A Journey with BTS: My ARMY Story

A Journey with BTS: My ARMY Story

My relationship with BTS, the global South Korean boy band, has been a rollercoaster of emotions, ranging from joy to sorrow. It all began in April 2019 when Boy With Luv was playing on the radio. Intrigued, I watched the MV (Music Video) a few times and before I knew it, I heard Make It Right as well. After a few listens, I nearly forgot about BTS. Until a mid-September 2020 surprise:

The Discovery

That was the day I found the Dynamite MV on my YouTube recommendations. It was as if a key had unlocked a hidden treasure. I was hooked halfway through the MV, and once the song finished, I couldn't help but exclaim, 'Wow, that was a BTS song.'

About 3 Years Later

Here I am, almost three years on, and BTS is now one of my ultimate passions. Throughout quarantine and beyond, the boys have offered me laughter and tears. Being part of the ARMY has been one of the best decisions I've ever made.

Free Serotonin for the Team

Being in the ARMY, you get a mix of emotions and experiences. There are moments of joy, like finally getting my first piece of K-pop merch from Hawaii in July 2022 – a surprise Shooky keychain. But there are also challenges:

1. Pressure in Social Media

There's a significant pressure in social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram. You can't simply express a different opinion or voice constructive criticism without facing backlash. If you're seen as not 100% committed, you'll be labeled as fake. Similarly, if you criticize a BTS action, you may be told to delete your account. However, not all ARMY members are toxic. Many are ready to engage in healthy discussions and support one another.

In short, one of the biggest challenges is navigating social media while staying true to your beliefs.

2. The Face of K-pop

As the ARMY, you represent K-pop. Whatever ARMY does, whether good or bad, becomes an extension of the global K-pop sphere. Actions have a significant impact, and this is often a double-edged sword. Positivity can spread like wildfire, but so can negativity.

3. Perceptions in Other Markets

Locally, K-pop fans are often seen as ARMY. Whenever there is a discussion about K-pop fans, locals often assume it's the ARMY who is responsible, regardless of the accuracy of this assumption. This can lead to misunderstandings and stereotypes that are hard to dispel.

Despite these challenges, it's important to highlight the kindness and supportive actions of ARMY members. We're like any fandom: sometimes toxic, sometimes protective, always a little cute and incredibly funny.

We are a large, vibrant group who are passionate about our idol and our fandom. Our journey with BTS has been an incredible one, full of ups and downs. Through it all, the ARMY has remained a force for good in my life.