Writer: Isha Chaudhary
Editor: Arpita Jena
BTS: The Journey from Underestimated Trainees to Global Icons
When BTS debuted on June 13, 2013, no one imagined that seven boys from a small company would one day redefine global pop culture. They did not come from privilege, a powerful entertainment giant, or a country dominating the global music scene. What they had instead was hunger, ambition, and a stubborn perseverance that refused to break.
Picture Credit: VARIETY
Humble Beginnings: The Pre-Debut Struggle
The BTS story began long before their debut, inside a cramped practice room at BigHit Entertainment—a company so small that people often joked about its survival. Bang Si-hyuk, the founder, believed idols should be more than polished performers. He wanted artists who could express real stories, and that vision shaped the group from the start.
- RM, the first trainee, became the foundation of BTS. His leadership and honesty guided the team even before a formal lineup existed.
- Suga, who worked part-time jobs to support himself, joined with a sharp ear for storytelling.
- J-Hope, who left home with nothing but passion for dance, completed the rap line and brought unmatched energy.
- Jin, originally an acting student, stepped into the idol world with quiet determination.
- Jimin, the final trainee, pushed himself relentlessly to catch up.
- V, who accidentally auditioned, joined unexpectedly yet became an essential piece.
- Jungkook, the youngest, chose BigHit because he admired RM—not because the company offered fame.
These seven boys weren’t chosen for perfection. They were chosen for spirit, sincerity, and grit.
The Harsh Early Years: 2013–2015
Their debut track No More Dream didn’t break charts. Their early albums didn’t dominate. In fact, they were often ignored or mocked because they came from a small company.
They lived in a tiny dorm, shared one bathroom, and practiced until sunrise.
Yet, they continued telling their truth. With songs like N.O, War of Hormone, and Boy in Luv, they slowly built a loyal fandom—ARMY. These were years of climbing a mountain without any guarantee of reaching the top.
The Turning Point: 2015–2016
Everything changed with The Most Beautiful Moment in Life trilogy. Songs like I Need U and Run spoke directly to the struggles of youth. The era introduced the Bangtan Universe (BU), a fictional storyline that fascinated millions.
Their first music show win in 2015 marked a symbolic shift. It showed that the industry could no longer ignore them. By 2016, Blood, Sweat & Tears and the album WINGS pushed them onto the Billboard 200, which is an almost impossible milestone for Korean groups at the time.
Global Breakthrough: 2017–2019
The world turned its gaze toward BTS with the release of DNA. Their American debut stage at the American Music Awards marked a new era. From there, their growth exploded. They broke YouTube records, topped Billboard charts, and became household names worldwide.
But beyond music, their sincerity created impact. BTS spoke at the United Nations, launched the Love Myself campaign with UNICEF, and encouraged self-love and awareness.
- Love Yourself era inspired acceptance
- Map of the Soul explored psychology and identity
- Songs like Fake Love, Idol, and Boy With Luv became global cultural moments
The Pandemic Era: Comfort Through Music (2020–2021)
When the world stopped, BTS kept people connected.
Their English single Dynamite broke unprecedented records, bringing joy during isolation.
Life Goes On became the first Korean song to debut at #1 on Billboard Hot 100—a historical achievement.
Online concerts, heartfelt livestreams, and comforting messages showed why BTS had become more than performers. During this time they earned:
- Grammy nominations
- Multiple Billboard chart-toppers
- TIME’s Entertainer of the Year
- Virtual concert records
Their influence became a global cultural force.
The Solo Era: 2022–Present
Even as they began individual journeys, their impact expanded:
- RM – Indigo: artistic, collaborative
- Jin – The Astronaut: emotional and healing
- Suga / Agust D – D-Day: raw and introspective
- J-Hope – Jack in the Box: dark, experimental
- Jimin – Like Crazy: first Korean soloist to debut at #1 on Billboard Hot 100
- V – Layover: soulful and jazzy
- Jungkook – Seven, 3D, Golden: global pop sensation
Even during enlistment, their presence remains powerful, showing their connection with ARMY goes beyond activities.
Picture Credit: MUSIC BUSINESS WORLD WIDE
From Nothing to Everything
BTS’s rise is one of the most remarkable journeys in modern music. They proved that you don’t need privilege or power to create global change—only heart, honesty, and immense dedication.
From a small room in Seoul to stadiums across continents, they earned every step of their success.
And Their Story Continues…
Over a decade later, BTS continues shaping culture through solo work, philanthropy, and authenticity. Their reunion after enlistment will not just be a comeback; it will be a historic moment.
Their journey teaches one powerful lesson:
You can start with nothing and still become everything.
Video Credit: HYBE LABELS
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