the problem with the "masterminds" behind bts

[@legendzbts]

no one can replicate bts success not even hybe.

[@eileencritchley4630]

Correct and Bang PD has said so on many occassions and he's never once claimed to the the mastermind behind BTS he's always says it's the members.

[@roguechevelle]

@@eileencritchley4630 Exactly. It's reporters or others putting that label on him when he himself would never call himself that

[@AwakeningWings]

@@roguechevelle Yeah, exactly.

[@DualPippa]

​@@eileencritchley4630 Another thing about Bang PD is that he pushed them to tell their own stories. He had a role in their vision in that way. Instead of going with generic themes, he suggested that they talk about young adult issues. That became their theme and MO.

[@JackInTheBox0294]

​@@DualPippayes

[@siatongatonga]

As suga has said, "he gets all of the responsibilities as leader and not enough credit." Mad love for RM. 💜💜

[@mf722]

Suga also said that RM doesn't get pd more for being the group's leader or as their translator and spokesperson. He gave RM mad praise for their global success.

[@maizatulummira8050]

Indeed. Hats off to our genius president RM

[@maizatulummira8050]

@boracity magazine This is exactly why I love you. Overall I agree with you. Not denying the contribution of Bang PD and the team, but if we apply the same formula they use with BTS to other groups, honestly speaking, the other groups are still strongly binded to the stereotypical of kpop groups. Even if they try to break free from this stereotype, they eventually keep coming back again. It's like a massive production of boy/girl groups with different concepts. Even if they have different concepts, it sounds to-mah-to/to-ma-to to me. If we look back at BTS journey in releasing their albums, all their concepts/eras have their own story to tell. They work hard, practised hard everyday. They tried to make their dance to be nearly 100% perfect (like danger and boy in love) for them to be accepted and recognised since they came from small label. Don't be offended if you are mulistans. I'm not saying other kpop groups are not good. See, that's the thing. BTS is not kpop😅 They dont represent kpop. BTS stands alone. They have raise the standards so high in the sky. My point is that, all the 7 members contribute as much as being the mastermind of their own success, with RM as the root of BTS. What if Jhope quit last time and didn't come back? What if JK didn't meet RM? Bang PD also mentioned about how lucky BTS is to have such a loyal fandom. No, no, no. Anyone could be an ARMY. But to stay for a long time, through thick and thin? I doubt it. Its coming back to BTS again. We stay mainly because of their humility. I've been following them since 2013. They never change. Look at how they treat ARMY - full of respect and consideration. Basically it's all thanks to BTS. We stay, we become loyal, true supporters because of who they are. They cried, showed their real emotions/feelings to ARMY without hiding any mask. Credits on them 100%, not us ARMY. This video should be dedicated to Namjoon just to show and tell him not only as our appreciation but also as recognition of his capability as a leader. Also, for not giving up on his dream. Apobangbo.

[@mc_7_25]

​@@maizatulummira8050there's a difference between ARMY and fandoms. who else would do a beach cleanup before the BTS concert in Busan ? Do other fandoms do that?

[@maizatulummira8050]

@mc_7_25 lol. Indeed. No one can beat ARMY. We have done many charity works. I have never seen other fans doing this especially in the west. ARMY is awesome. ARMY is spectacular. Let's be healthy and live long life with BTS so we can tell the tale to our next generation. Apobangbo.

[@secretyidentity2833]

Conclusion: everyone should stand up and clap every time Namjoon enters a room

[@menohero_menovillian]

Don’t we do that already? 🤣

[@belaytriks]

​@@menohero_menovillianI think we do... 😅

[@catherinewandera8790]

THIS! 👏👏👏

[@matmost]

Standing ovation is not enough. Support his music

[@secretyidentity2833]

@@matmost 💯

[@victoria.elm5]

The mastermind here is Namjoon. He convinced Big Hit to get Hobi back when he left, because he knew they needed him. Jungkook joined because of him. Namjoon made the members listen to all types of music, and now Hybe makes their trainees do exactly that. And there are so many other examples in which Joon's input was crucial. Their success is the combination of the seven's blood, sweat, and tears, the love BTS has for ARMY and the love ARMY has for BTS, the freedom BigHit gave them to put in their music the messages they wanted to convey. And let's not forget the love the seven of them have for music. They really, really love their art, it's even their love language (see how, when they want to compliment each other, they compliment each other's music 💜). Each one of them is special and has their own charms, and their unique, irreplaceable role in the group, I could write a thesis on this. But all of this was possible thanks to Joon. He's the mastermind.

[@chihuang422]

Thank God that Namjoon's dad convinced him to return to BigHit after Namjoon wanted to leave. His dad didn't want him to regret on giving up his dream. Namjoon had a great support system when it was hard to continue. Behind a great man/leader, there is great support.

[@MatadorEvents]

It might not be a big factor but their kindness and love the members have not only for each other but also for all the staff that support them is also credit to the leadership with humility

[@celiabloom]

​@@chihuang422 I think it was V who wanted to leave and his dad convinced him to stay. 😅

[@baconx2690]

Him creating a powerpoint presentation to convince HYBE execs to stop their plans of going into NFTs really told me that he was the special ingredient in all this.

[@alkim1519]

​@@celiabloomSí, así fue. V quiso marcharse y su padre le aconsejó que no lo hiciera. Luego JHope también quiso irse y le convenció Jungkook que se echó a llorar. Esos chicos habían pasado por situaciones muy duras. Más de las que pensamos. Supongo que la empresa también prometió relajarse un poco. Se les escapaba la gallina de los huevos de oro.

[@fmoreira2727]

Namjoon is an original seed that comes once in a lifetime. Hybe was a nurturing environment but the best gardener in the world cannot bloom what isn’t already in the plant’s DNA. How fortunate we are to be alive at the same time and witness BTS grow and flourish side by side!

[@eileencritchley4630]

Beautifully said

[@noemibernal4882]

Yes, really beautiful metaphor

[@arminda8]

Well said! Love it, love RM and BTS!

[@Ahens_7]

suddenly you are talking like namjoon😅

[@shrinidhis613]

That's one of the best ways to put it!❤

[@HailToTheMeep]

The answer is our president and leader Kim Namjoon.

[@HailToTheMeep]

In all seriousness, I think it is the synergy between the members, AND the RAP LINE. Song writer, poet, producer. Looking at RM’s solo projects, RM isn’t only a curator of art, he is also a curator of artists. Of talents.

[@mora5146]

Yes, I think it would be impossible for BTS to become BTS without one of the members 💜

[@HailToTheMeep]

@@mora5146The members ARE BTS 💜 This is why dividing the members is destroying BTS. (Not talking about solo projects)

[@eileencritchley4630]

@@HailToTheMeep but BTS aren't dividing they are learning new things as artists that will useful for the group. They'll be back together before we know it. Every artist needs to keep growing be fresh in order to do that they need time to try thing's on their own as well as with the group.

[@guillerminahaydeedelanoeur7997]

👏👏👏👏🙏

[@jennycheng4486]

I've been a little stressed about all the chaos at Hybe and how it would impact BTS, but watching this video made me fully realize something that I already subconsciously knew. BTS does not need Hybe. Hybe needs BTS. BTS will survive and thrive no matter what happens at Hybe.

[@alkim1519]

Muy cierto pero... Hybe se dará cuenta de eso?? Últimamente parece que esa empresa anda un poco despistada .

[@KellyBangtansArmy_1017]

they will definitely survive co'z first and foremost for what i know BTS may have shares with Hybe company but, but their Label Bighit is independent from hybe than those other labels that was acquired by hybe.. in other words Hybe can fall but BTS will still continue because Bighit is their own Label since from the beggining..it is bighit that was attached to them.

[@christinebaukus8281]

Your video brings up many good points, I agree with you, especially about Namjoon. I’ve been worried about Namjoon since his solo releases, his music hints that he is really burnt out and tired (only my observation) but after watching this video I can see why. Having been in this type of leadership position since 16 years old would affect anyone. I hope that his time in the military gives him a break and a fresh perspective, since it seems that as soon as they are released they hit the ground running.

[@Sherluck93]

​@@christinebaukus8281 He got it figured out already. The mastermind already masterminded. Being 'Lost' and 'Namjooning', plus no doubt the recent trouble, reinspired and energized him, together with the unshakeable support from Army. 2025 can't come soon enough! We are ready and prepared! He was burnt out. I guarantee he's confused no more! 💜

[@christinebaukus8281]

@@Sherluck93 that makes me feel better!

[@laiamchronicles]

Basically, bts worked since RM as the leader had a vision and the members saw that vision and future he showed them that's why they all persevered and hoped. Their sincerity to their art and the people around them resulted to supporting people and not just fans all over the world. RM also knows how to see trends before they even start, that's why a lot of trends started with BTS. That's a talent that you can't really replicate.

[@jess__97]

I have noticed that the members are always inspired by RM's thoughts and vision, which is the whole group's vision. Just like in Mini & Moni Music Jimin told us that he used to ask " what his thoughts should be as an artist?" "what do fans mean to them?" RM delivered these thoughts to the members and that's why all the members are humble, hardworking, and passionate , which ultimately made BTS who they are.💜💜💜💜💜💜💜

[@patriciamenguito79]

RM set the trends. His gut instinct and innate brightness cannot be dimmed.

[@gaticafl3372]

RM is a very intelligent man a real genius he is our president

[@saroar.]

"Fuck the trendsetter" - RM, 2022.

[@patriciamenguito79]

​@@saroar.RM doesn't see himself as a trendsetter. That is why he is so cool.

[@secretadmirer5006]

I hope RM sees this, to know he is deeply appreciated!

[@maliam_]

The reason why BTS are the BTS they are today is BTS

[@mariasol1545]

facts sugar said he writes a song everyday and AFTER the fact hybe now makes trainees practice lyric writing lol also Namjoon made the members listen to all types of music .. there is so many examples like this the members inspired each other constantly

[@user-this-isak-eybo-ards-mash]

Correct. Not Bang

[@orleeb4721]

BTS is a once in a lifetime historical phenomenon. It can’t be replicated… it just happens.

[@mavissa349]

The difference being that BTS will last significantly longer than The Beatles as a group, because they check their egos at the door...

[@melvaburke2608]

​@@mavissa349 Agree 💯 Frankly; I Never liked Beatles 🎶 It Was Generic. They Just Had Long Hair (Different from USA Boy Bands At The Time) *BTS* No Comparison! BTS; Sing, Dance Rap, & Are Entertainers On Stage! Being 72yrs, I've Heard Just About All Music. My Core Is R&B. But, No One Compares To BTS Music. 🙏 Thank You For Allowing This Older Lady To Share! 💜 Stay Safe. *Watching from New⚘️Jersey, USA 😎

[@ILmylife108]

Great comment. I am 70 and have been loving BTS since 2017.💜

[@rrr8990]

Jin once said it: Bang PD got lucky. I like HYBE/BH, I like their values and I hope they prosper because the music industry really needs more companies like this. But creating another BTS? Impossible, you would need to clone them. BTS and its members are icons that you see only once in a lifetime

[@kearycemoore2256]

That's what we always say, they are a once in a lifetime group

[@LizbethOT7]

And yet, he shared their success with ARMY (50%), Big Hit (15%), and 5% for each member! What a leader!

[@Lovewinsall64]

I’m not sure I understand what you mean. BSH is the biggest shareholder in Hybe with 31.57% and the members themselves have a tiny share in comparison - about 0.16% each or 1.15% together as a group based on June24 figures. That doesn’t seem to reflect what BTS contributed to the establishment of Hybe…

[@adrianamora7904]

​@@Lovewinsall64RM said that BTS success if put in % is like that, and he always remembers that to himself to stay humble. Of course we as army think BTS deserve more, but that were his words.

[@elizabethmunguia3876]

​​@@Lovewinsall64 I think you didnt understand, then... OP wasn't talking about shares of the company, they were refering to that one video (im not too sure from where that clip was or from what), where Rm mentions how much percentage/credit he gives to all the people involved in their careers. Its a subjective statement, not something backed by real numbers 😅

[@NiAgaraPhoPho2025]

​@@Lovewinsall64sorry but OP ain't talking about HYBE shares, they r talking about a press conference BTS did, and a journalist asked namjoon about their success or something like that I forgot what the question was, and namjoon answered like what OP commented

[@ajlee2168]

​@@Lovewinsall64 rm was making a hypothetical example, he said if they receive an award, half of the reason they got it (/ success in general) is army, and the rest is split between company (15%) and members (5% each). he reminds himself that his contribution is "only" 5%, to stay humble and not get lost in all the stardom, and reiterating the point that in the end its all thanks to teamwork, not to a single person's genius.

[@menohero_menovillian]

And this is exactly why RM is my bias. I love all the members. But as a more mature fan, I could care less that they’re all “hot”. Lots of celebrities are hot. But seeing how RM presents himself and the group, how he leads and guides them to work hard with great work ethic, how they don’t succumb to bullying and being savage to those who are disrespectful towards them, really won me over. His alpha/leader vibes is soooo hot to me now. I first got into BTS from a business standpoint. I wanted to see what made THIS group the biggest group out of all the others. I thought it was because of BSH as the mastermind. But now I think he just allowed the members more creative freedom than other labels. Of course he guided them, but you can only guide people so far. They have to have the mental strength to take it even further. With all the BS bts has faced all these years, it really just takes one member to say “that’s it! I’ve had enuff!” And the group will disband. I’ve tried to summarize their underdog story to muggles and 100% of the time they say to me “all groups go through that”. I don’t even know how to explain it to them in a few sentences. I’m sure RM had a lot to do with HYBE giving them shares and voting rights. He would be more vocal and know what’s best for them than anyone else in the group. I really want him to be more of a world leader coz the world would be a better place. But seeing how he’s recently been saying he’s done with being a diplomat, I guess he doesn’t want that so I must respect it I’m super proud of everything RM and the members have achieved. I absolutely cannot wait for them to come back and friggin DESTROY the music industry and once and for all show the whole god damn world that they are the best and they PAVED THE WAY, and NO ONE will be able to deny it. RM absolutely deserves a Grammy nomination for RPWP. The world needs to start respecting this man and give him his flowers.

[@mizalbhavsar8673]

Yes...I agree with every point you said. RM's UN 2018 speech is the reason i actually started to dig deeper into BTS. Before that I just knew that they're popular artists, but why would they be so much popular, what is it that makes people become so loyal to a group that is from another country and you can't even understand their language? His speech sort of cleared everything up for me and then the music did the rest of its magic. RM does so much for the group and yet he gets so much hate from solos 😔😪 He deserves his flowers..i really hope he gets a Grammy

[@anju5124]

I think his taste in music is amazing. He brings amazing artists to collab with him. His lyrics are superior. Simply an underrated soloist from the group.

[@7toheavan4ever54]

💯 everything you said ! 🫶💜 We are so lucky to have Namjoon and his 6 brothers in our lives Greetings from Austria Borahae

[@7toheavan4ever54]

​@mizalbhavsar8673 same for me. Namjoons 2018 UN speach and then 'MONO' pulled me right into the Magic Shop 💜 I will forever be grateful to RM for being my guiding light into the BangtanArmy family Borahae

[@catherinewandera8790]

👏👏👏 Well said! I too gave RM a wide berth in the beginning; and it's only recently after RPWP that I found myself having a soft spot for him. Listening to that album, the intensity and raw authentic lyrics laced with pain from his personal experiences culminating into saying goodbye to his 20's and entering his 30's was eye opening for me. I slept on him for so long, not realising I was missing out. Like I said, I've grown incredibly fond of him in the recent past.

[@HailToTheMeep]

BTS is a perfect storm. A lightening in a bottle. A timely combination of talents, management who trusts and respects their artists and their talents, and a fandom who believes in their music. This can’t be a top down process. It has to be a bottom up process. But to combine talent with money, the company has to focus on the numbers, and this is when the tension between art and money occurs. The numbers require a fast turn over. The art requires time.

[@nehalilisays]

I had a friend who looooved to emphasize what a "genius" Bang PD is for creating BTS and compared him to Steve Jobs... I really hate it when the members are viewed as some kind of amazingly marketed puppets. You cannot artificially create magic, you can only give it a chance to happen naturally.

[@eileencritchley4630]

I hate it as well and as Bang himself said he can't make 'another' when someone asked him that question, in other words he was telling them there can be no new BTS. He's never called him the 'Genius the made BTS or the Genius behind BTS' he's alway said it was BTS themselves. That's why I find it doubling insulting and disrespectful when 'others' eg people in the music industry, so called music journalist put words into his mouth. It's dis respectful to BTS, it's dis respectful to Bang PD. Bang is like RM talent and and genius in that he see's things in the Kpop Industry as a whole that other either just don't see the issues and problems with the Kpop industry. It's still a niche' market on the global stage it's in it's infancy but the Kpop Industry like to see themselves as big fish in their small Asian centred mark rather than smaller fish in the Global market.

[@BoraBaeOT7]

I don’t think his genius was in creating the group. It was in having his ego in check enough to listen to the boys on key choices and admitting that he isn’t always right. There’s so many enormous egos in the music industry, he’s just a fascinating study because he really does seem to want to foster artists not products. Hybe brings in existing labels that already have their own cultures. Hybe isn’t a label, it’s a corporation organizing labels. However, when you look at the groups that he actually has a hand in creating, he really does seem to want to give them space to be artists first.

[@wise5746]

Bang PD is not genuis!! It is RM who is genius

[@BoraBaeOT7]

@@wise5746 there is more than one kind of genius. Recognizing one doesn’t detract from the other. Prodigy is only one type of genius. The group contains more than one prodigy. This word applies to both Hobi and Namjoon. It’s immature not to recognize the contributions of everyone involved though. I have the same IQ as Namjoon. I’m not even close to as successful because I didn’t have people surrounding me to nurture it and provide the opportunities needed to use it. The need to villainize people in the narrative surrounding the group is pretty wild. Particularly given the opportunity that they provided the boys to shine. Bang PD is a genius when it comes to intuition and music in general. You don’t think he had a massive hand in the writing and production of BTS music? You need to go look at the credits and watch more of their interview content.

[@Gaogaog]

​​@@BoraBaeOT7 very well said.I don't know why a lot of army only see few members as genius or best but forget to give credit to others like we all know jk is a main vocalist and has beautiful voice but do we forget that a lot of people got intrested in BTS coz of Jimin's beautiful voice or jin's and tae's voice.Do we forget that what makes vocal line songs better is coz of the different elements added by all vocalists.Same goes with Rapline people love joonie's and Yoongi's rap but do we forget that hobi's verse's in rapline songs adds different textures to the songs . And mind you a lot of people underestimate hobi's artistry.Like have they heard JITB nobody believed it was hobi after we all heard his feel good and happy songs in his mixtape.

[@eileencritchley4630]

The thing is Bang had to recognise RM's worth and trust RM with the members and his idea's. That is genius most people would have far too big an ego to do that. Bang saw something in RM and was wise enough to trust him that takes a lot of courage, that means recoginsing another person's talents and not be envious of them and a willingness to be hands off. Knowing when to step forward when to step to the side to follow behind. To recognise what that other person needs to be able to fully fulfill their potential, having the guts to be more hands off.

[@nehalilisays]

Being "more hands off" also worked great with NJ - at least commercially. But there are clearly some hurt egos on both sides...

[@crystaldragon8211]

I can agree with that wholeheartedly. I'm not sure we would be graced with BTS if they had an iron grip on them that all other groups have so that they are always controlled. One of the things I love about our Boys is their chaos. Love BTS and ARMY 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜

[@DualPippa]

There's a reason RM and the other members respect Bang PD. Suga and Jhope said they had to give props to him for his efforts. He took out loans to keep the group even after they had losses and weren't making ends meet. Bang also got talented staff and pushed them too. Their choreographer is the reason BTS has such explosive and interesting performances. He is the one who thought of their cool performances and the team pushed for them to do tough dances that they became iconic for by 2015.

[@Leumili]

Yes. And I think this probably helped to find the tone in the group. To let every member have their moments in the spotlight, to acknowledge the worth of every member in the group. Even though it all started with RM, it did not end there. It never became RM and his Bandmates, though they where selected to complement his style.

[@eileencritchley4630]

@@nehalilisays Wrong NJ were and still are controlled by MHJ. NJ's have no faith in themselves they haven't been mentored to come up with their own ideas, eg they don't write lyric's, or even suggest song ideas, they don't compose, they don't give idea's even in the Producing, they don't even suggest and choreo moves or have suggestions for MV's. They are the classic Kpop manufactured by MHJ told what to do and say. puppets not true artists like the BTS members.

[@shine-ow3kq]

A perfect time to put it out here. "While so many people have spent time scratching their heads about how BTS became such a global phenomenon, the answer is truly not that difficult. The group was born of and always guided by love for music and performance, rooted in the spirit of a nineteen-year-old kid who had a vision of scoring the good, the bad, the ugly, and the joy of youth, RM deserves to know that he succeeded." - Consequence.

[@menohero_menovillian]

@@shine-ow3kq 🙌🏼👏

[@Yoonji9212]

BH, Bang PD and other producers and choreographers, staff etc helped and trained BTS, but it was members who learned, changed, evolved into BTS we know. It was members telling us their stories. It was them showing us their true faces. I always though that it was joined effort but if BTS would have other people and not Namjoon, Jin, Yoongi, Hobi, Jimin, Tae and JK it wouldn't be what it is today. It was members that made us love BTS. It was their stories, their personalities, it was and always be them. I am happy that they have good, talented people who helped(and still do) them, but BTS's success is just that. BTS's success. That's just my opinion, feel free to disagree.

[@arminda8]

I’ve been a supervisor to many individuals and no matter how much training, guidance, and support I gave, it always came down to the individual. All of the BTS members had the heart and passion in them, led by RM, the soul of BTS! Great video and topic of discussion Bora!

[@btsuga7enthusiast87]

BTS are IT. They are the ones who have control of their music, and their music is what transcends Kpop and turn GP audiences into the Kpop space. I didn't know anything about kpop before BTS, and going through that discovery didn't rely on all these fancy "mastermind plans" but it boiled down to me coming back for more of their MUSIC. I think that's what makes them DIFFERENT. It's something in their music, their essence as artists, their combined charms and talents, their bond, and their sincerity. I don't think that can be replicated, nor attributed to any "mastermind" out there.

[@1Uni7]

It’s more related to heart than to brain

[@maryv2389]

To me the mastermind behind BTS is actually the 7 men of BTS because they are the ones that went through the trenches together and said Teamwork makes the Dream work. They are the ones that had to pull together when hurt, sick or exhausted because they knew that they needed to have no regrets at the end of the day. Yes they had help but no one has been able to create that once in a lifetime magic like BTS. Last group to do that was the Beatles in the 1960's so before my lifetime.

[@6chex]

Ah, the Beatles. They had vision, yes they were all very talented but they came up with unique music on many levels. Things that no one had done before! Their songs stand the test of time and are still being listened to by multiple generations. BTS are unique and ,at least in part, it is their uniqueness that has taken them to another level. Some of their songs are unique and distinct to what has been available in the East. A lot of KPop songs are derivative, slightly different copies of what others have already done. The growth and size of their fandom help take them around the world. But I do suspect that RM’s leadership and all of their decisions to totally support one another has all played a significant role in their ability to endure and grow. Bang Si hyuk’s vision to see how Americans reacted to them from their first US experience and he kept things growing internationally. Their sucess is a unique combination of multiple factors that can not be duplicated….at least not in the same way.

[@Emma.00.00]

Soooooo true ..thx for sharing with us this

[@anne.joys09]

💯👍

[@1Uni7]

Yes the seven

[@belaytriks]

Unless they manage to get another Kim Namjoon, Kim Seokjin, Min Yoongi, Jung Hoseok, Park Jimin, Kim Taehyung and Jeon Jung Kook they will never, ever, will be able to replicate another BTS. I mean, each one of the boys brings something unique, each one has pushed the other to do their best, each one has huge charms and together they just enlight each other make them shinner together. RM mind, Suga soul, J-Hope ethics, Jin quiet support, Jung Kook infatomable faith in Namjoon, Taehyung child like innocence and Jimin genius emotional inteligence, all that made BTS a perfect storm that happens once in life.

[@anne.joys09]

Wnattt did you say to Jungkook???? Isnt it his all rounder talent being the main vocalist sometimes make good input in Jk

[@belaytriks]

He brings more than skills to BTS, when he was a child he has already elevated RM to heroe status, his faith in their members is so endearing and in the emotional and psychological level it gives a bost of confidence and responsability to all as you can not imagine. Most people that are elevated to great expectations for someone they care, as long as it is in their hands, will try to fullfill such expectations. That is why that faith, was, in my opinion, a more important component to BTS success than his amazing skills that he has keep perfecting, as the same of the rest of BTS, since their debut.

[@lathavaratharajan5071]

Mostly they are scared to highlight Jk's immense talents and his contributions, youngest had more responsibility as main vocalist and centre.

[@SemiQuiet26]

Although this isn't a video essay, this is still an excellent topic to discuss 👍 💜

[@marinal.]

yes

[@Joan-il4qb]

BTS status is like Michael Jackson status. There will never be another Michael Jackson , there will never be another BTS. Those kinds of artists are chosen by the universe to be special! They are not ordinary, and so they can never be duplicated.

[@Jimin_x_Serendipity]

BTS wouldn't reach the heights it reached if it weren't for this guy "Kim Namjoon". A 19 year old who saved BIGHIT from bankruptcy and got BTS into stardom.

[@utkarsharohit-ix7mk]

Bighit* hybe is only 3 years old company

[@mrsta8233]

According to RM , Jimin is the reason they got so much attention. He said without Jimin BTS would have been a disaster. Jimin is who all the other groups wish they had but they don't so congratulations BTS for having Jimin

[@Jimin_x_Serendipity]

@@mrsta8233 yes, I agree with that Jimin brought a lot of fans into BTS, i myself became an ARMY because of Jimin, I can't imagine BTS without Jimin.

[@mrsta8233]

@@Jimin_x_Serendipity He's just so multi skilled. He's the only member who is a classically trained dancer and was top student he also learned popping and locking and competed. He's a black belt in Taekwondo and is a Kendo master having studied it for 8 years. His elegant and graceful dance is pure art. If you took away Jimin from BTS and really look at them He was born to be a superstar. This doesn't take away from the fact that the reason BTS are successful in because of all the members, what they each contribute to the group. Their brotherhood and love for each other. That can't be replicated of replaced, no matter how hard others try they won't succeed.

[@armiealcala7192]

“Forgetting that there is beauty in imperfect candidates” - THIS💜

[@amz_erised3540]

Very well said. RM is the very first Korean Artist that got me curious, fascinated and amazed. I'm 48 years old, married with a son younger than him. I don't have any idea about K-Pop before or South Korea as a whole but everything change when I saw just one video about BTS and I was never the same. Believe me when I say I've never seen a boy group like them even during my teenage years. But what makes them apart? I guess it's their authenticity, their different talents and personalities, their strong friendship and teamwork, their sincere connection to their fanbase but to top of it all, it's the leader with a sexy brain, RM with his amazing perception of fame and clever tactics to survive in a crazy industry.

[@nhinguyen-uz2sq]

Namjoon has always got my attention even before I got into BTS, like I could immediately tell he was the leader without even asking (his aura just screamed "LEADER" to my face lol). Then I watched the UN video and thought to myself "Wow this guy is truly something else, I didn't expect a k-pop group to be like this" Then I started listening to their songs more, read the lyrics, and just couldn't help but blown away with what they have. Personally, I didn't want to get too deep into K-pop because the whole "idol" thing feels so fake, bubbly, and too far away to reach, but BTS made it feel so real, so genuine, and so relatable, they can tell exactly how I'm feeling through their songs. That's exactly the reason why BTS is where they are now untouchable musical mindset, knowledge, passion, and humility. Of all the members, Namjoon is the one I look up to the most, and not in an idol-fan way, but in a role model kind of way. I want to become an incredible person like him, have a mindset like him, be a leader like him, and grow like him. I cannot express how much respect and admiration I have for this man and I'm so glad I found them at the dark time of my life💜

[@shinycheyenne]

RM was an artist before he was an idol. I'll give BigHit credit in allowing Joon and the rest of BTS to do the sound they wanted however Namjoon and the rap line wanting to be ARTISTS is what sets them apart from everyone else. Since then Hybe has not focused on creating solid artists like RM and the rest of BTS. They focused on creating idols. The Kpop industry absolutely cannot and will not ever be able to create a band like BTS ever again unless they actually start trying to cultivate artists with their own self-sustaining drive to create their own art instead of harvesting talented bodies that can perform what's asked of them.

[@annyeongSher]

I 100% agree. There are many great singers, dancers, composers, lyricists, and producers in the world. The biggest difference with BTS is their goal to be artists and creators of something more than standard K-pop. I don't think all the members had this as a goal early on but RM and Suga were role models for this thinking. Now they all strive to grow in areas they may not ordinarily have been interested in. They all recognize that this hiatus and their solo endeavors can bring an important synergy (to use their words) to continue the group's success as well as for themselves individually. All of them want to grow as artists and continue to put their art out into the world. Being a creator is hard work. No true artist stays stagnant by doing the same thing over and over.

[@DualPippa]

It started with TXT. BigHit wanted to try producing a typical idol group. After that, I think they chose to keep the artistry in their production teams. Their music and creative producers happen to have artistic talent, at least judging by their groups' successes. And they do have the groups participate in writing and concept creation. The Hybe kpop groups, even the younger ones, usually have some writing credit.

[@Walklikeaduck111]

Well said

[@annyeongSher]

@@DualPippa I think TXT is great but it is not very accurate to say "it all started" with TXT when TXT debuted in 2019 and BTS debuted in 2013. In 2019 alone BTS won all four Daesangs at the 2019 Mnet Asian Music Awards, making them the artist with the most Daesang wins in Mnet Asian Music Awards history. They also won three AMAs, presented at the Grammys, and won two Billboard awards. By 2019 BTS had won around 250 music program awards globally. By 2019 they had set 9 Guinness World Records, 11 Twitter records, along with numerous chart records.

[@aylablue669]

I've agreed with all your video essays and posts until now. And I'm enjoying this debate you're creating in my mind while watching this. The premise "the next BTS" is a misnomer because there is no next BTS, the next group to reach worldwide acclaim could be any group from any country, the terms we mean are "next global star" and those don't come round every day. The reason we applaud Bang, Son and PDogg is because they gracefully navigated the ridiculous corrupt Korean media system, they tried hard to stick to their morals and principles and kept the BTS members communicating and fulfilled, things the members themselves have told us in interviews. Another genius move was trusting talented teenagers to write their own lyrics and produce parts of the songs. That's why BTS continues to grow in popularity: it's THEIR artistry being shepherded through a tough industry. Bang, Son and PDogg definitely deserve recognition and praise for this: literally none of the other Big 3 companies have managed this successfully despite all the media support in their home country. When those acts go to other countries they receive a moderate amount of success. BTS is different because of all the people who work behind the scenes with them, from day 1 until now, and of course mistakes were made because they're all humans. The music industry is fast paced so what worked ten years ago won't work now, and their success is unprecedented so they're writing history as they move. The member wouldn't have managed this without their team behind them, they all talk about how the staff grafted before they woke up and after they went to sleep and came up with ideas and concepts to enhance the creativity the members showed. They mentored BTS! So the success is a collaboration between industry people and creative youth, and that's why they're so successful. Let the Hybe folks receive their flowers, they deserve it too.

[@claudialuviano2714]

I completely agree. I couldn't have said it any better.

[@shibeani3240]

I agree 100% with you. We can praise BTS and recognise bh OG roles without it meaning we detract something from BTS

[@begood7104]

In terms of company involved, I think this success belongs more to BigHit and the og staff more than HYBE. HYBE was built by BTS but BigHit and their staff helped BTS build themselves up. So there's a vast difference. But other than that, I agree with everything you mentioned. The reason why BTS is able to sustain is because they move with time and don't stay stuck to concepts that don't fit them anymore.

[@simranjahangir2838]

The comment section praising RM makes me cry. I genuinely love this man so much. I hope he knows how much he is loved and appreciated by ARMY.

[@ARMY7.7]

He is our president

[@bts_ot7682]

Army Don't support his music

[@SuperAlternative1]

This is the ABSOLUTE TRUTH. RM is and has always been the linch-pinch, driver and guide of this group. RM and Yoongi were the main writers. But as leader, RM is the true Mastermind behind BTS' success. All members are amazingly talented, creating a Super Group. BTS forever 💜

[@dreamak.flanagan3014]

Hi, I'm Army from Ohio. From what I've seen and experienced, I believe wholeheartedly that "our boys" are the masterminds of their own success. They All worked very hard to get where they are. They seemed to work tirelessly as a group and as individuals. I have only had the privilege of knowing them for about 2 years. I am 62 and I am so proud of them all. I am also very proud to be part of Army. I don't know a whole lot about BTS, but I am trying to learn. I love being a fan. God Bless BTS and ARMY! 🙏💜💜💜💜💜💜💜

[@quantumleap1491]

Same I am an Ohio army too, I’ve been a fan of theirs since their debut and it makes my heart happy that they are so successful, I love them so very much and I am so glad I am able to be alive to see this in my time.

[@nightshadow73]

I agree with the person who said that this was a perfect storm. Most number one groups only have one or two people who are mega superstars and then the rest kind of fill-in behind them. But somehow, BTS got 7 mega superstars to make up their group. That doesn’t come by some mega mastermind. You have God Getting involved at that point.

[@sherryjyj5910]

Genius RM's vision, Suga's Master level producer quality, Jhope leadership, V unique mind, JK amazing talent, Jimin genius eq and Jin supportive presence combine it with all 7 dedication and hard work. And then we have support of hybe and staff

[@nightshadow73]

@@sherryjyj5910 I mean you have to remember that mr. bang wanted to get rid of Jim. He didn’t see Jimin’s potential it was his staff who kept him. Anybody calling him a mastermind I think is stretching it. However, what I do think he excels at is working and planning a good year to two years in advance. BTS is always working ahead of the game. They are flexible to the situation but these guys plana lot in advance and it allows them to accomplish much

[@DualPippa]

​@@nightshadow73 You have to remember that Bang PD was staking his finances on this group. Just like you have favorites and preferences, he did too. But at the end of it, he trusted his team, who believed Jimin should be in the group. He was the CEO, his money was on the line and he could have done what he wanted. But he chose to go with his team's choice.

[@DualPippa]

​@@nightshadow73 Do you think the other trainees weren't talented too? I'm sure that's why it was tough. Go and listen to Jimin's vocal ability back them. He has improved greatly but Bighit had no guarantee back then that he would. On top of that, Jimin was a contemporary dancer trying to learn hip hop. Suga joked that Jimin would rank the near lowest on their tests. Jimin himself said that he struggled with hip hop and still does when the J3 were learning the Butter remix dance. He was not adjusting as easily because of that. You'd see why it was a tough choice back then. You guys don't seem to understand how much he has developed. He put a lot of time and effort in to get here. But Bighit had to take a chance on whether he would put in the work and if his efforts could even change skill level.

[@biru-kelabu-0821]

Yoongi certainly makes better predictions than BSH 😊 Our Minstradamus

[@belaytriks]

I want a new episode of Suchita with him and Jin for his upcomming album!!! 😭 There are not enough episodes of Suchita!!! 😭

[@yennchan69]

i think you the nail on the head. the one thing they did with BTS that they never did again was start with self-made musicians with raw talent like RM and Yoongi, give them resources, and build a group around them. Instead they assemble a team of amateurs, as attractive as possible, and mold them. I think if they go back to finding that raw talent in the wild and bring it in-house to polish, that might actually be the closest they ever get to the "next BTS," or rather an international-level breakout star. Singing, dancing pretty boys and girls are a dime a dozen who can even tell them apart?

[@KootchLB]

Maybe it's because it's damn hard to find talent like Namjoon and Yoongi. And find five people with different talents but the same drive and integrity to form around them? As Yoongi said, that was fate.

[@rz7966]

I agree with your opinion. K-pop is indigestible boredom in the long run. I think TXT was conceived as a group animed at the US and European audience, which resulted in moderate popularity in Korea (and an unsatisfactory amount of awards). Now (I get the impression) they are in a crisis because they are trying to please everyone, but it just dosen't work. Onlynone group can do it, and it has long caesed to be K-pop.

[@theresaf3688]

“While so many people have spent time scratching their heads about how BTS became such a global phenomenon, the answer is truly not that difficult. The group was born of and always guided by a love for music and performance, rooted in the spirit of a nineteen year old kid who had a vision of scoring the good, the bad, the ugly, and the joy of youth. RM deserves to know that he succeeded.” -Consequence of Music Magazine

[@susank2283]

Thank you for another interesting analysis. Bang PD might not be a mastermind, however he was the key to BTS's survival and growth. He also nurtured them (a relationship he doesn't have with any of the other groups) and helped them get through hard times (behind the scenes). BTS also didn't start out with thinking they could get into the BB hot 100. They tried to be the best they could be. They worked together through all the hardship...they became family. Even though the rapline composed a lot of early songs, they collaborated with the vocal line...worked as a team. They encouraged the maknaes to listen to all types of music to broaden their knowledge and curiosity...to make them better artists. It was lucky that RM was the first member and that he was somewhat fluent in English. As Yoongi says, without RM's ability to communicate in English, they would have had a difficult time in the West. There is no formulas to repeat what happened to BTS...the right mix of people, the right time in history, etc. Also there was no pressure, except internally, for them to achieve global success. Perhaps there's too much pressure on TxT to make it big (they are growing). They are the only group, I think, under BigHit. All the other groups are under the HYBE umbrella. End my ramblings. Thanks again.

[@dinahmahlman-hl1ie]

Love your thoughtful work, as always! A related point that I've been thinking about is how people are looking for the 'next BTS' -- as if there's a formula. One of the reasons why BTS works is that they were (eventually) given the freedom to be themselves. Led by Namjoon, they create from their hearts and the music reflects that. I believe this authentic human connection is why BTS music speaks to so many people from all over the world. The only way to have sustainable, long-term success is to create from a place of sincerity... If you try to be someone else or chase after someone else's achievements, it just won't work.

[@noemibernal4882]

Sincerity is indeed the key word that RM says is the most meaningful for what BTS offer as artists

[@soulmagicinspirations]

You are so right, their music is from the heart and others pick up on that its authentuc, heartfelt creative, They are truly Earth Angels spreading love and compassion. They are such beautiful souls and ppl feel that. Their music is amazing and they as ppl are amazing such humble comedy genuis*s who share with Army all that they are. I am so grateful to have found them back in 2018, Their musuc and them as ppl has enhanced my life and so many others love those guys 💜

[@KootchLB]

Hobi has a scene where he was giving advice to some trainees and he said that sincerity is the most important thing for them.

[@jenjin9492]

RM - Rap Monster ❌️ RM - Real Me ❌️ RM - Real Mastermind ✅️ Hehe 😅

[@SoulPatroller]

Standing ovation for this one! You really hit the nail on the head!

[@alkim1519]

Exactamente.

[@1Uni7]

I was going to say the same, and its curious how nobody have talked about this yet

[@em5522]

Ddaeng, some ppl really don't know how a team works anymore. Anyways, one thing I admire abt BTS's team is how loyal and supportive they have been to the growth and development of BTS as their own artists. For years, they've acted as mentors, collaborators, and supporters bc they really believe in the guys and their music. On the flip side, BTS also should have credit that they clearly earned that respect as fellow colleagues in this industry to have these ppl stick with them like this for so long.

[@duduzilemelodysimelane7034]

BTS members always thank RM for their BILLBOARD/US success, that says a lot

[@heathermurray7130]

There are two things I think are overlooked here. First it's others calling the team around BTS "masterminds" not the team calling themselves that. It's others creating this unrealistic title and expectation that the team shouldn't have to adhere to (and it also undermines the hard work being put in by everyone). This mastermind narrative plays into the misconception that BTS and their success is manufactured and therefore is repeatable. So it's not really fair to drag them for not creating "the next BTS" especially if that isn't their goal. I think this should be reframed - there isn't a "problem with" the team behind BTS there is a "problem with" the media framing of BTS's success. Second. People need to remember that it isn't just the management team who got BTS success on the charts, it's also BTS and ARMY. Ultimately, we are the ones buying and streaming. I'm not saying this to be conceited. But we are a very important part of this equation. BTS didn't come out the gate as the biggest band in the world, they grew into it, and ARMY grew with them, because the focus was on developing their unique voice, artistry, quality and connection, not "getting on the charts". Put the focus on those things.

[@KootchLB]

That's why in a press conference when RM was asked what he attributed their success to, he said 50% is ARMY. They never forget.

[@biru-kelabu-0821]

I agree with your first point, but disagree with the second point. If the question was about who contributed to BTS's success, then yes, ARMY has a large hand in that. But the question discussed in this video is about who's the mastermind. ARMY didn't come up with the concept of the group or their albums or their songs or their lyrics. So I'd say, no, ARMY is not the mastermind behind BTS.

[@heathermurray7130]

@@biru-kelabu-0821 I actually agree with you. However, my second point was not really in response to the main premise, it was related to the discussion about other idols wanting to be on the billboard charts and especially the Hot 100. The framing in this video implies, at least in part, that one of the measures to judge if Bang PD, and Pdogg, etc. are "masterminds" is their ability to replicate BTS's chart success with groups like TXT and Seventeen. And they haven't. My argument is, that Bora doesn't address a key component in the equation of what produces chart success, especially when you are trying to do it without playlisting and payola. My critique is that she puts too much focus/accountability on the management/producers without factoring in the fan base. I don't think ARMY is the mastermind. I do agree with her conclusion that Joon is the keystone. Ultimately though I don't believe there is one "mastermind" behind BTS's success. It takes all three factors - smart and creative management/production + exceptionally talented and hardworking artists + a loyal and active fan base.

[@biru-kelabu-0821]

@@heathermurray7130 - Ah I see! Thank you for elaborating. Your argument makes a lot of sense.

[@rmisapoet4983]

Agree with the first point. The "Mastermind behind BTS" articles in the Western press are due to the prejudiced view they have of boybands, and especially K-pop groups, as being manufactured. They don't view boybands as artists; my friends scoff when I tell them BTS are songwriters and don't believe me. That's also why they're unwilling to nominate or award BTS for serious Western music awards.

[@Classical-Fairy]

I hate when people act like these people are the reason of BTS ' success. I know that they (the " masterminds ") are the one who "collected" BTS ' members and discovered their talents , but ABSOLUTLY BTS are their own reason of their whole carrier. they made their songs they trained they dances they rapped they sang they worked hardly they faced all the h@te and crtsm ALONE! if the agency make any mistakes they blame BTS , anything wrong with kpop they blaim BTS . these seven legends paved the way for themselves and others u cannot say no to these facts. (it's like u collect the pokemons and then say that u just created them )

[@Sherluck93]

Please forgive me... 🙏 They have their stickers on their carriers! 💜

[@FB18Ben]

Sorry, but "they made their songs"? They for sure had their involvement in them (some more than others), but ARMYs are always portraying BTS's music as 100% member-produced which it just factually isn't.

[@user-lt3fh1dq3y]

BTS 뒤에서 돕는 기획제작자들도 BTS를 스스로 생각하고 성장하는 데 많은 도움을 주었다. BTS는 늘 프로듀싱&제작진들을 자신의 한부분으로 인정해왔음을 알엠의 말로 알 수 있다. 단지 그들이 BTS를 만든 절대적 전제조건이 아닐뿐! BTS는 스스로 성장했고 그들은 기회를 제공했다. (요즘 특히 SM방식의 공장형 인형돌을 만드는 제작자들은 아이돌의 위에서 그들을 조정한다. 예: 민희진의 뉴진스/이또한 민희잔만의 힘은 아니고 제작진-자금+프듀+스텝+여러 제반여건제공 )

[@Sherluck93]

@@FB18Ben Army does not do that, neither does BTS or their company. But BTS have final say and huge involvement in the process. They also always credit everybody involved. So, to start an argument like this is baseless.

[@eileencritchley4630]

The thing is the idea that Bang is the the mastermind behind doesn't come from him it come's from outsiders who say it because they don't understand he understood RM and saw he was the real deal and had the sense to take a back seat and listen to RM. That take's special kind of person genius in his own way a forward thinker he see's things many others don't that's why he and RM are good together they are the perfect storm in the teacup along with all the members. It's a team situation rather than a Producer CEO always leading from the front and making all the decisions someone who is willing to let of his ego and try to look ahead. He recoginses the issues when you listen to Bang he tell things that the Kpop Industry just does NOT want to hear and does not want to accept. Like he said he doesn't know how to create another group like BTS as he's no idea where or how to find people like them again. People like RM and the other members are once in a life time group of people. I don't doubt Bang and HYBE with BTS help will continue to make good groups but will they ever be at the same standard as BTS not very likely but they will be have a good measure of success and if you have enough of groups at that level you are not going to fail as long as they kept out people like MHJ

[@ckim3926]

Firstly, RM should have won the Grammy for his albums. I agree, HE is the one. I remember when BSH mentioned how Seventeen’s popularity growth was similar to that of BTS, I looked them up and watched their performances, Vlives, etc. To me, they don’t look or sound any different than the typical Kpop artists/performers and since then I wondered what was BSH up to? But what do I know I’m only a consumer and an observer. However, in my personal view, BTS is different in every way. If I point out every single detail of those differences, I would have to write an in-dept report - not going there…maybe later. I can say now, even with having a major bias toward one member of the BTS, I am also OT7. My bias shines brightly, but that shine is amplified when he is with his members. Each of those members do not take any shine away from each other, they actually make each other shine even brighter together (OMG remember the constellation in MAMA 2017?!). That is the greatest achievement I have ever seen any bands out there in history.

[@rhyker9597]

Don’t put down Seventeen because someone compared them to BTS. They are not a “typical” k-pop group as you characterize them(god ARMY are so arrogant) they have their own really hard come from nothing history. Seventeen also have their own musical/artistic genius in Woozi(writes and produces all their music). They are far from typical and do not follow trends. Just because they are not BTS(no one is) does not mean they aren’t great in their own right. BTS is not the only talented group out there.

[@Itsme-wy9vh]

You have a point about 17. They’ve tried hard to make changes since joining hybe tho. If you watched the suchwita episode with the 17 member, he said they follow closely what BTS does. They watched all BTS award show performances and online concerts, made flashy stage performances with lots of backup dancers, and they even made their own version of run BTS. I think it worked to some extent but any popularity growth they had was limited to Korea/asia and wasn’t enough for them to enter the hot100 much less get them the #1 they wanted. BSH keeps wanting another success story in the US whether it’s 17 or txt but it probably won’t ever happen for him again and he should stop embarrassing himself and everyone else lol.

[@aldueso3]

No one cannot repeat the seven…their personalities, their humbleness, their struggles, their determination, the sharing of themselves, their hard work, and them together…all this for ARMY💜💜💜

[@im.margery]

That's why all the pressure was on him. Imagine being RM, just a kid with a dream. His long journey through trainee days must have been so hard, and even after debut, it was still tough. It was a long, painful, but devine journey for him. So, I really respect RM because his story taught me to never give up. Resilience is the key to success.

[@cynthiaperez2232]

Wasn't there a time when Bang PD and the staff went on a retreat and rethought the way they had been operating? I believe it was early on, after the early groups but before 2015. They took some time to rethink how Kpop companies had been operating and decided to change the way they interacted with fans, etc. I do think that made a big difference.

[@bluchismoon]

I know why hybe (or more specifically Bang pd) lets the media call him the mastermind behind BTS. It's basically marketing. Cause it seems very clear that Bang PD is aware that he isnt so much a mastermind as the one who was able to help bring the group together. He said himself luck and timing were big in it all. However, it does seem like the company hasn't realized that they SHOULD move away from the basic kpop formula for their other groups. The biggest thing they need is not aesthetics (physical or musical) to appeal to fans, they need more substance. And it would be good for them to do that by bringing people with interesting visions together. The artistry is most important for the music, but they also need good people in their groups, and GOOD people managing them as well.

[@bluchismoon]

Also, I just want to point out that K-pop fans are kind of sad. They won't go the extra mile for these artists they claim to Stan because they've accustomed themselves to spreading their attention between so many groups. It's less like having a fandom and more being casuals for all of them.

[@roguechevelle]

I've actually thought why don't they acquire or sign some amazing soloists? If they feel kpop is on a downward trend (which let's be real it will uptick again when BTS comes back cuz they've been holding up the industry while others ride their coat-tails) then trying soloists not groups is a more reasonable option.

[@eveyy_xo]

@@roguechevelle I agree!! I feel like it would be so much easier to market a solo artist than a group, especially in the u.s market.

[@BoraBaeOT7]

@@bluchismoon I don’t think he has any more control over what the media calls him than Suga had all last month. He does correct the narrative when given the opportunity. He’s constantly giving the credit to the boys. Do you guys not watch his interviews?

[@Dinonugget06]

​​​​@@BoraBaeOT7 don't take this as negative but when articles regarding him came out, we all saw how fast they were took down but that's cause, as some 'armys' like to say they were fake, that's why bsh's articles were removed fast but honestly weren't yoongi's articles also just media taking out their frustrations on bts, making big out of nothing, jtbc literally apologized for spreading fake news. so i don't think it was that hard to take down articles of yoongi too.

[@Lovewinsall64]

They can’t be deleted from the history of BTS but boy were they lucky when they found RM and Suga. Without those two members, there would be no BTS now.

[@bluehourtarot]

100%

[@pher8487]

And J-Hope

[@dg9627]

Wow, well done! I agree with your conclusion. RM doesn’t get enough credit for all the things he has done not only for BTS but also for Hybe. That’s why he is the best leader.

[@be.the.light.2107]

My young niece was an avid K-Pop listener. Psy and Rain were two of her favorites. Yup. I am old. The music was catchy and entertaining. But not something I would listen to on a regular basis. I remember coming across BTS by chance- really random. I was amazed that a young man (RM) could communicate so well between the host(s) and translate for his members. Stable, seemingly mature, intelligent and responsible. Without RM, during those hard, initial years, would the other members be able to articulate, translate and promote themselves and their music confidently and solidly abroad? I wonder? RM created the atmosphere where the members could be their funny selves - his witty sense of humor and their playfulness. Personally, I credit RM for being the bridge needed in BTS success - giving the group credibility by displaying intelligence in his words and drawing people to listen. I did not enjoy rap music. However, I enjoy listening to RM and love his mixtapes and albums - BTS rapline are amazing! Now that the other members are more confident, and highly successful, they do not rely on RM. They learn English and do their best to speak up for themselves. RM had tried his best to speak for the group and he has tried to have them speak up in the past. This is only one part of RM’s contribution in their success. It has nothing to do with Bang PD, PDogg or their dance instructors and behind the scenes people. This was all RM speaking and answering questions. It was his ability to communicate. I don’t expect ARMY to love all seven equally or to agree with me. I just hope that ARMY will show respect, compassion and appreciation to RM because he honestly deserves it. Just like how each member had something that they contributed and should be appreciated for. RM is the only member that mainly spoke when they were abroad without a translator. Would they have had a chance at international success without him? My opinion only from viewing BTS over the years. Be kind and loving to all members of BTS please.

[@ananyaa6664]

💜

[@nit05]

bang had a dream. he created bts with help with other professionals. the real mastermind behind bts are bts themselves. focus was not on how much we can make. its i love music, love performing, we love our fans and the fans love us. fan and artist give and take equally. rm would not a decision without the other 6 input. this is why i say all ot7 are the mastermind. rm is the glue that gels everyone.

[@Hbora0613]

Thank you so much for this video. RM needs more appreciation fr

[@joanduffie1707]

I agree 100%; Namjoon is the creative genius behind their success. All of the members are very talented and this group got along so well that they could just cross pollinated. Hopefully, BTS can with stand maturity and marriages and continue sharing their talent with us as a group.

[@17cutejaci]

Without reducing other members contributions to their success, I dare say, without RM, BTS would have been just any other Kpop groups. The reason why all the attempts of the Kpop industry to produce another BTS failed is because they do not have RM in them. Let’s admit it and give him his much deserved recognition. RM has a strong voice that can win over Bang PD and it is always proven that his vision is right. For example, he wrote a song for TXT. Bang PD wanted another song as a title track but RM fought for his song and said it would be the one most fitted as a title track. TXT members mentioned Bang PD and RM had an argument and RM won and he was proven right ‘coz the song was really a hit. He has that ability to see what will be a hit or not that no one has. When Jhope left, RM was able to convince BigHit that they needed him. Let us talk about what members always say. They always say, without RM, they would have not achieved greater success especially in the US. As Suga mentioned, it would have been impossible without RM. Jin mentioned that “RM is BTS.” Jimin said RM always made them think the importance of a group which may mean he inspired them to always think as one, thus, the very close relationship they have. Let us not forget that when Jin joined BigHit, RM talked with him and said he had great visions for the group and would want 100% commitment from him. Let us not forget, RM compiled songs and had the members listened to them ‘coz he thinks singers should know wide range of music. The said compilation is used by HYBE today as part of their training of their groups. There are a lot and I could not mention one by one. RM’s solo music proves how musically great he is and he has that ability to spot talented people and what works for each song. Indeed, RM is the luck that BigHit got. I just hope ARMYs appreciate and support him more. Let’s be honest, despite everything he has done and producing such beautiful songs, still, many do not support him. He is the most underrated and the most unappreciated member. We cannot even praise him without others shoving their preferred members to our throats. I hope you guys recognize him more. Whether you accept it or not, he is the main reason BTS exists.

[@minsugamaxsalt]

@@17cutejaci Hi do you remember which txt song became the title track?

[@Auroraarmy]

All the credit for BTS's success goes to BTS alone, but I am very grateful to the staff, producers, choreographers and everyone who has been involved with them since the beginning. They deserve all the success and recognition because they worked hard and made it all happen.

[@niharikad8617]

I love that hybe training documentary where they talk about how they molded their training system based on namjoon's work. How he and yoongi would prioritize music and make the members listen to a wide variety of songs. He is the backbone, the real mastermind of bts and hybe and modern kpop.

[@csdsa]

Namjoon was always the key. His already pre-existing talent for actually picking up a pen and songwriting set the foundations for everything to follow. BTS is special because that was their foundation, and they continued on with rapline producing and writing for themselves, messages that THEY wanted to convey, messages that they could write and have meaning. It’s so crazy that everyone and their mamas keep trying to “reproduce” BTS’ success and fame-and yet they miss the one step: seek out actual artists who write and create their own. Everyone (even HYBE) continues to pick members based on visuals and dancing and singing abilities (most of the time ONLY visuals and dance… or only visuals…) and they think that giving these groups pre-written songs to perform is what will replicate BTS. They’re so wrong. And it makes it funnier to see group after group fail to see a spec of BTS’ exposure and success. It is OKAY for groups and fans to hope they’ll reach BTS’ level, however… What can you expect when those groups don’t even write for themselves? When they’re not artists/creators, just performers? Being solely a performer makes you/group so much more replaceable (look what happened to 50/50 too). Being your own artist and writer means you can’t be replaced: this is exactly what Namjoon did, and by finding people who supported Namjoon’s vision and artistry, you make a group like BTS that is based on genuine artistry. Not only was Namjoon the foundation for their success, but his LEADERSHIP and how he nurtured the group, teaching them music/hiphop… That’s what created the culture and brotherhood between them that we know and love, which has made fans all over the world, and an undying loyalty.

[@mavissa349]

I would like to add, being a multistan, that there are other groups who DO write, including the other male group under Big Hit itself, TXT. However, TXT's storyline/universe is so rigidly controlled, that A LOT of their creative input and lyrics have been thrown out. Just a subtle readjust to your otherwise spot-on points.

[@csdsa]

@@mavissa349 I don’t know much about TXT, but respectfully (honestly!), a lot of kpop members contribute small amounts of writing to songwriting so that they can be named songwriters to add flare to their careers - for example, there is a video of NewJeans showing how they contributed just one line… and that’s enough to have “songwriter” in their bag for fans to tout them as songwriters. Again, I don’t know TXT, but from what I see right now with Yeonjun being recruited as the first it seems like he was recruited because he was a talented trainee (dance, singing, etc) but not necessarily because he was a writer! Which is totally okay! And I hope that it’s true that they’ve grown into songwriting and creating on their own (they are very talented and I do like them most amongst most other groups). But again, it’s so very different than what happened with BTS. I have not seen any other group formed the way BTS was formed with literal songwriters and rappers who write and produce their own stuff from scratch, THEN cultivated a group around that. Again, nothing against TXT, and I’m mostly speaking in a general sense! But I think the kpop industry as awhile formulates these debut groups around flashiness and visuals first and THEN hope that it grows into something genuine, but if the foundation isn’t set, there’s only so much fans can connect w any artist if they aren’t actually involved in their music and work. Again, I do like TXT and wish them the best! I think after BTS, they have a very organic growth despite having the BTS/BigHit privilege! (ie they don’t fake or fluff up their own success or numbers the way, say, BlackPink does lmfao)

[@anju5124]

I often feel like his is the most underappreciated solo career, even though he seems to create meaningful, thoughtful masterpieces. 💜💫

[@Walklikeaduck111]

His music will stand the test of time.

[@anju5124]

@@Walklikeaduck111 I feel the same!

[@Keychainzxx]

Adding the fact that Namjoon created playlists for the BTS members to listen with different artists in various genres in order to help them wide. their musical knowledge and how those playlists are now used by HYBE as a system for training and development with their trainees. Reference: YT video; Hybe T&D stories Part 4 And Tae mentioned it before on a live or documentary

[@MewDenise]

Bighit's motto seem to have always been "potential" and now outsiders are saying that's bad?? Look... you can sing like Beyonce but be a fish on stage.

[@bourjoism3917]

True

[@ajlee2168]

well said, and wow what a beautiful example lol

[@belaytriks]

But we have saw the dissaster that happens when you are fire on the stage but sing like a fish. Balance, as always, is the key, you need talent and skill, untrained, unrefined potential or without any direction is the same as no potential at all.

[@joannah3334]

Yes!!!! We all need to give Kim Namjoon his flowers 💐💐💐 The true genius mind that has changed the industry. He has earned and deserves all the love and praise.💜

[@CaribbeanLady77]

Hello Boracity! 👋🏽 I’m excited to see what you’ve got in store for us today!

[@pishposhhh5211]

I hope Namjoon sees this video and realises how many lives he saved with his words! The utmost respect for you Mr.President!

[@Layss2023]

not a BTS fan but I think the reason how they got this big was not because of bang PD, it's BTS themselves, their story, message and art they put out to the audience that's why a lot of fans or people resonate with them besides, I think they weren't aiming to be go global in the first place, they just want people to recognize them and prove them that they are here to stay

[@Alia3112A]

Rm you saved lifes of many , you're so loved

[@lypark65]

I totally agree with you. Namjoon is once in a lifetime artist, leader, human. Bighit producers were lucky to find him and sign him first.

[@mydramaspace8240]

Really loved this video. I feel like it's something that isn't spoken about as often as it should be, crediting the role that Namjoon had to play in BTS' growth. All of the members are incredible, hard-working, talented people and it truly feels like fate and serendipity led them all to each other (or as you mentioned, convinced them to stay regardless of the countless reasons to leave). And its crazy to think that Namjoon was only 16 - when I was 16, i wouldnt have dared to even think of being responsible for anyone except myself. All the Hybe groups are, as you said, talented, hard-working and make good music- but they cannot achieve what BTS has achieved. In trying to not be what K-pop has always been, Hybe today unfortunately does fall prey to being exactly that. Loved this video, thanks so much for making it!

[@gretchend6823]

Once again you pull so many facts together to see the patterns and bring us a cohesive, interesting and pertinent discussion. Thank you. 💜

[@karishacosta]

What most people fail to understand is that this formula has very unique characteristics that are not able to be replicated. They as individuals are special however as a unit they are remarkable. There’s no way to get this again. It’s a one of a kind miracle.

[@NinaMarie7]

I aggree 100000000% and it is so frustrating that Namjoon doesn't get more credit for everything he does (him and suga as a genius creative team really, but namjoons leadership is so key). It took me watching one log of his to see how he was different even as they were just starting. there is a different energy in young bts bc they were bold and excited and hungry to prove themselves and regardless of who wrote or produced what you could feel and see how they each made the songs and their careers their own and had a lot of passion not just for the achievements or fame but for the process of being and becoming better entertainers and pushing themselves. it is good to aim high but entitlement can be a big turn off and some of the newer groups get a bit ahead of themselves and don't seem as into their actual career and art as they are into the idea of fame, wealth and accolades. sure suga and rm would talk about awards and money and clearly wanted them, but it was because they wanted their music recognized and to have more opportunities for their band, not just for the sake of the awards. you watch RM talk at any age and see his passion and thoughtfulness for his art and how to blend the artistic side with the commercial. I hate that he pressures himself so much and has so much stress, but he really is a once in a lifetime genius and his mind combined with the other members' also ICONIC 'it' factors is lightening in a bottle. you can't create the next bts because bts are uniquely special in who they are, their stories, their bond, their unique voices, their energies...they are way more than i feel hybe give them credit for sometimes. I kind of feel like it's a side effect of dynamite taking off like it did...they feel like the trick is english pop songs, but I was there at the time and the energy after map of the soul 7 and before dynamite was electric too...they would have had a hit whatever the next single was and that's the difference too, these new groups think it is easy bc bts made it look easy, but bts were steadily building a die-hard audience lonnnnngggg before they expected a hot 100 #1. it feels like hybe sometimes buys the american hype of dynamite/butter too much and listens to the wrong people bc it didn't get big only because of the song or english lyrics or marketing but also because of the love ARMY had built for the bts members by then so it feels like they try to replicate some of the wrong things and tbh they almost can't win because its a bit too transparent that they /are/ trying to replicate bts' story on a speed run so that obvious kind of desperate grasp at the kind of success bts has steals from the enjoyment of the unique path and story that these new groups should be building. everyone and their mom being too sure they can just waltz in and get a top 20 just because they want one can come across as ungrateful and clueless not respecting exactly how big and difficult to obtain these landmark moments are for anyone let alone people releasing their first few albums without much radio or audience to stream when people don't really know them yet...it took bts years and when they got there it was because they had been lovingly gaining ground...it wasn't one hit that made them and that's also why they won't be replaced. (though i'm sure american producers over-promise in their own cockiness and misinterpretations and ideas that kpop is big too bc bts is big.)

[@mavissa349]

Well said. ❤

[@shireenedoo1978]

I love how it all came down to our leader and his sexy brain .. he is indeed THE mastermind behind BTS .. gotta love the sexy brain president of Boraland Kim Namjoon aka RM 👏👏👏👏🥰🥰🥰🥰💜💜💜💜💜💜💜

[@Belbecat]

I also want to say that I kinda feel bad for these kpop groups with fandoms that push them to try get to BTS level, when not even BTS wanted to be at BTS level lol if they aim too low the fans get upset but aiming so high just makes them look so silly because it aint happening. On top of that the entire western music industry is kinda imploding altogether, kinda feels like everyone is racing to jump in to a swamp that BTS themselves are climbing out of with their solo releases focusing on music rather than trends, records or accolades.

[@joemsgee8647]

So true. BTS RM and the rest of the members are the masterminds behind their success. It's their love for music, artistry and performance that made them different from all those who are blinded by popularity and success. BTS CORE is MUSIC and ARMY.

[@eap-fj]

Thank you for this and all your thoughtful and insightful videos. Namjoon is the HEART, SPIRIT AND SOUL OF BTS. His leadership goes way beyond nurturing the team. He is indeed the masterful mind and master essence of BTS. The BigHit technicians and management are important but they need to stop inflating their importance over BTS's individual and group contributions to their success. They "enabled' BTS but are not solely responsible for their results. NAMJOON has effectively guided BTS to find their individual and collective thoughts, actions and perceptions -- by taking them musically with him through his own humble unearthing of his philosophies on life, ethics, culture and art. BTS members each bring their own strong magic to the group but Namjoon is its core.

[@zeromega4541]

It's extremely difficult to replicate success on BTS's level. This doesn't just happen with kpop groups. It happens with American groups as well. The only label to do it consistently was Motown records but they had a signature sound. Nowadays if a group is too similar to another group on their label they would be dragged by the media and fans. So you basically have to do the impossible twice but not use the formula that made you successful the first time.

[@JoonieDimplesObssesed_ARMY]

Namjoon truly is the backbone of BTS. No BTS without this amazing and smart leader! BTS succeeded because of the 7 talented, sincere, hardworking people. I don't disagree about Bang si hyuk contributing in making this group this big, but the members are the main characters here. Each and every 7 members with their very own and unique talent. Sucessful as group and as soloists. They are the ultimate kings. 👑💜

[@amkgvideos]

i think it's also important to remember that even under one giant label, each operate generally on their own accord. so i think it's important to remember that when other groups promote, it's still source/pledis/ Bighit etc... ppeople complain about hbe but should remember that they do their own thing.

[@leahwarburton]

Yes, Namjoon played - and still plays - a major role. But we mustn't discount the contributions of Min Yoongi. Remember, when Jimin was unsure if BTS was the right fit for him, it was Yoongi's words that made him realise there was a place for him. And Yoongi who convinced the Training and Development team to let Jimin sing - they wanted him to be another rapper/dancer. And the guys have mentioned numerous times that Yoongi liaised with the Training and Development team (and Management in general) a lot. And he obviously had their respect, because they usually listened to him. Also, remember American Hustle life and THAT event between Jin and...Dante. Yoongi went to management, and made it clear Dante...was unsuitable, shall we say. And he disappeared (from the show). But I think - even with Namjoon and Yoongi, if the other seven weren't who they are, it wouldn't have worked. The reason the success - the Effect - of BTS will never be replicated, is simple, and fundamental. There is only ONE Kim Namjoon; only ONE Min Yoongi; only ONE Kim Seokjin; ONE Jung Hoseok; only ONE Park Jimin; ONE Kim Taehyung; and only ONE Jeon Jungkook. Seven unique and talented individuals, with personalities and skills that meshed well, came together to create something UNIQUE. Something that will never be replicated. Because the individuals that make up BTS are unique, and will never be replicated. Management may have created the circumstances that brought them together, but it was ALL SEVEN who created BTS. If any member had been changed at the outset BTS WOULD NOT BE WHAT IT IS TODAY. It's simple. But also so very complex. So many things had to align to bring every -the MEMBERS and MANAGEMENT - together, in a struggling company (and the importance of that fact can not be underestimated), for BTS to become Who, and What, they are today. Every member has played a unique, and pivotal role, at some point, in making BTS what it is today. Remove any single factor, and the whole thing crumbles. and BTS would never have been the BTS we know and love.

[@__preet]

They don't understand that its not hybe but BTS theyre the one who created this magic offcourse i wont take the credit away from bighit staff they deserve their brownies but ppl dont realise that bts members write nd create their own music the rapline is doing it from the start bts have this determination to make good music and a hardworking mindset which is why they're different from all these groups also Special thankyou to kim namjoon our leader as a society we dont give enough credit to him but he's definitely the one who created BTS what they're today along with rest of the members 💟💟

[@nightshadow73]

I will also like to offer that BTS message is different than any other artist out there. With the exception of Golden, , all other BTS projects talk about how valuable people are. They may explore the pain of being treated like you are disposable but they never promote That people are disposable. That is not the norm in the music business. And I don’t think it was a coincidence that BTS was hitting the stride of their success as the pandemic hit. when people desperately needed to feel valuable and not alone BTS was there reminding them that they mattered. Not to put two final point on it, most other artists don’t do that.

[@ksol920]

Before she even mentioned Namjoon, I was thinking Namjoon. So glad we're all on the same page. I also always wondered why the groups after BTS were kinda "meh." Not in a bad way, just... missing something. It makes sense now. Edit to add: We should NOT compare every group in HYBE to BTS.

[@byeoldeul-ege]

In the T & D videos released by Hybe, the head of the department mentioned that they created a system around RM's playlist idea. When they were trainees, RM would give a set of songs for the members to listen to. V, Jimin and JK have mentioned this. And now Hybe trainees would have to listen to different genres of music as part of their training program. All thanks to RM's idea.

[@kalina1871]

THE QUEEN POSTED!! and like always, I agree with everything you said in this video. I never thought about it too much, but you’re right. without RM, there wouldn’t be BTS.

[@theresaf3688]

Oh you ate 💯🔥 RM really makes the difference between BTS and the rest

[@kitix524]

Yessss... that's why RM is the best leader there is... his artistry is amazing... he led BTS to be what they are now... a successful group and solo artists

[@juliemaiifanai8365]

Girlll, you're always spitting straight facts 🎉 I was smiling throughout your video. Yes! A toast to our president, KIM NAMJOON! 💜💜👏🏻👏🏻

[@melanyblake1470]

All these comments are beautifully descriptive words. These comments need to go into a book of beautiful, inspiring and creative descriptions of BTS, such unique and never before seen or heard. I think y'all are, with reason, missing our guys something bad.

[@carriewhite5241]

Perfect analysis. I can't even come up with something else to add! Thank you so much for putting this together.

[@amounachan3500]

Thank you bora I love you and support you your videos are masterpieces I appreciate all of them thank you again 💜💜💜💜💜borahea

[@xianxi1609]

Clearly it's a bit of both, without good music you don't get anywhere, and the good thing is that their music and the members were able to connect with people.

[@AngelaSealana]

I generally agree that RM is the key factor, but he was also the key in the right lock -- the right environment with the right people, and the right fans. He has almost said it himself when he explained the attribution percentage breakdown of an award the group receives. I have worked on many creative situations and teams, and although there are key people, in reality the entire team and situation has to support the overall execution and promotion of the creative ideas. That's just how creative collaboration works. BTS has had the perfect storm. As you've stated well in your videos, no one can replicate their story.

[@ParKbgtn7]

Oh you ate! "Lack of understanding of thr industry" dayum

[@schafferable]

It all comes from Namjoon who inspires ideas and now they all think a little like him. You are who you hang out with. There is not a group like them in the world and even though there are great Kpop bands coming out they just don't meet the same mark. It is a once in a life time phenomenom

[@DraganaJ]

I loved this video. You’ve really hit the nail on the head. Absolutely no hate to the people that worked along with bts since the beginning, but they provided important support. That’s all. The structure is made up by the boys, and Namjoon is the load bearing pillar.

[@fatimaalkamoosi6578]

The masterminds behind BTS success are BTS themselves It’s a combination of talent, personality, sincerity and hard work. But that also doesn’t cancel the others contribution because I imagine if they debuted in any other label would they have the liberty to make their own music and talk about their own stories or will they be forced to sing ra ta ta bum songs? Would they be able to be their selves and connect with fans honestly without being asked to fake anything? Would they have a healthy environment to actually be friends and eventually becoming a family? The talk of the next BTS and thinking who were behind them are able to create another BTS is foolish for me because BTS’s success is because of BTS themselves BUT they still got lucky with the ppl behind them, they helped them and they were supportive to them but they weren’t the main reason

[@sagebird1]

RM was the reason I started listening to BTS. His song Still Life and the music video was the beginning of my journey. As a visual artist I appreciated his sense and ability to create, express, and deliver a living canvas with each work of art. It encompasses the poem, the movement, the sound, and the visual elements of a masterpiece. From his album Indigo I move next to JHope, then one by one explored the entire group. Each member presents their unique style while also providing glimpses into the History of music, art, film, personality, culture, and medicine so necessary for healing the minds and souls of others. Their honesty, hard work and love of their many Armies is reflected in their willingness to share their stories, mistakes, vulnerabilities, talent and respect. Their global phenomena is a result of Armies dedication and love which is the foundation which propels them to achieve the level of masterpieces such as those of Da Vinci, Michael Angelo, Warhol, Michael Jackson, etc. The world is their canvas. 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜🎆