South Korean boy band BTS, also known as Bangtan Sonyeondan (Bulletproof Boy Scouts), made a grand entrance into the music scene on June 13, 2013. Comprising seven members, the group quickly rose to international fame, not only for their music but also for their deep, socially conscious messages. In July 2017, they unveiled a renewed logo that garnered widespread acclaim and went on to win the prestigious iF Design Award in February 2018, one of the top three design awards globally. Interestingly, their previous logo bore a resemblance to that of the apartment brand SK View but has since evolved into a butterfly shape. BTS's name carries a profound meaning, symbolizing their commitment to protect teenagers from societal challenges, prejudices, and oppression.
Group Name: 방탄소년단 (BTS)
Debut Date:
- Korea: June 13, 2013
- Japan: June 14, 2014
Debut Album: Single Album "2 COOL 4 SKOOL"
Leader: RM
Genre: Rap/Hip Hop, Dance, Pop, Ballad, EDM, R&B/Urban
Company: Big Hit Music
Label: HYBE LABELS
Fandom Name: A.R.M.Y
DARK&WILD: The 1st Album: “Love's Complexities Unraveled”
Released over a year after their debut, BTS's first full-length album, "DARK&WILD", dives into the complexities of love that doesn't go as planned. With the lead single "Danger", the album features a hybrid hip-hop track infused with punk rock guitar sounds, direct raps, powerful choruses, and refreshing shouting. The album theme revolves around the frustration and helplessness in a relationship, where love seems to be a one-sided affair. "DARK&WILD" is a testament to BTS's ability to craft songs that resonate with the emotional turmoil of young love.
WINGS: The 2nd Album: “A Tale of Youth and Temptation”
"WINGS", BTS's second studio album, released on October 10, 2016, explores the theme of youth facing temptation. This album, arriving after "화양연화 Young Forever" and two years after "DARK&WILD", marks a significant departure from their previous works. It delves into the growth and understanding of desire, temptation, and evil as integral parts of maturing. Featuring 15 tracks, including eight solo songs by each member, "WINGS" is praised for its groundbreaking structure and the inclusion of a fan song, showcasing a bold transformation in their musical journey.
LOVE YOURSELF 轉 'Tear': The 3rd Album: “Embracing the End of Masked Love”
Released on May 18, 2018, "LOVE YOURSELF 轉 'Tear'" is the third studio album by BTS, following eight months after their mini-album “LOVE YOURSELF 承 'Her'". This album continues the narrative from their previous works, focusing on the pain of separation and the illusion of fake love. Contrasting with the earlier themes of excited and fluttering hearts, "LOVE YOURSELF 轉 'Tear'" delves into the realization that even love under a guise inevitably leads to separation, tying into the overarching message of the "LOVE YOURSELF" series that true love begins with self-acceptance.
MAP OF THE SOUL : 7: The 4th Album: “An Honest Quest for Self”
"MAP OF THE SOUL : 7", released on February 21, 2020, stands as BTS's fourth studio album and the second installment in the "MAP OF THE SOUL" series. This album shifts the focus from external communication to confronting one's inner shadows. RM, one of the members, mentioned that the process involved emotional moments, especially when crafting the darker tracks. Linking back to earlier albums like “SKOOL LUV AFFAIR”, this album explores themes of self-identity and reflection through tracks like "ON", "Interlude: Shadow", "We are Bulletproof: the Eternal", and "Outro: Ego", highlighting BTS's journey of self-discovery and acceptance.
BTS's music, from "DARK&WILD" to "MAP OF THE SOUL: 7", transcends language and culture, blending genres and themes like love and identity, offering solace and inspiration to a global audience, and cementing their legacy as innovative, authentic artists.