The famous Gangnam Style that took the world by storm in 2012 became a gate for the world to K-pop. Over the years many groups came and left their imprint, but the group that made K-pop the biggest sensation was once a part of the small, unknown group Big Hit Entertainment (now HYBE Corporation).
BTS or Bangtan Sonyeondan, meaning Bulletproof Boy Scouts is a record-breaking and the biggest K-pop group in the world. BTS formed in 2010 and officially debuted on June 13 2013 with members R.M., Jin, Suga, J-hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook. And their fandom name is ARMY, known for being extremely loyal to boys. Their hard work and fans’ support made them the most successful and powerful boy band.
Early Years And Formation
BTS was created by Bang Si-hyuk for their own individuality, authenticity, and deep love for music. The members were trained for years before making their debut, but that’s not it. The boys went through a hard time for years before making a name for themselves. BTS’s first single album was 2 Cool 4 Skool in 2013. Their initial genre was hip-hop, R&B, and EDM which usually focused on themes like youth pressure, social issues, mental health, and social expectations.
Rise to LOCAL AND GLOBAL Fame
BTS’s early journey was filled with hardship, not what we see today. The journey from underdog idols to global icons was only known to their close ones and Army, their beloved fandom. Their albums like Dark & Wild in 2014 and The Most Beautiful Moment in Life series in 2015 helped in their growth, but their 2017-18 album, LOVE YOURSELF marked a huge breakthrough internationally, with Love Yourself: Her and Love Yourself: Tear showcasing their touching lyrics and artistic range.
Historic Achievements & Records
BTS has shattered countless records, broken barriers and redefined K-pop on a global level. They have dominated multiple Billboard 100 and Billboard 200 number-one hits, including songs like Dynamite, Butter, Permission to Dance and Boy With Luv. They became the first Korean artists nominated for Grammy Awards, taking K-pop to a much wider stage.
They have named the best-selling musical artist in South Korean history for their over 40 million Album sale. Not just that, the boys hold 26 Guinness World Records and are featured on Time’s 100 Most Influential People List. They also became youngest recipients of the South Korean Order of Cultural Merit for their contribution in spreading Korean wave globally.
BTS are more than just singers, they are known for their contribution to culture and voices for social change. Their Love Myself campaign with UNICEF helped in raising awareness and funds to end violence against children and teens across the world. The group has also delivered speeches at the United Nations General Assembly, spreading more awareness about mental health.
Hiatus and mandatory military service
South Korea has a rule for mandatory military service, and in 2022, BTS announced a temporary break to fulfil their military service. Over the next few years, members pursued solo projects, albums, and tours, building individual legacies while maintaining group’s image. By June 2025, all members had completed their service and decided to make their comeback in mid-2026 with their major comeback with their fifth studio album, a huge moment for ARMY worldwide.
The global phenomenon, BTS started with a humble origin, but today, with their lasting legacy in music and culture, they empower youth worldwide. They are the group that PAVE THE WAY for all groups in the American market and redefine the meaning of a global artist in the 21st century.
