As one of the most successful and influential boy bands of the modern era, BTS has experienced a meteoric rise to global stardom, captivating millions of fans worldwide. From their early days performing in small venues to headlining sold-out stadium tours around the world, the group’s success has been driven by their passion for performing and their unwavering bond with their fans, known as ARMY.

However, the COVID-19 pandemic brought the entire world to a halt, forcing BTS to cancel their highly anticipated “Map of the Soul” world tour, which was meant to bring them closer to their fans than ever before. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, BTS has consistently maintained a positive outlook, using this time to reflect on their journey and grow even closer as a group.

In interviews and through their social media platforms, BTS members have openly expressed their longing for the live performances that have been a defining part of their careers. The experience of touring and performing for their fans is something that the group treasures deeply. During their years of touring, BTS formed a unique and emotional connection with ARMY, making their concerts much more than just musical performances, they were celebrations of shared experiences, unity, and love. The energy of the crowd, the excitement of performing on stage, and the moments of connection with fans are things that the members of BTS have all spoken about with great affection.

When the pandemic first began in early 2020, it brought a wave of uncertainty to the entire entertainment industry, and BTS was no exception. Their “Map of the Soul” world tour, which was set to begin in April 2020, was postponed indefinitely due to the global health crisis. For a group that had become known for their powerful stage presence and their ability to connect with fans on a personal level, this sudden halt in their ability to tour and perform was a difficult adjustment.

In several interviews, BTS has opened up about the emptiness they felt when they could no longer perform live in front of their fans. For Jimin, the experience of touring was something that filled him with energy and joy. “When I’m on stage, I feel like I can really connect with the fans, and it’s an incredible feeling,” he shared. The sudden absence of this connection during the pandemic left a palpable void. For Jungkook, the energy of the crowd was something he deeply missed: “I miss the cheers, I miss the loud applause. It’s a feeling you can’t get anywhere else.” The absence of this immediate feedback loop was a significant change, as the group’s interactions with fans during concerts were always an essential part of their musical journey.

However, while the group may have initially struggled with the lack of live performances, they soon began to realize that the pandemic brought with it an opportunity for growth, both individually and as a team. Despite being unable to tour, the members of BTS found new ways to engage with their fans, stay connected with one another, and grow even closer as a group.

In addition to missing their performances, the pandemic gave BTS an opportunity to reflect on their careers and the relationships they have with their fans. With their schedules forced to slow down, the group members found themselves with more time to think, to rest, and to rediscover aspects of their lives that they hadn’t had the chance to focus on during their hectic tour schedules. For RM, the break allowed him to reflect on the importance of self-care and mental health: “During this time, I’ve realized how important it is to take care of myself. We’ve always been so busy, and it’s easy to forget to slow down and breathe.”

For Suga, the time away from the constant hustle of touring provided an opportunity to focus on his music. He shared that he spent much of the time working on new projects, writing songs, and exploring new creative outlets. “I’ve been able to work on my music in a way that I haven’t been able to before,” he explained. This period of reflection allowed the group to come back stronger than ever, with a renewed sense of purpose and creative energy.

The members also spent more time bonding with each other during this period, despite the physical distance. Living together in close quarters during the quarantine period, the members found solace in one another’s company, deepening their friendships and strengthening their camaraderie. Jin, who often provides a sense of humor and lightheartedness within the group, noted that the members became even more supportive of each other during this challenging time. “We’ve always been close, but this time has brought us even closer,” he said. “We’ve learned to appreciate each other more.”

As a result of this time spent together, BTS released “BE,” an album that reflected their thoughts and emotions during the pandemic. The album’s theme centered on staying connected, facing uncertainty, and finding solace in each other. In their music, BTS explored themes of love, longing, and hope, emotions that resonated deeply with their fans, who were also experiencing similar feelings of isolation and uncertainty. “BE” became not only a musical project but also a reflection of the group’s growth during the pandemic, as they channeled their experiences into their art.

Despite the challenges, BTS found new ways to connect with their fans. In addition to their virtual performances, the group increased their presence on social media platforms, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses into their lives and creating content specifically for their fans. Through their “BTS Run” series, VLive broadcasts, and social media posts, the group was able to stay connected with ARMY, providing comfort and companionship during a time when many people were feeling isolated.

One of the most impactful moments of their virtual engagement came in the form of their online concert, “BTS 2021 Muster,” which allowed fans to participate in a live-streamed performance despite the physical distance. The concert was a way for BTS to recreate the experience of a live show, giving fans the opportunity to watch them perform in real-time and interact with the group in the digital space. For many fans, the concert was a reminder of the deep connection they have with BTS, and it proved that even in times of hardship, the group could still deliver meaningful and memorable experiences.

Although the pandemic forced BTS to step back from their live performances, it also gave the group the chance to appreciate the power of music and connection in new ways. The longing for touring and performing for fans remains, and BTS has expressed excitement for the future, eagerly anticipating the day when they can once again step onto the stage in front of a live audience. Until then, they continue to adapt, innovate, and find new ways to share their music with the world.

For ARMY, the pandemic has been a reminder of the enduring bond between BTS and their fans. The group’s resilience, adaptability, and dedication to their music and fans have made them even more beloved, and their return to touring will undoubtedly be one of the most anticipated events in the music world.

As BTS reflects on how the pandemic brought them closer together, it’s clear that their connection with each other and with ARMY is stronger than ever. While they may miss touring, the experiences of the past year have only deepened their understanding of what it truly means to be a global artist, one that connects with their fans not only through music but through love, understanding, and shared moments of growth.

Discover more from borahae bulletin

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.