BTS paved the way! ARMY cheer as Billboard names K-pop sensation as 19th greatest pop star of the 21st century

When RM said, "For Asia, man, we paved the way" in his new song 'Neva Play' with Megan Thee Stallion, he received criticism from K-pop fans. However, in a twist of fate, Billboard, releasing the "25 greatest pop stars of the last 25 years" chose BTS in the 19th spot and wrote, "BTS truly paved the way." As the first quarter of the 21st century comes to a close, Billboard staff chose Bangtan Sonyeondan to occupy the 19th spot due to their contribution to making K-pop global.

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The septet — Kim Namjoon, Kim Seokjin, Min Yoongi, Jung Hoseok, Park Jimin, Kim Taehyung, and Jeon Jungkook — have taken K-pop to new global heights and set the standard for high-level hitmaking and their fans called ARMY have shown support to the men over the past decade. Each member has their style and voice, yet together, they blend very well. This individual uniqueness has led fans to celebrate their "bias" (solo favourite) but also share respect and love with all other members - proving to be true OT7 (One True 7).

According to Billboard, "No K-pop group — or group in general — has been able to accomplish what Bangtan has this century. From creating a global community to expanding K-pop well outside its genre and delivering seven successful pop star solo acts, BTS truly paved the way."

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Seeing this recognition, just days after RM faced criticism for saying something similar, led ARMY to say, "This is Karma." Many on X (formerly known as Twitter) started trending tags and cheering for the group, who, despite serving in the South Korean military, continue to break records due to the strong support of their fans.

Where is BTS?

Of the seven members, six are currently serving in the South Korean military. While Jin was discharged in June and is busy with work, brand deals, and gearing up for his solo album, the rest are expected to be discharged by 2025. Rapper J-Hope will be relieved of his duties in October 2024, with the rest coming out almost together by June 2025.  

Jin was the first of the BTS members to start his military service in December 2022, shortly after his 30th birthday. J-Hope followed in April, while Suga began his conscription as a social service agent on September 22, 2023. The four remaining members — RM, V, Jungkook, and Jimin — enlisted in December 2023.

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