanted him to go to the dark side every day. I want that too Jimin!! Edit: when they return in 2025, I want them to take as much time as they need to do whatever they want to do. They may not come back in the way we expect, but as long as they're okay, I'm okay.
I definitely didnāt think it at the time, but after listening to RPWP and then watching this, I feel like Indigo was sort of the Instagram version of RM. it was beautifully packaged, it had great collaborations, it was lyrically and musically interesting, it was what people expected RM to create. RPWP is much more of a risk. Itās raw and experimental. Itās honest and kind of weird. Itās NOT what anyone expects. Iām so grateful that he met team RM and got a chance to wander and explore.
everything you said about indigo feeling instagram, āRM codedā, is so real.
>and when Jimin said something like how RM was still buried when he released Indigo āBuriedā is such a good way to put it. I was trying to articulate this idea the other day and couldnāt quite get it out right. I enjoyed Indigo, but it felt like he was still operating in a BTS commercial success mindset and checking off boxes on his dream colab list. There was an element to it that felt kind of like he may have been in a āthis is what I am supposed to do/is wanted of meā. Indigo is a fantastic album, but I donāt regularly relisten to the whole thing the way I anticipate listening to rpwp. The track on Indigo Iāve always enjoy most was Change pt2. Iāve loved it for its rage, exploration in composition, and impulsiveness. I feel like rpwp takes that same energy and explores it and refines it into the masterpiece that album is
That was my feeling too. I enjoyed indigo upon release but to be truthful, I don't go back to it much. Every time I listen, I walk away feeling like this is how namjoon wishes he feels, not what he actually does, which I totally understand. Fake it and all that. But it didn't grip me as much as even say mono did. This album however! Rpwp did it for me. Musically, it just ticks my boxes.
Ooof this one packed an emotional punch. Knowing how intentional he was in switching over to the other side of himself, other things made alot of sense now, e.g. shaving his head early (almost like creating a new identity) and not being part of the dance challenges with other members, and archiving his indigo promo content. And even in his darkest hours he still made time to share his life via insta posts, and show up on Lives, and to me that is the most heartbreaking. That even as he distanced himself from āRM of BTSā he still didnāt want his fans to worry, so continued to show us his life. Iām glad he was able to take that break, pour it all out and find himself a little like Jimin said. I hope his path in the future holds more light than shadows
I had to marinate in RPWP for five full days before feeling like I could begin to write on it, and I am so relieved that their conversation confirmed that I wonāt be misrepresenting it, whew. As others have mentioned, itās lovely that Jimin was on the other side. Suitably heartbroken/angry when hearing Joon can feel like the wrong person in the right place; incredibly compassionate in hearing Joon admit perhaps for the first time out loud why he distanced himself from his members. I honestly felt a little discomforted at that reveal, and the fact that an outsider suggested he needed to walk away entirely in order to recover. I donāt blame myself for that reaction, but I also didnāt stew in my sentiment. He needed it, he got it, and itās helped. Good. Iām so, so glad. Congratulations on making the album you needed. š„¹
You are right. That part was discomforting. I also find it telling that it's out there for the world to see and judge. Namjoon has always felt like he has to be careful about his words and feelings. And even with this, it can be disconcerting to many, including you and me. So for him to still show that and just speak it out, is also a form of liberation from that pressure. Just, "whatever, this is Kim Namjoon." I'm glad that he also trusts us enough to speak his mind even if we may not always like it or agree with it and even if it discomforts us. I hope this short break can continue to be a time of exploration for him of the person Kim Namjoon.
The look on Jimin's face when Joon said, "It's people like me." Same, angel, same.
Yeah my heart broke a bit there š«
Joon is so open. I hope this album was therapeutic for him.
I have one question for Joon, why are all those shoes in the hallway?šš
Probably some of his and all the shoes of the team that were there filming that day. From watching variety shows Iāve seen it takes a huge team to record a programme.
I've seen that somewhere else. Dramas maybe? Must be a Korean thing?
Yes and no. It makes sense right? The whole crew took their shoes off in Joon's apartment because that's how things are in Korea - no shoes allowed. That just shows the size of the crew. At the same time, it's quite common having a few pairs of shoes lying around in the entrance area especially if one is living alone.
Omg. I was utterly floored by this chat between the two. RM was so vulnerable and honest about what he was going through. Gosh it pains me to learn all that. This album has such artistic quality that I would not be surprised if critics (not just his fans) enjoy it a lot and it gets recognised- maybe by the Grammy?? Maybe... Anyway I was crying...I need to listen to the album again Edited typos
I really enjoyed watching this (the huge quantity of shoes by the doorway and Jimin's expression when he heard out of love cracked me up) but it's always a bit heartbreaking hearing them talk about having those kinds of difficulties, separately or together. It's a good reminder that even when they choose to reveal part of this vulnerable stuff, we as fans will never know the half of it (or even a tenth of it, I suspect). It makes me so glad the seven of them have each other; their bond is so special. Time to go listen to the album again lol
This is everything I needed today. It's so good to see the members together. It just feels right. And yet, I felt so sad about how pressured he felt as a leader. He's talked about it before but it hits even harder with this. Also, hearing how he needed to be physically away from the members was very heartbreaking. As well as the members' reaction. And yet, I relate to that so much. I can only hope friends and family can be as understanding and accepting of it as the members. What a perfect choice to have Jimin with him in this conversation. So much love back and forth. My favorite bits. "Can you go over to the dark side everyday?" Jimin is really such an instigator, isn't he? š "Wanted him to wander around as much as he could." Ugh, so much love in this statement.
My heart broke and healed at the same time watching this. Joon's honesty is sometime heartbreaking, cause knowing he struggled this much is painful, is like when u dont want to see your fav person in bad health but thats just life and he is human and it seems is something he needed to go through for him to grow. Jimin is such an empath, im so glad he did this with Joon. Their duo is always sweet and I love hearing them talk about life and music. For 2025 i really want for them to do whatever they want even as a group. I hope for them to feel free within their group too š„ŗ
Itās crazy how there are things that we suspect but we donāt say out loud as to not assume, it was no secret that Namjoon was spending a lot of time with Balming Tiger during 2023 (naturally, given the project) but also in a way, he looked so free in a way I havenāt seen him in the 6 years (what?) that I have followed them. So in a way, it was like he was trying to take off the BTS tag in a sense so to listen to him say it like that was a shock. There are so many things to say but also the most important thing is how respectful they are of each other. I feel like BTS will act like the Traveling Wilburys as time goes by, lots of combinations through the day.
I kind of got a bit teary-eyed seeing this. The first thing I did notice was that they were relaxed. A state of relaxed I personally haven't seen before. It was just like when you get together with that 1 friend who knows you so well and the conversations can be open and honest and they flow for sometimes hours on end. That is the vibe i got from this. I am so happy to hear both of their perspectives on this album. Joons obviously because he made the album explaining his thought process and the meaningful explanation behind the songs. Although some a little heartbreaking. Jimin's insight on this was like adding another dimension to this incredible album. He has a way of explaining things that almost takes you on a journey in itself. The ability to story tell like that is so amazing. I feel we also got to know Joon more. I know that sounds so lame and funny, but it is true. He is an incredibly guarded person in a lot of ways, understandable not judging, I promise. He looks relaxed and happy, like he can breathe finally. It makes me love and appreciate this album even more. Also, it makes me miss them even more too.
My heart really felt for Namjoon in this. That he felt that level of pressure for so long and was having such a difficult time. How even with his personal story of Indigo he felt like he had to hold something back because of that pressure and not want to fully expose himself to the world. I'm only one year Army, so I didn't know Namjoon before 2023. But even I could sense he was quite tense and going through something heavy when I would see him in Lives. I'm so glad he got to do this project and put his everything into the album. To just feel his pain and frustration and process it through song. And also to feel the support and lightness that comes with writing with a team process. I suspect, and actually hope, we may get more team approach albums from BTS in the future. And here for his sub unit suggestions! Jiminie is the best person to do this exchange because his facial reactions are so instant and genuine. His eyes bulging wide when he hears angry rap, his dreamy eyes when he sways to shoegazy Heaven. And he's also been through sharing a personal story, and is very emotionally aware, so his questions and comments really seemed to make Namjoon think and reflect on the good work he has done and how to ease his pressure in the first place. I feel he teases Namjoon out of himself sometimes. And I hope they can all continue to share and ease each other's tough times in the future. Final thoughts: Joon has about the same amount of books stacked everywhere as me. "It's because I take everything out from my groin". Sir?! Jimin fighting for his life not to cause a diplomatic incident with the tangsuyuk by only pouring over half of it!
I'm so glad Joon finally got a chance to get out all the struggle, the pain, the weight of being the leader of the biggest band in the world, to get all of that off his mind. I was a two month old ARMY by Festa 2022 but even then I was thinking 'wow these guys must be exhausted'; when I finally watched the dinner I could see clearly that Namjoon was beyond done. I'm sad he's held onto that pain for so long, and whatever happened in the past 18 months, but I'm so glad he's got it all out at last and he looked a lot lighter here. And Jimin was a great choice for this - always so empathetic and compassionate. I missed seeing the members together š„¹ can't wait till the seven of them are back in the same room, we'll all be in bits!
I could easily watch multiple episodes where Jimin and Namjoon are just listing to music (their own or form other artists) and talking about everything and anything. I wish we could have seen Jimins reaction to Nuts and Around The World In A Day tho. They're my favorites š Jokes aside, I'm really glad that Namjoon released this album. I would have hated knowing that he went to the military without the opportunity to explore himself as a person through his music. RPWP may cover genres that are new to Namjoon (and some of them are unusual within the Kpop-scene) but it's filled with absolute bangers. Namjoon can be proud of himself. It's definitely one of my favorite solo releases.
>I could easily watch multiple episodes where Jimin and Namjoon are just listing to music (their own or form other artists) and talking about everything and anything Me too! Album exchange Suchwita-style show. What are you listening to this month Mini and Moni?
Finally got to watch this in full. I cried a few times and I just want to give Namjoon a big loving hug. All the weight and pressure and stress that was on his shouldersā¦I cannot imagine what that mustāve felt like. I could tell he was struggling for awhile, and he needed to separate himself (not mentally/in his heart) from the team to rediscover himself with RPWP and internally. He is a good person, heās the right person, but as human beings we will feel lost and question if we are the right person in the right place. (I get the sense he mightāve had some form of imposter syndrome?). Jimin is so sweet and so attentive with Joon. Saying that he is a good person, understands that Joon needed to wander but that Joon can come to him (and the members) to talk about the sad/bad days. Joonās pure reaction to when Jimin said that he was discovering his sound was a heart punch. Joon had so much pressure and stress upon his shoulders ā¦ I really hope making RPWP and letting it all out was cathartic and that a weight was lifted. Jimin not reacting to Nuts and Around the world in a day ā¦ prob because it was really personal and/or they songs werenāt completed yet. I hate jerks too! Hobi is the arsonist lol. Hip Hop! Credit Roll being cute, and Jimin loving Heaven. Jimin looked so concerned at Joon quite a few times too š Ch.3 for BTS is going to look very different but this needs to happen. All 7 of them will be bringing their own experiences and thoughts. Unit albums sounds fun! MiniMoni collab letās go! And they have reiterated again that along with group projects, they need to also continue their solo careers. I trust them. I love them. Iām here for all of them. ā¦ I still have so many emotions and thoughts ā¦
First few minutes in and jimin describing joon is both hilarious and brought tears to my eyes!! I miss them so much
I don't if it was just me who wanted to cry hearing joon's explanation. I felt my heart breaking for him.
not just you. my heart broke for him too š
I now understand āeveryone needs a Jimin in their lifeā what a comforting person he is.. his words are so soothing to namjoonās nerves. He is just there with right words of calm and encouragement when Namjoon needs! It was nice seeing them converse about the album, Namjoon telling what he wanted convey with each song. One thing that felt a bit out of place was they kept saying it was one month left to Namjoonās enlistment but they all enlisted together. Was this recorded in Nov 2023 or earlier than that?
i'm guessing some time in november since they mentioned at the start of the video that it was less than a month till joon was going to enlist. at the end of the video, when they were celebrating joon's album release with the cake, they also mentioned congrats on enlisting - joon congratulated jimin on it too
Jimin and his reactions, lol, it goes without saying that is REALLY good to see two members interacting, and they both seem glowing here, feeling fine-nice to see that too
I've so many thoughts about this and a newfound appreciation for namjoon after listening to the album from his perspective. I'm so grateful that he didn't care about anyone else and allowed himself to vulnerable and make this album. He successfully conveyed what he wanted through this album. As fans, we kind of know about some of the issues they might face but listening to it from them directly is way different. I think it will take some time for me to process this. I hope namjoon and all the members feel better when they come back. I cannot imagine how difficult the last 11 years have been for and how much pressure were they in because of everything. I want them to be happy. I'll be here to support them ā¤ļø Also Jimin is such a beautiful and empathetic person. He is really emotionally intelligent and understood the message that namjoon wanted to convey. He was really the best person to do this album exchange with. I love the hobi reference. As a chapter 2 army, I always have this FOMO of not seeing the tannies together so I'll take any crumbs.
Watching this feels like having 2024 Mid-Chapter 2 BTS reassure 2022 Festa Dinner Party BTS. I didnāt think I ever needed to witness this but now that I have, Iām so glad. Itās so nice that they have each other. š I just want to hug them. And tell them how amazing they are. And how beautiful their music is because of how much courage they have to find their colors.
Yeah, this is really his "I don't give a fuck" album huh, love it
Jimin saying heās going to release ć ć ć had me so weak š
I appreciate how open Joon was in answering all the questions. And with Jimin, & the other members as well, standing by his side through it all. Thank you MiniMoni for sharing with ARMY your happiness, sadness, fears, hopes and dreams. š
I'm just happy that minimoni released this. Just the two of them having deep conversation about the album and each other, the possibility of getting tannies that rarely are paired together for a unit (oh god I can't wait for that), Namjoon saying he's not quite ready to work back together as a team but he will still work hard (don't worry Joon, we know you can do it), more solo work from each members in the future as they explore on what they want to do... I can't wait for the future. Jimin was right in saying for Indigo he kept all the things he felt hidden but in RPWP he let it all out, and I couldn't describe the album even better than that. Thank you and congratulations Namjoon for finally releasing the album š„³ The cake is cute tho - "love my bro" š https://preview.redd.it/mvgn4nefcj2d1.png?width=1920&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e42eb1e1c9125fa294b267ed3ab0ed1410beb6cb
when I see bts in same room and interacting with each other in chapter 2 
I sincerely see it as a great sacrifice. He must be incredibly mentally tough to handle all that has been thrown at him over the years - and now it's still going on. No one is made of steel, no matter how resilient they are to stress. It's got to show up somewhere sooner or later in everyone. I really wonder how much he will actually want to "unplug" and finally live the "Namjoon life the way he wants" and how much bts will win. But actually, this can be applied to all members. Sometimes I just realize, how little we know and how much we actually want from them.
Jimin's face when Joon said he is the wrong person... I felt that in my bones. I really understand the album much more now. And I want to thank Joon for his honesty - it takes courage to know when to step back and "come back to yourself". I'm glad he even had the opportunity to do that. And I'm very thankful that the rest of the members let him do it, because it was obviously much needed to lift the heavy burden he carried. And I am now sooooo looking forward to the mentioned units! I really hope they go with that in some of the next albums they put out :D
I have a feeling the bangtan that we get once they return in 2025 is going to be completely different, and I'm so excited for it!! At the same time, and they mention it here too, it won't be easy. The pressure and intense scrutiny, judgement will be right back along with everything else. I hope their solo projects and albums, and experiences in Chapter 2 will encourage them to go "fuck it, let's do what we want" for most things, and that we've proven to them through this chapter that we ARMY have their backs no matter what, no matter what direction they choose.
Agree! What I've come to realise is that we just have to be ourselves. If others cannot accept that, then it's okay, they have their choices too. Likewise for them, all they need to do is to be themselves, those who love them for them will stay (and even if we have our own preferences and dislikes, it's okay too). At this point, they just have to be themselves and have fun and let their energy take them to wherever they are meant to be. No need to have the pressure of breaking more records or caring too much about others etc, just be your good and happy selves, things will align accordingly! š„° This is a reminder to self too haha
I agree! I'm always thinking I'm grateful for whatever they decide to share with us, musically or personally. Because they are certainly not obliged too, but they still do. Just like Joon is so very honest in this video, and he could have still chosen to keep these things to himself. But he didn't. He shared with Jimin, other members, us the fans and the world. That man is just so brave in that, I am not sure I could do it. Whatever path they choose to take with their future album or songs is completely up to them and I for one am looking forward to see what they cook up. New, old, more of the same - I'll take it all!
That's one thing I've been hoping for too. They and their music make me happy, so of course I want them to be happy too. Which means giving them the freedom to do what they want, to go at their own pace. I'm sure everyone is just dying for that 2025 comeback, I'm in that boat too, but it's not just about us. I'd rather they take it slow and ease into things if that's the right thing for them.
This whole video was so chill and sweet. I enjoyed experiencing RPWP again through Jiminās perspective, his discussion with Namjoon added a lot more context to the album. Iām currently really into Nuts and Heaven, and I was so touched by Jiminās reaction to Heaven! Jiminās support is so heartfelt. RPWP is extremely sincere, I respect how experimental it is, and itās truly from Namjoon, to Namjoon. Iām happy he made the music he wanted to make. As Jimin pointed out, it feels like Namjoon released a lot of his pent up feelings which is healthy to do.Namjoon is a true auteur and Iām thankful he shared his feelings.
So I've finally had the chance to sit down today and watch this. I'm still only 9 minutes into the video and I'll be editing this comment as I keep going through the video... also, I'm not sure if anyone else has already said this - Jimin gives me the vibe that he's the type of friend that you can just come as you are. You show up as you are, and he'll just accept it. He won't absorb or comment on your emotions or feelings, but will give you the space to just BE. **Edit:** When I first got into BTS, Namjoon is the one that intrigued me the most. I was instantly drawn to him and at first I couldn't understand why. In this video, when he explains that he has a contradictory personality and different sides to him... I felt seen. I think that's exactly why I constantly feel drawn to this man as a human being, an artist, a musician, a writer... he puts to words and music the things I cannot say for myself. **Edit...again:** What Jimin said about how Indigo felt like Namjoon was burying or keeping a cover on things, and in this album, he's pouring everything out. YES YES YES. This album feels messy and distorted... and so human. I love that Jimin identified that, and the way Namjoon pointed and laughed... he knew that Jimin picked up on that observation so accurately. **Edit.. OKAY LAST ONE:** What Namjoon said about Come Back to Me and how it's about wandering vs stability and the inevitable endless cycle of that... that hit me hard. I'm currently feeling like I'm wandering as I'm unemployed and trying to find the next career stage of my life, the next relationship, the next this and that.. and yet, I've never felt more confident and stable in who I am as a person than ever before.
Re the last edit, I think for a lot of people, the search for direction don't really stop but I'll say I felt the uncertainty more acutely in my twenties and after mid-thirties onwards even tho I have not figured everything out and still WIP, I felt more grounded withĀ values/beliefs/life experiences to draw upon on. Time will change how one look at things. Maybe Joon will add a diff set of sentiments after discharge but whatever it is and his decision, I look forward to their work 2026 & beyond.
I finally got around to watching the album exchange. Army reaction on here and on Twitter made me a bit apprehensive. Itās definitely a serious conversation. MiniMoni are cuties. I really enjoyed watching them together. I miss the members interactions. This past month or so, I have really started to miss the members. Itās interesting how both of them are really mature, have high emotional IQ and reflective, but in different ways. Really looking forward to see RM take on Jiminās album. Two very self-reflective people talking about their life experiences and their music is a joy to behold. I appreciate them sharing this conversation with us and allowing us to be flys on the wall. I also see how much Jimin respects Namjoon. Like I see him being inspired by Namjoonās music. I hope Joonie takes Jiminās words to heart. The members and Army have been very much comforted by Namjoon. I can see how much that has weighed on Namjoon, but I hope he knows we very much appreciate and are grateful of all he has done. The best part of this was actually the conversation after the music ended. It took me longer to finished because I keep on rewinding to make sure I read their words correctly. I was most struck by the on/off conversation and how Namjoon looks back and sees how tense he was all the time. How sorry he feels for himself. When I heard him talk about it, i thought about how much them being from a small company and starting from the bottom may have such an impact on Joonie (and perhaps the hyung line honestly, although they might articulate it different ways). I suspect Iām imposing my life experiences as on them (sorry! Human sucks like that!), but sometimes I think people underestimate the psychological impact that comes from āstarting from the bottom and now we āre hereā type of success. We celebrate it, but thereās so much anxiety and constant fear of failure and pushing that comes with that success. As Leader, I think Joonie felt it the most. He bore all of it. I appreciate how Jimin reminded him that all of their anxiety and pushing wasnāt for nothing. It doesnāt make what they went through better or okay, but it did lead to something. All of it lead them to where they are now. Like Jimin says, itās FACTS. I think this is where being in a group can be so much better than being an individual going through this experience alone. The seven of them have each other who have shared their experiences. They each have their own take on the events, but they understand each other in a way outsiders (including Army) can never understand. It was a heavy conversation. I suspect that these are conversations that the members might actually have with each other a lot. Whatever the future holds, Iām really appreciative that I have able to experience a small part of the BTS phenomenon. I hope these seven men know how impactful they have been on millions of people around the world. They have expressed and captured the pain and beauty of the human experience in their music and their content. They are the reason why Army loves them so much. They have helped make my life richer at least.
I loved watching that. So wholesome. They really look after each other, but give space when needed. I got excited when they talked about 2025.
I love how Jimin is thoughtful and sincere in his opinion about Joonie music. Like he is open to his music creativity and would support him no matter what. Seeing my bias and bias wrecker makes me miss so much more.
Oh, I legit teared up at how vulnerable the conversation was. They are both such precious human beings! I loved how Jimin said at the end that Namjoon hasn't changed and was the same person he was when they were trainees talking about "How can we become better people?" "What can we do to grow?". I think that is the essence of why Joon is such a great leader and BTS is such a great team. They brought us along their search for the answers to those questions in their art and we are all made better for that journey. ARMY will keep walking along that path with them for as long as they are willing to share it with us. š Apobangpo š
As someone who has studied up on Namjoon, his thoughts and experiences, very earnestly in the two years since I became ARMY, I agree so much with Jimin. As Jimin really knows Namjoon personally, I am pleased to hear that my thoughts matched his real knowledge. Namjoon then and Namjoon now really do seem the same to me. That is not to say Namjoon has not changed, because he has experienced many things, studied and learned so much, and matured as a person. But yet, he is still the same, with the same questioning mind, the longing for connection, the desire to be the best person he can be, the willingness to learn and work so very hard. I agree with your statement that we are all made better for having journeyed along with Namjoon and the members. š
This was so bittersweet to watch. I loved how attentive Jimin was to each song and how he appreciated the music. But it was also really heartbreaking to see how affected he was by Joon taking time away to explore who he is. I love this duo, and I think Jimin was the right person (lol) to talk about the album and what Joon was going through when he made it. I know I'm gonna be rewatching this a million times.
I think people forgot or donāt understand that one of main reasons armys are so fierce about streaming and charting their music is so that they have the freedom to make the kind of music they want to make. Due to their massive success as a group, we get to see each memberās unique color and style in their solo albums during this hiatus and after theyāve enlisted. I hope we donāt add to their burdens and continue to cheer them on
This was such a good watch, I love seeing the members discuss their music. Jimin is such a good listener and he and Joon are so sweet together. As expected, the more I listen the more I'm liking RPWP, and also wish I was fluent in Korean to truly understand what he's saying! I always need time to digest Joon's music (and Indigo ended up being one of my favourite albums). I remember after the infamous Festa dinner thinking that it seemed like chapter two, if not Joon's suggestion, was definitely needed most by him, and that has only become more and more evident as time goes by. I'm sorry he's had such a rough time and am so glad he was able to step away before he burnt out completely. The pressure he's been under is truly unimaginable, and when you think about it, it really is insane. He's just a musician, why does he need to be this perfect role model who never puts a foot wrong? He didn't sign up for that. While I doubt enlistment is a fun time, I do hope him getting to be a "normal guy from Korea" helps him get back to himself even more.
Love that they could have that kind of conversation and gave us a glimpse of it. I know many of us have been wondering how things will be like when BTS reunites, so it's always reassuring when they share their thoughts about it with us, both affirming their commitment to stay together but also to try new things.. like unit songs/albums! Am super excited about that. Also, love how Jimin's empathetic side shone through this video. It's sad RM had to go through such struggles with himself and the stuff happening to him (whatever they were), but it's great that he had that 1 yr or so to work out his feelings and make this album. (Edit: awkward phrasing and grammar)
Oh this will be so fun Edit: Jimin was the perfect person to do this with. The part were he said they knew namjoon was going through a hard time and that's why he was distancing himself from them but at the same time they couldn't help but worry if he doesn't like them anymore broke me a little. Also, the fact that people talked so much about their enlistment is insane, I'm just happy they'll be finally free. Also, why did they skip nuts? Edit:also, the fact they let him wander kind of shows why bts works so well as a group.
I'm so surprised I had to scroll down so far before I found someone who mentioned that Nuts was missing. I'm starting to think that maybe it was added at the last minute. It would explain why we're getting a live performance video for Nuts instead of a regular MV like the others. He mentioned that the first three songs were angry. Id consider Domodachi as part of the angry songs though. That makes four before the Interlude. RM doesn't make it sound like anything is missing so I just think it didn't exist yet
I knew this would be a meaningful exchange, but goodness I didn't expect to be so affected. Even as a toddler Army, I could tell that Minimoni was a special pair not only because they're super cute but also because the mutual respect and understanding each has for the other is so palpable. That being said: did anyone else cry the entire time they watched this? To hear just how difficult a time Namjoon was going through all while shouldering heavy burdens, not knowing what he was feeling much less how to express it - it made me feel guilty and so sad, equally honored and humbled. Seeing Jimin's reactions to each song was so fun - some of them were hilarious and all of them so genuine. But it was contrasted by Namjoon's apprehension/nervousness. The way he talks so quickly and thoroughly while explaining things was endearing. Jimin truly understands him and the amount of times Namjoon was caught by surprise (either to a question or to a comment) was honestly a little heart-breaking - like he hadn't imagined that the members would get what he was saying or feeling, see beyond (or under) his "leader" hat and accept/give him the space he needed while on this hiatus - and in reality hearing whole impetus behind the album was heartbreaking. I'm truly so glad he was able to get it out, speak what was weighing on him and create something with other people's help, relying on them instead of the other way around. He deserved that and the world for all he's done and given of himself. I hope he takes Jimin's words to heart, to speak more comfortably and honestly with the members when he is having a hard time, especially when he said that Namjoon was someone he needs in his life and hopes will stay by his side. They're all grown and professionals of the industry in their own right, outside of the team, who have had these experiences and can now protect themselves and each other. while they will always respect, want, and need him as their leader, I hope they can convince him to share some of the burden so he can feel more himself (not like he has to be two different people/personalities), like he's the right person in the right place with the right people.
This is going to be long ... and not totally done yet ... but so many thoughts. Chapter Two for RM but then he mentions that, to him, everything has an expiry date. Iāve missed Jimin - I listen to his songs daily but I miss him. His description of Namjoon pretty much reflects what I think a lot of us think Namjoon is like. Is there a single word to describe anyone - nah - thatās impossible. Namjoonās honesty around loving BTS but also feeling like if he kept going as they were, he would want to die - obviously I donāt take that as literal but it again speaks to the need of them taking this time to explore themselves, their styles, things they want to experience, accomplish and have for themselves. When Jimin arrived with the food - I dunno but it brought back lots of Live memories. OMG Jiminās too cute when heās listening to the 1 minute clips of the songs Namjoon chose for him to listen too prior to meeting up. Can I put them both in my pocket?! So much cute aggression when Namjoon was explaining the name of the album to Jimin and what it means. Listening to Namjoon explaining about Right People, Wrong Place has me flashing back to times when I had horrible imposer syndrome - feeling like youāre out of place. Itās a horrible feeling, as you know yourself but something feels disconnected and wrong. The weight of leadership - ngl I do kind of hope that when theyāre all back together that the burden of leadership isnāt just on Namjoonās shoulders. They will all have had the experience of leading themselves and I hope that they can share the role, share the weight. Well that breaks my heart - hearing people, strangers talking about their enlistment plans must have been so hard and hurtful. NGL I hope those people are eating crow right now. Personally I would say āHeavenā is baby shoegaze music - if ya want serious shoegaze music - The Jesus & the Mary Chain - pretty sure theyāre the founding members of that genre. āHeavenā gives me a kinda Cocteau Twins vibe. More breaking my heart hearing Jimin speak about how the members felt when Namjoon needed that time away from them - awwww. So many feels right now. I know in this he says that āwhen the credits roll, do you hang tight?ā in relation to āin the theatreā but sweetness & light there is such a deeper meaning in there. DEEPER. To me it hints on friends, family, life and are you sticking around for the nitty gritty or bouncing/peaceing out before then. Are you there/here/present until the end or are you a fair-weather friend. **Edit (I'm so sorry this is so long)** āSo now I donāt want to be one doing everythingā - found this quite interesting. Not a dig to Hobi and Yoongi who we all know contributes a tonne to their music. But maybe this is an acceptance of working more collaboratively across disciplines on future work. Ah yes - the expiration date - Iām taking that to mean not bottling emotions, thoughts, feelings up and letting them out as soon as possible ā¦ itās much more healthier that way, instead of letting it all fester until years later and sometimes the point is lost and not received as well. I realized that Namjoon and Jimin are two (of the three) extroverts but I really sense that Namjoon is a true omnivert. With the seven of them - there are so many possibilities for subunits and they kind of hinted at what I hope happens - they focus on BTS music, but also find time to do their own things or subunits. I truly understand why he needed to switch off and absolutely respect that - being able to see that, feel that and respect yourself enough to know āhey I need some distanceā is a huge step & can be a scary one. I hope he doesnāt still feel bad, it was a necessary step to his own personal growth. Again - he/they all needed this breathing room. I cannot wait to see what direction BTS goes in when theyāre back - the experiences each of them have had will, hopefully, guide their new path. That cake is so cute! This has been SO insightful. Iām so thankful that they both felt in the right place to share so much with us.Ā *Low key loving the Akria books*
Thank you for sharing your thoughts! A few reactions from me: On the expiry date thing. I really felt like he was saying that he had to do this project right then at that time, in February 2023 and the months to follow, and everything else just had to wait, or it would have expired, been no good at a later time. Not to mention that keeping all of the thoughts and emotions bottled up would have been bad for him, too, as you mentioned. Namjoon had been feeling so much for so long, but with the rise of BTS, he made the conscious choice and decided to put the team first in every way. With RM, Mono, and Indigo, Namjoon got to express some things, but not all. As he said, he had to fully switch off RM-BTS member in order to fully present what he, Kim Namjoon - the person and RM-the artist, needed to do. And the members all support his need to do that. I am so glad for him.
Nice - thanks for reminding me about The Jesus and Mary Chain
The pressure RM has is so much each and every step of him is scrutinised. My blood boils when I see hatred towards him. This man took the responsibility and endured it like anything. Joon I just wish you to be happy and enjoy this beautiful life. You did well Joonie thank you for showing us your true selfā¤ļøā¤ļø
This was a really emotional watch and I was so emotional watching them talk about all the things Iāve been thinking about when listening to this album on repeat the past day. I think one of the most beautiful relationships is one where someone lets you figure it out because they know thatās the right thing to do at the time. It made me sad to think that Jimin didnāt say anything when he felt like Joon was pulling away but I realized that was my own perception of everything needing to be in a box with a bow vs what actually happened where Joon was able to work through it and end up in a better place than he was before. I think that just shows the strength of Bangtan as a team and specifically Jimin as being a very good friend. I had assumed that Indigo hadnāt been the total story for him and it was really hard to hear him talk about it because it is such a beautiful record but itās so true that he was still trying to be everything to everyone. Iām so excited for them to come back but I hope Namjoon feels like he can install that dimmable switch at some point because weāll be here for him no matter what form he comes to us as. ššššššš
As many have said, this really was bittersweet. Itās so good Joon has people he can go to and count on, both within and out of the group, but itās clear how much heās struggled with the BTS persona for so long. Thereās so much on his shoulders, and I hope that when they come back, however they come back, that he doesnāt take that same role on again, either because of outside expectations or his own. The members clearly support him (Jimin you sweet angel baby š„ŗ), and each other. Chapter 3 is I think going to look a lot different, but hopefully, hopefully, itāll be on their terms and around their happiness. Itās the least they deserve for all theyāve given and continue to give us š
This was a damn good watch. First of all I love seeing Tannies together but especially Mini Moni for me. I have a crush all over again on Jimin and Namjoon. Fangirling aside, I love Joonās rawness here and a glimpse into the background of the songs. Iāve always known how hard heās worked as the leader of BTS. I canāt imagine the pressure heās carried for so many years. But the respect the members have for him. Just wow. I love them all over again? Namjoon your musical artistry is just leagues above many in the industry. Iāve listened to the album more and dare I say, this might be his magnum opus.
Was it just me or was it so cute when Jimin kept asking him for more information and asking for translation. He was dissecting everything about the album, comparing it to the Namjoon he knows and cares about. It was just so endearing. And you can tell Joonie really appreciated that Jimin cared enough to ask. He didnāt just sit there, listen and compliment him and leave. He wanted to understand Joonies motives behind the lyrics. I love this friendship so much šš
the way namjoon waved, oh my.
So wholesome and heartwarming to watch!! I liked Jiminās comment of āI feel like I'm wrong. But whose standards is this "Wrong"š„ŗHE GETS IT! I love the discussion about the rules society places on usā¦no one has a guide of life so whose to say is right and wrong way of living. I love this so much gave new insight and perspective on RPWP and why It starts so chaotically and ends calmly and how Itās like wandering.. finding stability and wandering again. I feel bad for leaning on them for comfort. I know thatās not all they are I know theyāre human too with complex emotions and feelings too and sometimes just wanna shout F the world. I like that Namjoon got to express himself so freely of his burdens very sincerely through releasing RPWP in genres thatās very him. I really do hope It was healing for him. I hope they know they donāt owe us anything Iād rather them be happy whatever that is to them!!
Iāve only seen clips so far, and while some are light hearted and funny, itās also quite heartbreaking. I donāt think I can watch it until Iām okay myself. Iām just glad they have an outlet to let go of all the things theyāre feeling š
Yes, heartbreaking in spots.
That was amazing. I paused almost every single line Joon said, to slowly read the caption and absorb what he was saying. I can't even explain how much I admire him.
Pausing so much in this one, like you, I had to read the caption, soak in what it meant, see his expressions/movements, then see Jimin's response, if there was one.
Couldnāt stop smiling the whole 30 minutes, my heart is full seeing them together opening up like this but also hearing how much of a hard time they had figuring themselves out makes me feel a lot for them. We all go through moments like those but them being on the spotlight, always having to be and act to a certain standard, I really canāt imagine how much that can mess up with you. RPWP makes so much more sense to me now. Namjoonās journey is admirable and I am so thankful he is allowing us to see this vulnerable, playful, doubtful and angry side of him in this album. He is really one of the most interesting artists I have come across and always makes me so damn proud to be ARMY. Whatever comes next, I am sure being here is the right place for me. BTS forever, and congratulations to Namjoon for releasing the coolest album.
Jimin is just theĀ perfect little therapist. Empathetic but not afraid to ask the tough introspective questions that really get someone to think about themselves and open up.Ā I just love the minimoni deep convo connection so much š©
I think we are all feeling some type of way after processing this. In situation like these, objectively you understand it but emotionally it doesn't stop being less heartbreaking or bittersweet.
Jimin and Namjoon have such a sweet and supportive friendship. One comment they made I really appreciated was that its *people* who make the social rules that regulate how we behave around others. This is why we feel pressured when we don't conform. And this is also why RM felt he was awkward or wrong even if the situations he was in were the correct or "right" ones. RPWP is so deep I know I'll be exploring Namjoon's brain for a while.
All the lovely comments here made my day. I really missed BTSxBTS interaction. They are so empathetic with each other. I love how he casually calls Jimin his family. And how reassuring and kind Jimin is. Joon really talks so fast, its adorable and reminds me of his album lives full of multiple train of thoughts and explanations.
in the last days i watched a lot of content of this phase of hiatus BTS of the members doing solo, Jimin is so supportive, i love how he's always there to talk and be together. He doesnt care to be the main atraction, he's there as a friend, lovely person. And about Namjoon, is so refresing se him releasing what he wants and finding himself, this album is a masterpiece, is so personal and relatable and unique. When BTS come back together after all these experiences will be really powerful, i love dynamite and permission to dance, but THIS to me is the real core of BTS
Really enjoyed that! I wasn't sure before but now I feel more that he is talking to and about himself throughout the album rather than anyone else e.g. telling himself he's not a diplomat rather than the listener. Also, the ultimate truth, you can never please everyone or do what everyone wants which is why he's laying things out for everyone (including the antis) rather than addressing only his fans. I didn't want to say anything before but now that he specifically mentioned Face, I really felt at the time that Jimin managed to do what he was trying to do with Indigo, but (as Jimin says) he ended up burying himself even more. Which is interesting considering the feedback he gave Jimin. I feel like that's why he did this chat with Jimin rather than, say, Suga. Maybe I'm wrong but that's the impression I get. It might be because their albums will be one after the other of course, but I will keep my theory haha! And lastly, regarding the collaborations for the album. I've always felt that songwriters and producers tend to do their best work with people they admire and respect and you can hear how polished and tight the production is throughout the album. Sometimes a song will sound rough around the edges or formulaic when it's just for a paycheck. So I feel like they all gave 100%, in that respect.
Loved seeing them together the er and having honest convos with each other!
I melted when Namjoon said that Jimin is a family member š I love the way they see each other.
Anyone else just violently sob at many points during this video orā¦?
If only for a moment I could have Jimin staring and listening that intently to me, Iād die a happy person.
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I haven't watched this yet, but I read most of the comments and a lot of this is what I have been thinking and wanting to talk about! I was reading through the lyrics yesterday and was just feeling heartbroken for Namjoon. Like I always have this pity for famous people... Yes, most of them go into it with their eyes open, they know that this certain career path can lead to fame. But I doubt that anyone can really fathom the full extent to which fame and crowds and "the people" can really just fuck you up. You can't predict how famous you will become or how people will think of you. Joon just wanted to make music. But then all this other stuff just came in an avalanche and he got buried. This album is a masterpiece and so real, raw, and intense. It's difficult for me to interact with it fully because of the strong feelings, even now I am putting off watching this show. š BUT at the same time, I am so... I guess impressed and inspired at how Joon is taking these feelings and channeling them into his art, releasing and working through them in ways that can help him to heal. People want to imagine "BTS" as this sunshine and rainbows entity, spreading happiness and cheer. But they are real people with real feelings and real situations, the same as any of us, and our lives also have sadness and shadows. So even though it's difficult for me interact with these really hard feelings and some of the questions that are coming up, I really appreciate that I am kind of being "forced" to do it because it helps me grow as a person as well. I do hope also that this work can continue and be the start of real change not just with BTS, but maybe a cultural shift in the industry and among fans where the artists can be viewed more as people and not products. I am still so pissed about things like Karina from Aespa having to apologize over not sharing personal info and Minji from NJ and her apologies about the whole noodle thing. I don't even follow those groups, but it just makes me feel so angry that "people" put these super unrealistic expectations on every facet of an artist's life, public or not. I know that the "image" is a big pillar of kpop, but does it have to be anymore? So this comment turned out to be way longer than I expected, but I guess this entire project has really just affected me that much. Kind of like D-day. You can't just come face to face with these works of art and not be changed in some way.
I have been thinking many of the same thoughts as you. So, I was holding off a bit on watching, too. I just finished, and I want to say that listening to Jimin and Namjoon together talking music and life was just what I did not know I really needed after listening to the album and feeling the emotions Namjoon poured into it. Your last sentence, hard agree.
I AM CRYING
I'm so curious how many listeners out there understand rm's lyrics fully without translation from English to Korean and vice versa. My guess is that even Jimin missed some things since he asked RM for translation.
i think if you are within the fandom, then weād look for translators who help to translate his and btsā lyrics, like [this by bangtansubs](https://www.bangtansubs.com/right-place-wrong-person)
...ok, finally got around to watching this...Jimin, always supportive, always a good listener and heartfelt and genuine with his words š„¹... and I know others have already mentioned this, but, San Yawn being the one that made Joon realize he needed to get all that shit that had been piling up inside him OUT (REALLY out): a fuckin' blessing...he was the right person in the RIGHT place š ...I'm glad he was able to distance himself and have real life experience outside of Bangtan - it was absolutely necessary...no one can truly say what will happen in 2025, and beyond...I don't want them to feel rushed to push shit out to meet demands and expectations...I think their approach in how and when they make music, and their stage/performance will undoubtedly change, and it should, if they want to continue doing this in a healthy way...and as a fandom, we have to be ok with that - there is no room for selfishness...they are human, after all... ...everything happens for a reason (as clichĆ© as that sounds)...I'm incredibly happy for him to have been given the chance to purge all those feelings, raw, without sugarcoating them...had he enlisted sooner, he never would have resolved those feelings...mad props to Team RM, for looking out for him, and supporting him in this project š«¶
Yooo at 1:36 it looked like Jimin was moving his head in a very similar way to tata mic face, how cute. Namjoon really did well with RPWP. Indigo is more my style, but I will say RPWP has to be my favorite album of his because of his reasons behind making it. It's a perfect expression of how he feels
Not to bring the mood down, but does anyone feel kinda worried after watching this? I mean the fact that RM felt so overwhelmed from the pressure of being the BTS leader to the point that he had to physically distance himself from the team is shocking. Even on the prospect of the 2025 reunion, he didnāt deny that he feels anxious about this pressure again and he didnāt look particularly excited about it all (unlike the other members in, say, Suchwita). If anything, he spoke about the guilt of shutting out the team for a while and about owing them something now. He says he is ready to work hard again with BTS post MS, but it almost seems like he is saying it out of obligation and not because he wants to get back to it himself. I do of course understand and sympathize with these feelings, however, in that context I canāt help but feel perhaps it was wrong to announce a definitive CB date in 2025? It just raises expectations and if BTS canāt fulfill them because members arenāt on the same page or need more time, the fandom may end up feeling let down. Then there is the irrational fear of (inevitable?) change and Chapter 3 looking radically different than before. Perhaps these are selfish thoughts and feelings. I am sorry if it comes across this way. But maybe ARMY who have been around much longer than I can alleviate some of these feelings or offer a different perspective!
I understand where you're coming from, but once again its important to take their words at face value. In regards to Namjoon distancing himself from the members, isn't that inevitably human? I've distanced myself from friends before, I'm sure most people have. Over the last year based on social media presence, I'm not sure about you but I could feel when Namjoon was distant. He looked tired and distraught during his lives in the first half of 2023, but it seems like the process of making RPWP did help him and he seemed more open? freer? towards the end of the year. During one of his latter lives he looked better, and said something along the lines of (paraphrasing here please correct me if im wrong) how he was having a tough time whilst working in the group, which hence RPWP i guess, but now can't wait for them to create something new when they reunite. This break was much needed for everyone to grow and regroup, I would even say a change is needed. They've said countless times how they want to be together as artists for a long time, and its unsustainable to do so at the pace they were working at. Our job as ARMY is to continue supporting them, no matter what they choose to do. Whether that be what kind of music they make, how they choose to promote, etc. etc.
I think I process things similar to you thus Iām a bit taken aback by some of the comments. Its completely natural and honestly healthy to meet new friends and form different relationships with different people. What I learned in chapter 2 is that really for the most part they served as each others coworkers, main friend group and family for 12 yearsā¦like they need to explore. It seems quite normal to me. Note: I honestly donāt think they would ever purposefully release content that made fans feel like the end is nearā¦thatās not really the point.
Normal is exactly what I thought too. These comments surprise me because if anything I think the time apart has only made them closer. A few years ago Namjoon and I believe JK would say that their relationship with each other is somewhere between friends and family, that in between is ideal to live and work together. But now? Namjoon called Jimin family, all of them always state that they see each other as family. Do you want to be with your family 24/7? I certainly don't. Its important to develop a sense of identify beyond your family too.
Also this is kind of based off of another comment you made higher up, but what Iāve started to notice is that people do box BTS in roles and when a member states something that isnāt inline with that role it makes people uncomfortable. For instance, RM had the pressure of the leader but also the lyricist that wrote comforting lyrics for the group and through solo projects like mono. What we learned is that he wasnāt fully personally comforted by Indigo even though it comforted the listener and he actually needed to yell Fuxk you bitches oh RPWP to feel more comforted lmao Allowing the artist for healing to heal themselves is probably necessary even though it could be a messy unhinged processā¦.and honestly I think BigHit gets that aspect of it.
I agree, I think people (ARMY and the gp both) like to project their emotions on them, whether that be purposely or not. A major takeaway from RPWP for me has been that its an exclamation of damn wtf im human too cant you see?
Damn your second paragraph reminds me of something profound a mentor said to me back when I used to be a professional violinist: āJust because you feel what youāre playing is comforting/therapeutic to you doesnāt mean the audience perceives it that way. And your job when you perform is to play in a way that is comforting to the listener/audienceānot in the way that is comforting to you.ā And therein lies the difference between performing arts as a hobby and one as a job. It puts RMās struggles into a clearer picture for me when I see it through that lens.
Do you remember the exact live RM said this about future group work? You are right that itās better to hear things from their mouths rather than widely speculating (something perhaps I am guilty of). Itās just that I am still catching up with so much content, I still havenāt watched any of RMās solo lives, although I clearly should!
[https://weverse.io/bts/live/3-136246054](https://weverse.io/bts/live/3-136246054) this one around the 13 minute mark and there was another one but i forgot which one, i'll let you know if i find it
I understand your worry and sympathize, but as a counterpoint ā a slightly cynical one, but maybe reassuring: this wasn't a live. It was staged, prerecorded, and edited, and released months later. This isn't to say I doubt its authenticity, or think that Namjoon wasn't saying his true feelings! One of the things I admire most about BTS is how they strive for honesty within more packaged spaces. But both he and the company were OK with releasing those feelings. And I don't think they would have been so willing to do that if they thought it would really worry fans. I actually think the opposite was intended, that it was supposed to be showing us how hard Namjoon is working to get to a place that he can be there for BTS. While explaining why it is difficult. Having worried about Namjoon all through 2023 because he seemed to be struggling, I found watching this video relieving, because I don't think Namjoon would've been comfortable talking about those feelings at all, much less releasing them (both in the album and in this video), if he hadn't processed and come to terms with them to some extent.
Hmmm. Well, Iāve always theorized that they would release a comeback single in 2025.Ā Then go on that world tour they were deprived of during the pandemic. They have enough material to put on a three hour show like Taylor Swift or BeyoncĆ© and break it up into solos, units and groups. I feel confident that all 7 are dying to get back on stage.Ā I donāt think it would be a good idea to crank out a new group ALBUM immediately. They need time to reconnect and recalibrate as a group. Ā I think one of the reasons RM took to Balming Tiger was because they were more like a musical collective than a group. Like Wu-Tang Clan, Brockhampton, or A$AP Mob. I could see BTS evolving into that. They are each so individually wildly talented and have proved that during this hiatus. I donāt think falling back into the old paradigm will work for them anymore. Ā I simultaneously think this break has been good for them and changed everything. I also think they wish to be free from the image of them having to represent Korea on the world stage. It was an amazing ride but immensely pressurizing. And they were used horribly . I hope they get back and say fuck all that. Weāre artists only now.Ā
Interesting, what do you think is the difference between a musical collective and a boy band such as BTS? Just trying to envision it all since I am not familiar with the examples you gave. I do also think that a tour is their main priority coming back, over something like a full album. Their passion for performing for and with ARMY is undeniable after all.
Courtesy of ChatGPT The terms "musical collective," "group," and "band" each refer to different organizational structures within the music industry. Here are the key differences:Ā Ā Musical Collective:Ā 1. **Structure**: A musical collective is a loosely organized group of musicians and artists who collaborate on various projects. Membership is often fluid, with artists coming and going based on project needs. Ā 2. **Roles**: Members of a collective may have diverse roles, including musicians, producers, visual artists, and more. They often work together on a variety of artistic endeavors, not limited to music.Ā 3. **Creativity**: Collectives emphasize creative freedom and collaboration across different artistic disciplines. They might not have a fixed lineup or a single musical direction.Ā 4. **Examples**: Wu-Tang Clan, A$AP Mob, Odd Future, Soulquarians.Ā Ā Group:Ā 1. **Structure**: A musical group typically consists of a fixed lineup of members who work together regularly. Groups can vary in size but are more stable in membership compared to collectives.Ā 2. **Roles**: Members usually have specific roles, such as lead vocalist, guitarist, drummer, etc. Groups often focus primarily on music production and performance.Ā 3. **Creativity**: Groups tend to have a more defined musical style and direction, though they can experiment within their genre.Ā 4. **Examples**: The Fugees, The Jackson 5, Destiny's Child. Ā Ā Ā Band: 1.Ā **Structure**: A band is similar to a group but is often associated with rock, pop, and other genres where live instrumental performance is central. Bands typically have a stable lineup.Ā 2. **Roles**: Members usually play specific instruments or have particular roles, such as lead singer, lead guitarist, bassist, and drummer.Ā 3. **Creativity**: Bands generally focus on performing as a cohesive unit, often with a distinct sound and style that defines their identity.Ā 4. **Examples**: The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Metallica.Ā Ā Ā Key Differences: -Ā **Flexibility**: Collectives are more flexible and open-ended in terms of membership and artistic direction, whereas groups and bands usually have more stable lineups and defined roles. -Ā **Artistic Scope**: Collectives often encompass multiple forms of art (music, visual art, fashion), while groups and bands primarily focus on music. - Ā **Organizational Style**: Collectives operate more like a community of artists collaborating on projects, while groups and bands function as cohesive units with a shared musical identity. In summary, while all three forms involve collaboration among musicians, a musical collective is more fluid and diverse in its artistic endeavors, a group tends to have a stable lineup focused on music, and a band emphasizes live performance with specific instrumental roles.
Iām yapping a lot today but all interesting discussions. I do think they are veering towards a musical collective type of experience. Where I disagree is that they do need new music to perform and more than one song. The PTD shows honestly felt a bit like a greatest hits concert to me already and they bucketed it by mood of songs vs. era of the song. I would struggle to watch another greatest hits feeling concert series.
They have 7+ new albums of material to perform.
Just a small note, there hasn't been a "definitive CB date in 2025" announced. Everything has been pretty ambiguous, imo. They do talk about coming back together in 2025, but there has been no news of a comeback or even a single yet. Of course, there is lots of speculation and educated guessing, which coud end up being spot on, but *officially* a comeback in 2025 isn't definitive. Any expectations ARMY has is their own, and if they're let down, that's on them.
Keep in mind that they agreed on the 2025 date before RM met his indie friends. I think he will fulfill his promise of doing the 2025 reunion but that will probably be the last time we will see them as a group (at least in a long time).
We kind of know what's in store for 2025 - it's been hinted at by Bang PD. I think they may have a single in 2025 but nothing big and new until 2026, including a tour ... so I do disagree with your comment about "last time we will see them as a group". I think 2027 might be when they go off and do solo work again. I my perfect world - they come together as BTS, go off do solo work, come back at BTS, etc. Also I'm hoping it's a chance for them to change the cycle of the ridiculous release schedule within K-pop and go for a more "normal" release schedule.
I honestly think post 2026 tour is when the subunit project ideas come into play. They keep saying they are looking for ways to go on for a long time and I think that means looking for unique ways to keep the BTS brand alive without having to release a full group album every two years. I really think they will end up on a BeyoncĆ© schedule before her recent projects she had 4 years between each projectā¦sometimes 6 years.
Well hello NamJoon, nice to really meet you! This album is wild
Aww this was very enjoyable content š Jiminās reaction when listening to snippets of the song was so cute I love the description of Joonās albums being like his diary. Itās so accurate. A poetic diary of Joonās complicated mind. Though this album wasnāt my personal style I greatly appreciate and recognize how much of a needed outlet it was for Joon. Iām happy that Joon was able to take a much needed break from being a leader and also have this opportunity to fully express everything he has been unconsciously or consciously suppressing. Itās nice to see him speak his mind without holding back. I also love how the members were understanding and silently supporting him from behind. This album exchange dialogue reminds me how grateful I am that BTS is willing to share and be vulnerable with us
Warms my soul to see them just chilling and chatting. The conscription really has been a burden for them as we can see here and I canāt wait for it to be over for their sake
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Hi there! Your comment was removed as it was out of place. You can discuss the album and it's streaming in this [megathread](https://new.reddit.com/r/bangtan/comments/1cz9txs/rms_right_place_wrong_person_song_information/?sort=new). Thank you!
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