How was BTS formed? Everything you need to know about Bangtan Boys

BTS may be one of the biggest music groups in the world today, but their journey began long before sold-out stadiums, chart-topping albums and global fan hysteria. Over the years, the seven-member K-pop group has built not just a huge fanbase, but also one of the most inspiring rise-to-fame stories in modern pop culture. From RM being the first member to join to how the group slowly came together under Big Hit Entertainment, here’s a look at how BTS was formed.

How BTS was formed

BTS was formed by Bang Si-Hyuk, the songwriter and producer who founded Big Hit Entertainment in 2005. A few years later, in 2010, he began putting together a new boy group called Bangtan Sonyeondan, which would later become globally known as BTS. The first member to be selected was RM, who was already known in Seoul’s underground rap scene. From there, the lineup was built around talent in singing, rapping and dancing, eventually bringing together Jin, Suga, j-hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook.

What does BTS mean?

BTS stands for Bangtan Sonyeondan, which translates to “Bulletproof Boy Scouts.” The group is also often called the Bangtan Boys. Back in 2013, j-hope had explained on Kiss the Radio that the name reflected the group’s desire “to block out stereotypes, criticisms and expectations that aim at adolescents like bullets." Later in 2017, BTS also expanded the meaning of their name to “Beyond the Scene.” This was meant to reflect growth, maturity and the journey of moving forward in life.

Their early music journey

BTS made their debut with the School trilogy, starting with 2 Cool 4 Skool (2013), followed by O!RUL8,2? (2013) and Skool Luv Affair (2014). Their first full-length album, Dark & Wild, released in 2014, helped establish their identity further. One thing that made BTS stand out early on was that they were involved in writing their own lyrics, often touching on themes like self-love, individuality, youth struggles and empowerment.

The group’s popularity continued to grow with every release. In 2015, they dropped The Most Beautiful Moment in Life, Part 1 and Part 2, and soon after, they embarked on their first world tour.

When BTS started going global

BTS’ international breakthrough only kept growing from there. Their 2016 album Wings became a major turning point and marked one of their early entries into major global charts. They later re-released the album as You Never Walk Alone (2017), which further cemented their growing global presence. Over the years, BTS would go on to become one of the most influential acts not just in K-pop, but in global pop music overall.

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BTS’ recent comeback

Earlier this month, BTS officially made their long-awaited comeback with their fifth studio album ARIRANG, marking their return as a full group after four years. The members had spent the past few years focusing on solo projects and completing their mandatory military service. Their comeback album is led by the full-English title track SWIM, whose music video was shot in Lisbon.

Following the album release, BTS also performed at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul, and the comeback show was streamed live in India on Netflix.

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