Let’s be real. BTS doesn’t need to do much promotion these days. They already have so many loyal fans who support all their music (as well as their altruistic endeavors) that the septet could literally just tweet out a few selcas and concentrate on their own in-house productions (hello, “Run BTS”!) and everyone would be happy.
But the group surprised their fandom, ARMY, by filming not just one, but two specials that were scheduled to air less than a week apart. On March 24, BTS appeared on “You Quiz On the Block,” which was hosted by “Running Man” emcee Yoo Jae Suk. RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jung Kook spoke from their hearts about the hardships they endured to get to where they are today and showed off their charming personalities.
On March 29, the group will star in their own talk show, “2021 Special Talk Show – Let’s BTS,” which KOCOWA will have available on demand with professional English subtitles shortly after the special premieres in South Korea.
Hosted by MCs Shin Dong-Yeop and Jang Do-Yeon, the talk show is scheduled to include musical performances. Additionally, the seven young men are set to offer a candid conversation about their time together as a group, how they’ve grown as artists over the years, and talk about what ARMY means to them. The producers of the show said the band members will also discuss their hopes for the future.
In a sweet nod to the concerts they couldn’t perform due to COVID-19, they’ve produced a VCR to debut in “2021 Special Talk Show – Let’s BTS.” For those of you who are new to the K-pop world, VCRs are pre-recorded messages and skits that idols showcase during concerts.
If you’re anything like me, waiting is very difficult when there’s something you really, really want to see. So, here are some of my personal favorite BTS content that I recommend you watch while you wait for “2021 Special Talk Show – Let’s BTS”:
“Star Show 360“: Hosted by Tak Jae-Hoon and Super Junior’s Leeteuk, the series devoted 80 minutes to the group’s antics. They premiered a short skit they had filmed just for the episode called, “Eye Candy of BTS High School,” danced and bantered with the hosts. But the most touching moment was when Jung-Kook talked about how it was easy for him to deal with the hardships of being away from his family to be with the group, but it made him sad when his hyungs were suffering.
“KBS News9 Interview with BTS”: The group does a full-length interview, in which they reminisce about their early years when their living conditions were less than stellar and they didn’t have enough money to buy expensive food. A highlight: President Moon Jae-In sends his congratulations to the Grammy-nominated group.
“The King of Mask Singer”: Jung-Kook impressed the judges with his gorgeous vocals, winning personality and modesty. “I came on the show, because I wanted to have a coming-of-age ceremony,” he said. “I’m still really lacking vocally. I’ll continue to grow and become a singer that melts hearts.” Mission, accomplished!
“Law of the Jungle” (Episode 247, Episode 248, Episode 249, Episode 250, Episode 251):
Jin’s not only BTS’ oldest member. He’s also a natural comic, which shouldn’t be surprising to fans of his dad jokes. He appeared on five episodes and was praised for his showmanship. He acknowledges that he gets easily scared and plays it up for laughs. But if you were to get trapped on a deserted island with anyone, Jin would help you survive. He not only caught, prepared and cooked food for his castmates, but he also brought ARMY bombs that they used as flashlights. InJINious! ㅋㅋ
“Running Man” (Episode 265, Episode 300): RM appeared solo on an episode dedicated to super smart idols. It was fitting, since the leader of BTS literally is a genius. Later, the entire group appeared in a challenge to see who could stack the most boxes of ramen. It was a battle between the members versus the cheating cast members! The winning team had the honor of donating all the noodles to charity. This is also the episode when Kim Jong-Kook inadvertently lifted up Jeon Jung-Kook’s shirt.
“Idol Star Athletics Championships”: I am sad to say that it is highly unlikely that a superstar group like BTS will ever compete again on this athletic challenge. But, it was good while it lasted! Showing off their competitive spirit, BTS wasn’t out to just compete, but to bring home the gold! My favorite was their 2016 meetup when BTS was competing to win their third consecutive gold medal in the 400m relay. Jimin started off giving BTS a strong lead, followed by J-Hope, Suga and their strongest athlete, Jung-Kook. I’m not gonna say who won the race, but let’s just say that he was about half a lap ahead of the competition.
“God’s Workplace”: J-Hope and Jimin appear as guests. Their mission is to sew 100 pairs of shorts to sell on a home shopping show. Proving they are good at everything, their creations are cute and sell out in less than 60 seconds.
BONUS: This isn’t a variety show, but since V is the only BTS member who has been in a K-drama, I wanted to include “Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth.” V fleshed out the role of Suk Han-Sung, the bon vivant aristocrat who was expected to carry the responsibilities of his wealthy family. He proved himself as a promising actor in his debut role. (Note to BTS’ management: Now let Jin act, please!)
These are just some of the super fun programs starring BTS that you can watch while waiting for “2021 Special Talk Show – Let’s BTS!” Who else can’t wait for this epic talk show? The countdown starts now, right on KOCOWA!
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