WATCH BTS Perform “Life Goes On” at The ’35th Golden Disk Awards’ (GDA 2021)

BTS won four Awards at this year’s 35th Golden Disk Awards (GDA 2021) and gave an outstanding performance of their chart topping song “Life Goes On”. The most special moment was that Suga was able to perform, after a very long time due to his shoulder surgery that he had been recovering from. Finally, the members were all together, OT7! The performance was a walk down memory lane as each member was singing next to a replica ‘structure’ of the various eras (albums) that they have had since debut. “Life Goes On” debuted at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 Charts making it their 3rd #1 on the charts and 1st ever non English song to debut at #1.

BTS made history yet again at the 35th Golden Disc Awards (GDA 2021), walking away with four major awards and delivering an unforgettable performance of their heartfelt anthem, “Life Goes On.” The evening was filled with emotion, nostalgia, and joy, not just for BTS themselves, but for ARMYs all around the world. What made the night even more special was the long-awaited return of SUGA, who had been on hiatus following shoulder surgery. His presence on stage brought back the long-missed feeling of OT7, all seven members of BTS performing together, just like old times.

At the 35th Golden Disc Awards, BTS continued their legacy of excellence by winning four prestigious awards:

Album of the Year (Daesang)
Digital Song Bonsang
Album Bonsang
Curaprox Golden Disc Popularity Award

These accolades are a reflection of BTS’s massive impact in 2020, a year marked by uncertainty due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but one in which the group shone brightly through their music and connection with fans. Albums like Map of the Soul: 7 and BE resonated deeply, offering healing, empathy, and strength. “Life Goes On,” in particular, emerged as a powerful anthem during a time when the world needed comfort the most.

One of the most touching moments of the night was undoubtedly Min Yoongi’s (SUGA’s) return to the stage. After undergoing surgery in November 2020 to repair a torn labrum in his shoulder, a condition he had endured quietly for years, SUGA took a step back from group activities to focus on recovery. His absence was felt deeply by the members and fans alike, and his health became a top concern for ARMY.

That’s why his reappearance at the Golden Disc Awards felt so monumental. Though he didn’t participate in every high-energy move due to his ongoing healing process, just seeing him there, singing alongside his brothers, was more than enough. There was an undeniable warmth in the air as fans watched all seven members back together again. OT7 was whole. It was more than a performance, it was a reunion.

When BTS took the stage for “Life Goes On,” it wasn’t just a performance, it was a journey. The set design was incredibly detailed and symbolic. Each member stood next to a replica of an iconic structure or scenic element from previous BTS eras and albums. This artistic choice wasn’t accidental, it was a thoughtful walk down memory lane, visually representing the milestones BTS has reached since their debut in 2013

This visual narrative tied beautifully into the message of “Life Goes On” that even as things change, memories remain, and life continues forward. The lyrics, comforting and raw, spoke to the collective experience of a world paused by a pandemic. With each word, BTS reminded us that pain is shared, healing is possible, and hope persists.

Beyond the beautiful GDA stage, “Life Goes On” had already carved its name in global music history. When the song debuted at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, it became:

BTS’s third No. 1 on the chart, following “Dynamite” and “Savage Love (Laxed – Siren Beat) Remix.”
The first non-English song to debut at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the chart’s entire history.

This groundbreaking achievement was not only a victory for BTS but also a monumental moment for Korean-language music and Asian artists globally. It demonstrated the power of sincerity in music. “Life Goes On” wasn’t created to be a commercial hit, it was written from the heart, and that authenticity is what resonated with millions. The song spoke to the sorrow, stillness, and slivers of hope that defined 2020.

As the performance came to a close, it was clear that this was more than an awards show performance. It was a moment of healing, reflection, and gratitude. With the stage design gently transitioning from nostalgic settings to a unified space, BTS reminded ARMY and the world that even though eras pass, their bond remains unchanged. Their journey is not defined by a single moment or album, it is a continuous story, evolving with each step they take together.

There was a tender warmth in the way the members looked at each other and smiled throughout the performance. The emotion was real, visible in their eyes. For fans, watching their favorite group standing side by side once again, especially with SUGA back in the mix, was nothing short of magical.

The return of OT7 added emotional weight to the performance. BTS, as seven, is a force that touches hearts across the globe. The synergy, the unspoken understanding, the shared glances, all these little things that make them unique as a group were back. Fans who had been missing the complete energy of seven voices harmonizing, seven hearts performing as one, were overjoyed. Seeing BTS united once more symbolized a hopeful return, not just for SUGA, but for the idea that wholeness can be restored after hardship.

The 35th Golden Disc Awards will forever be etched in the memories of BTS and ARMY. Winning four major awards was a testament to their unmatched artistry and global impact. But more than the trophies and accolades, it was the emotional reunion on stage, the celebration of their journey, and the performance of a song that defines hope that truly made the night special.

“Life Goes On” was not just a performance, it was a gift. And with SUGA standing alongside his brothers once more, it was a beautiful reminder that life, even in its quietest, most uncertain moments, always finds a way forward. And as long as BTS continues to walk together, ARMY will walk right beside them.