BTS 2013: The Debut Year of the Group That Changed K-pop

Songs Released

RM – “Where U At”

At the start of the month, RM released “Where U At”, a song he had written three years earlier, in his first year of high school. The song is about the struggles and pressure young people face while searching for a purpose in life.

It questions self-worth in a society that measures success by money and status. RM conveys his frustration with social and family expectations, showing the anguish of feeling lost.

The repeated phrase “Where U At” symbolizes that endless search for identity and direction, along with the wish to escape responsibilities for a while.

SUGA – “All I Do Is Win”

Another standout release was SUGA’s “All I Do Is Win”. He revealed that the track was finished in April 2011, around the same time RM wrote “Rap Monster”. However, it was only officially released in 2013.

The song uses the original DJ Khaled beat from “All I Do Is Win”, and it has a relaxed, humorous tone.

In a blog post, SUGA joked:

“I’m a rapper who steals young girls’ hearts, but so far no victims have been reported. If there are any, please send your reports via Twitter!”

“School of Tears” – RM, SUGA & Jin

A special collaboration between RM, SUGA and Jin brought “School of Tears”, a song inspired by the documentary “School of Tears”, broadcast on January 13, 2013. The song deals with the harsh reality of school bullying and criticizes the education system and society.

The song’s main themes include:

• The feeling of helplessness and the “good kid complex”, where students try to please everyone but end up becoming accomplices to the problem.
• School as a “square ring”, where everyone becomes a spectator or even a participant in the bullying.
• Society as a survival-of-the-fittest space, where the weak are constantly oppressed.
• The reflection that there are no winners in bullying – in the end, everyone loses.

SUGA said on the blog that he wrote this song after watching the documentary and thinking about the topic. He said he didn’t want to explain the song too much, but hoped listeners would understand the message he wanted to get across.

RM – “Favorite Girl”

RM also released “Favorite Girl”, a song he wrote, mixed and performed himself, using Marques Houston’s original track “Favorite Girl”.

The song is about a past love, remembering promises made when they were young and asking why things didn’t work out. RM expresses how much he misses that special person and how hard it is to forget them, even after so long.

In a post on the BTS blog, he revealed that he wrote “Favorite Girl” the previous winter, inspired by a girl he really liked. He hoped the song could warm the hearts of those who listened, just as he felt while writing it.

First Logs – BTS on YouTube

In January 2013, the BTS members started posting videos on YouTube, sharing their daily lives, challenges and thoughts while preparing for debut. These logs offer an intimate look at their journey as trainees, showing their struggles, dreams and lighthearted moments.

RM – First log

At the start of the year, RM talked about his expectations for 2013, mentioning that he bought new clothes and changed his hairstyle. He also mentioned his frustration with the company, which was not approving his recent songs, but said he would keep believing in himself and make 2013 his year.

RM – In the recording studio

RM said he was writing raps but having a hard time. Despite the cold, hunger and sleepiness, he decided to keep working because he wanted to prove his potential.

He had already been in the studio for eight hours and estimated he would need at least eight more to finish something he was happy with.

Jin – Day off at a Korean sauna

Jin shared that he visited a jjimjilbang to relax, exfoliate and eat patbingsu. He mentioned that the CEO said he seemed to have gained weight, which got him thinking.

He also talked about his health, saying that sleeping near the window made him more prone to colds, especially since RM used to leave it open.

RM – Thoughts on his musical growth

After meeting old friends from the time he made music before joining the company, RM reflected on his growth. They said he was more stable and commercial but had lost some of his old intensity, which he agreed with. RM also mentioned the need to balance his style to reach a wider audience.

Jin – Trying patjuk

Feeling his face was puffier, Jin decided to try patjuk, a red bean porridge, but found the taste disappointing. He said he might try making his own version in the future.

He also talked about his eating routine and revealed that, when he cooks, he likes to imagine making meals with his future wife.

Jin – Talking with a childhood friend

Jin got a call from a friend from his hometown and was happy to hear how he was doing. He remembered that they were very close and looked alike, but laughed when he found out his friend was now taller than him. He said he hoped to see him again soon.

RM – Little everyday joys

RM said he managed to finish his tasks earlier than expected, which made him happy. He talked about the cold weather and wanting to get in better shape to wear lighter clothes in the summer.

Jin – Health and expectations for Jimin

Jin mentioned that the cold was back and that he started eating more vegetables to improve his circulation. He also talked about Jimin’s profile being revealed to the public and said he had high expectations for him.

Jimin – First YouTube log

Jimin said he had a hard time recording his first video because he didn’t really know what to say. He said he used to laugh at RM’s and Jin’s videos, but realized that recording a log wasn’t as easy as it looked.

He also talked about being recently introduced to the public and was happy with the drawings he got from fans.

Other Important Moments of January 2013

SUGA shows off the Maschine MK2

SUGA posted a YouTube video demonstrating the Maschine MK2, a music production device.

He explained how he used it to make beats and showed an example based on the soundtrack of the film The Man from Nowhere.

Even with a cold, he gave a detailed demo and highlighted how practical the device is for sampling and production.

Jimin’s first dance video is posted on BANGTANTV

The group’s official channel released a video of Jimin dancing a krump routine. His performance showed strength and expressiveness, highlighting his dance skills, which would later become one of the core parts of his artistic identity in BTS.

Dance practice by 지민 of 방탄소년단

Jimin shares his first photo on the BTS blog

On the group’s official blog, Jimin posted his first photo as a trainee and said he was still getting used to social media. He mentioned that Twitter was new to him and that he was excited but a little confused by the platform.

Songs Released

RM and Jungkook – “Like a Star”

RM and Jungkook released “Like a Star”, a cover of J. Cole’s original track with their own personal touch. Jungkook brings soft, melodic vocals that convey a feeling of freedom and change.

RM, with an introspective rap, describes his life as a “gray” existence, reflecting on the insecurities and difficulties of youth.

In the post caption, RM revealed that the inspiration came from a close friend going through similar dilemmas. He mentioned that many people live stuck in cycles of doubt, even when they recognize their problems.

He also praised Jungkook’s talent, calling him a true “golden maknae”.

Jungkook, Jimin and J-Hope – “Graduation Song”

BTS released “Graduation Song”, performed by Jungkook, Jimin and J-Hope, based on Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa’s “Young, Wild & Free”. The song celebrates graduation and the end of school life, combining soft vocals with an upbeat rap.

The lyrics, written by Supreme Boi and J-Hope, capture the excitement and nostalgia of this transition. J-Hope, who was also graduating that year, said in the post that he wanted all graduates to feel special when they heard the song.

방탄소년들의 졸업

RM – “비싼여자” (Expensive Girl)

RM released “비싼여자” (Expensive Girl), based on Pharrell’s “Take It Off”. The song has a playful, flirty tone, with RM describing an irresistible woman and comparing her to unavoidable things in his life.

The song shows his inner struggle between reason and feelings: even though he tries to keep his distance, he feels inevitably drawn in. At the end of the post, RM jokingly dedicated the track to all the “expensive girls of the world”.

Logs – BTS on YouTube

Jimin – Jungkook’s graduation

Jimin shared that on February 8, Jungkook had his graduation ceremony. He, Jin and Suga went to the school to celebrate the moment.

Jimin was impressed by how popular Jungkook was with his classmates, especially the girls. He also mentioned the Lunar New Year holiday, hoping everyone would get some rest, even though RM and Suga had work commitments.

Jungkook – First vlog

Jungkook posted his first YouTube video, saying he thought recording a vlog would be easy but realized he didn’t know what to say.

He talked about his graduation but admitted that, after the ceremony, he didn’t feel as happy as he expected. He said he finished a dance class late at night and was looking forward to going home for the Lunar New Year.

RM – Thoughts on the Lunar New Year

RM talked about the end of the holiday and how that time made him realize the value of friendship. He mentioned going out with friends and having his first drink as an adult, which got him thinking about true bonds.

He also said the debut was getting close and described this phase as “the calm before the storm”.

Jungkook and Jimin – Trip to Busan

Jungkook and Jimin shared that they went to Busan for the Lunar New Year holiday. During the trip, they both gained weight thanks to the traditional food.

Jimin underestimated the cold and caught a cold. The two said that, back in Seoul, their focus would now be on preparing for debut.

J-Hope – First vlog

J-Hope recorded his first vlog, sharing his nerves and excitement about the group’s next steps. He set two goals before debut: improving his rap with help from RM and Suga, and improving his dance.

He also mentioned Valentine’s Day, joking that he planned to enjoy some chocolate.

J-Hope – Birthday

J-Hope posted a vlog about his birthday, on February 18. He said the day was busy, full of practice and meetings, but that he got birthday wishes from the members and friends.

He said he hoped to celebrate with fans the following year.

Jimin and Jungkook – Dance meeting

Jimin and Jungkook shared that they had an important meeting where they had to present choreography. Jungkook, with no freestyle experience, felt insecure, while Jimin, who had been practicing popping for longer, managed to stand out.

Jimin also mentioned that his cold affected his voice and stressed the importance of taking care of your health.

RM and Suga – Changes and getting ready for debut

RM talked about looking for peace of mind and revealed he had been listening to a lot of Yiruma. He also mentioned that a new stylist had started working with the group, helping them prepare for debut.

Suga made a quick appearance, encouraging everyone to stay focused.

Jimin – Looking back

Jimin recorded a vlog saying he wanted to film with Jungkook, but because of their busy schedule he ended up recording alone. He talked about seeing a friend from his hometown again and how much he misses his family.

He said that motivates him to keep working hard and that he is more determined than ever.

Other Important Moments of February 2013

Jungkook posts his first dance practice video

Jungkook shared a YouTube video showing his progress in dance. It showed his effort and dedication to improving his skills before debut.

Jungkook publishes his US dance training diary

On the official BTS blog, Jungkook shared a detailed account of his dance training trip to Los Angeles the year before.

He described his first long flight, the early struggles with the language barrier and the challenge of handling complex choreography.

In the second part of the diary, he talked about visiting an art gallery, trying lobster for the first time and trying to learn to skateboard.

Jungkook also highlighted what he learned at the Movement Lifestyle studio, where he improved his dance technique.

Jungkook shares photos from his graduation

Jungkook posted photos from his middle school graduation on the blog. He said he was happy to have his hyungs by his side on that special day and joked about buying the members lunch as a graduation present.

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BTS releases a Harlem Shake video

Following the viral trend of the time, BTS posted their own version of the Harlem Shake.

The video starts out normal but quickly turns into a chaotic scene, with the members dancing wildly and wearing odd accessories.

흔한 연습생의 Harlem shake.avi

Songs Released

RM, SUGA and Jin – “어른아이” (Adult Child)

RM, SUGA and Jin released “어른아이” (Adult Child), a song about the transition from childhood to adulthood. It explores feelings of nostalgia and uncertainty, reflecting on growing up and the responsibility that comes with maturity.

Jin shines on vocals with an emotional melody, while RM and SUGA deliver introspective raps about the pressure of becoming an adult without being fully prepared.

The song connects with anyone who has ever felt lost facing the expectations of adult life.

RM – “Rap Monster Freestyle 3”

RM released “Rap Monster Freestyle 3” on YouTube, sharing his journey as a trainee and the challenges he faced since joining the company.

He talks about how lonely he felt when he arrived at BigHit, how BTS evolved as new members joined, and his responsibility as leader.

Logs – BTS on YouTube

SUGA – Thoughts on his musical journey

SUGA shared a vlog reflecting on his path in music. He mentioned that this video would be more relaxed since RM wasn’t there, so he could talk comfortably.

He revealed that his biggest inspiration for getting into hip-hop was Epik High’s “Fly”, which he heard in 2006, when he was still in middle school. That song made him decide to pursue a rap career and shaped his identity as an artist.

SUGA also said that, in hard times, he always goes back to that song to find motivation and keep writing. He ended the vlog reaffirming his commitment to music and his wish to create new songs in the future.

Jungkook – Learning a new choreography

Jungkook posted his second solo vlog, still a bit shy recording alone. He said he was learning a new choreography and that, despite being tired, he was excited to keep practicing.

He mentioned that his routine was intense, with lots to do, but promised he would finish everything before bed. He ended the video in a playful way, joking around with a few English words before saying goodbye.

J-Hope – Thoughts in the studio

J-Hope captured a moment in the studio, saying he interrupted SUGA’s recording to film his vlog. At first he wanted to record without background music, but ended up leaving a song playing because he felt it gave off a spring, first-love vibe.

He quickly came back to reality, reaffirming his dedication to work and mentioning that he had been sleeping little because of intense practice. J-Hope also said he was excited that debut was getting close and suggested they all go to a retro festival together in the spring.

SUGA – Birthday and thoughts on time

SUGA recorded a vlog on his birthday, with 2 Chainz’s “Birthday Song” playing in the background. He said that when he was younger he thought birthdays were super happy moments, but now he saw the day differently.

Midway through the video, the BTS members burst in and sang an improvised “Happy Birthday” for him, making the moment more fun. SUGA reacted playfully, showing his gratitude while keeping his signature humor.

Other Important Moments of March 2013

Jungkook – Vocal practice: “See Through”

Jungkook posted a vocal practice on YouTube singing “씨스루” (See Through), originally by Primary featuring Gaeko and Zion.T. The R&B and hip-hop influenced song let him show off his vocal technique and emotional control.

The video highlighted his ability to sing different styles, reinforcing his versatility and potential as a vocalist. Even as a trainee, Jungkook impressed with his polished delivery and clear tone.

Jimin – Dance practice: “Bait”

Jimin shared a dance practice with choreography to rapper Wale’s “Bait”. The routine was created by Lyle Beniga, a renowned choreographer known for his innovative, dynamic style.

The video showed off Jimin’s dance talent, his precise movements and expressiveness. This performance highlighted his dedication to improving his technique before BTS’s official debut.

J-Hope, Jimin and Jungkook – Dance practice: “Burn”

BTS posted a dance practice video on YouTube with J-Hope, Jimin and Jungkook performing choreography to Meek Mill’s “Burn”, featuring Big Sean.

The performance showed the sync between the three members, along with intense energy and sharp moves. The video was another example of how hard they were working to level up their skills before debut.

Dance practice by J-HOPE&지민&정국

Songs Released

SUGA – “Dream Money”

SUGA released “Dream Money”, a song about the relationship between dreams and money, reflecting on the struggles of anyone chasing success in the arts.

The song has a critical, realistic tone, highlighting the financial pressure and uncertainty of the music industry. SUGA lays out his frustration at seeing talent often valued less than status and wealth.

With an intense flow and sharp verses, he expresses his fight to earn his place without compromising his authenticity.

Logs – BTS on YouTube

SUGA – An intense routine before debut

SUGA shared details about his exhausting routine while working on BTS’s title track. He mentioned he had spent more than a week revising and adjusting the track, sleeping only in the mornings because of the workload.

Despite being tired, he was excited imagining the moment his songs would be presented to the public. He joked about how worn out he looked and stressed that, even facing challenges, his passion for music beat any exhaustion.

J-Hope – Getting ready for debut and dieting

J-Hope reflected on how fast time was passing and how close BTS’s debut was. He mentioned the strict diet they were following for the album photo shoots and said he was worried about which facial expression to use.

Playing around with fans, he asked for suggestions between a warm smile, a charismatic look or a mysterious stare. He also encouraged everyone to hang in there in the final stretch before debut, ending with his classic “BTS fighting!”.

Jimin – Thoughts and skin trouble

Before a recording session, Jimin shared that he was addicted to the song “Like Us”, which he worked on with RM and Heaven. He also mentioned skin problems from lack of sleep and that he wanted it to clear up soon so he could post photos on Twitter.

He said he was excited and nervous about debut, wondering how the public would receive BTS. He also mentioned that Jungkook had a cold, but that his physical stamina would help him recover.

SUGA – Final preparations before debut

SUGA posted a log in the early hours, saying he spent the day between dance practice and recording. He shared that, although the production process had been tough, he now felt more relief than anything else.

He mentioned that he changed his hair, making it shorter and lighter, and stressed that May was coming, bringing BTS’s official debut. He asked fans to follow this moment and support the group in this new phase.

Other Important Moments of April 2013

J-Hope and Jungkook – B-boying video

J-Hope and Jungkook shared a b-boying dance video showing off their acrobatic moves. The video highlighted the talent and energy of both, reinforcing their versatility and dedication to dance before debut.

J HOPE & 정국 비보이

Logs – BTS on YouTube

J-Hope – An intense routine before debut

J-Hope shared a vlog about how exhausting the routine of practice and recording had been. He revealed that he spent eight hours practicing dance before heading straight to the studio. With the title track finished, he was now focused on the album’s other songs.

He also mentioned that he completely lost track of time and only realized it was Thursday while recording the vlog. Despite being tired, he asked fans for their support and ended with his classic words of encouragement.

J-Hope and Jungkook – Exhaustion and intensive training

J-Hope and Jungkook recorded a vlog together to share their struggles in the final stretch before debut. J-Hope showed his bruised knees and talked about the extreme exhaustion of training. Jungkook, on the other hand, joked that he was in good shape, which made J-Hope say he was “living well”.

They also talked about rehearsing in stage outfits, describing the experience as absolute hell because of how uncomfortable it was.

Jungkook said his day was “a mess”, while J-Hope stressed how overloaded with training they were. The video ended with both saying they needed rest before the MV shoot.

RM and Jungkook – Nerves before the MV shoot

RM and Jungkook shared a vlog about their intense practice routine and the challenges of the choreography.

Jungkook mentioned the pressure of having a solo dance break in the debut song and how hard it had been to nail the choreography, with constant corrections from the instructors.

During the chat, RM accidentally revealed that the MV shoot would happen on Saturday, adding to the group’s nerves.

Jungkook said his heart was racing as the shoot got closer, while RM stressed the importance of doing everything perfectly.

They also asked fans to keep sending messages of support, since it helped them stay motivated.

SUGA and Jimin – Getting ready for the debut MV

SUGA and Jimin recorded a vlog together about preparing for the debut MV shoot, which would take three days. They joked about how tired they were, saying their dark circles reached “down to their ankles” because of the intense practice.

There was some confusion about the shooting location, with rumors of different cities like Ilsan, Busan and Daegu, but SUGA said he heard the set would be in Ilsan.

They shared their excitement about the MV and said the company had approved the album photos. The vlog ended with SUGA promising the debut was close and asking fans for patience.

Other Important Moments of May 2013

BTS – Debut Trailer release

BTS released the Debut Trailer, a concept video that officially introduced the group to the public. The trailer had an intense, mysterious atmosphere, with visual and sound elements that reflected BTS’s identity at the time.

This release kicked off the countdown to the group’s official debut, building huge anticipation among fans.

BTS (방탄소년단) Debut Trailer

Songs

“Born Singer” is released

BTS released “Born Singer”, an adaptation of J. Cole’s “Born Sinner”, with lyrics written by RM, SUGA and J-Hope. The song is a heartfelt confession from the members after their debut, reflecting on the challenges, the dreams and the reality of the music industry.

Born Singer by 방탄소년단

Logs

RM – Thoughts on his journey as an artist

RM shared his thoughts on the start of BTS’s career, thanking fans for the positive reception and saying he was excited about all the opportunities the group was getting.

He mentioned the intense schedule of interviews and appearances, saying he was working hard to always give his best without making mistakes.

He stressed the importance of staying in touch with fans through social media, especially Twitter, where he could talk to them directly.

Despite the exhausting routine, RM said he preferred the rush of life as an artist to his trainee days, when there weren’t as many concrete activities. He ended the vlog reflecting on how happiness should be found in the present and not only in the future.

SUGA – A new beginning for BTS

SUGA talked about where BTS was at the moment, saying that despite growing recognition, every new stage is a fresh start. He shared that he had been working hard on writing lyrics, often writing while the others rested.

Building anticipation among fans, he hinted that news would be revealed soon, joking that his comment wasn’t just a small hint but a big spoiler.

J-Hope – First performances after debut

J-Hope reflected on his experience after debut and mentioned the special performance on M! Countdown, where he, Jimin and Jungkook performed the “Dancing 9” choreography.

He revealed they were very nervous about that performance and practiced hard to get every detail right.

He also said he was recording the vlog at 4:50 in the morning because he was working on a new song. He also revealed that the BTS practice room would soon be renovated.

V – His first solo vlog

V recorded his first solo log and remembered special moments from the pre-debut period. He shared funny stories, like spending Christmas with the members and the time Jimin borrowed his school uniform for graduation without asking.

He also mentioned a photo Jimin posted before debut that many fans thought was Jungkook, but was actually him.

V said he was happy to see the fans’ reaction when they finally found out BTS was a group of seven members, not six, as many thought.

Jin – Thoughts on the fans’ support

Jin shared his thoughts after reading letters from fans. He said he was extremely grateful for the unconditional support he receives and admitted that, at the same time, he felt a little guilty for not being able to give back in the same way.

He ended the log sincerely thanking ARMY, showing his thoughtful, caring side.

Jungkook – Challenges recording the next album

Jungkook shared his recording routine and mentioned he was struggling with some parts of the song, especially the high notes. He said this challenge made him want to improve his vocal technique.

Jungkook also said he was thrilled to meet Dynamic Duo, one of his favorite groups, backstage at a music show.

V – Meeting fans at a fansign

V talked about a fansign event in Incheon, saying he was happy to get the chance to talk to fans one by one. However, he felt the time was too short and wished he could have interacted more.

He also mentioned he was using his free time to browse Twitter and blogs before going back to practice.

Jimin – His routine on days off

Jimin shared how he spends his days off. He mentioned that he expected a warm welcome when he went back to school after debut, but was actually treated pretty normally, which surprised him.

He also said he splits his free time between the gym, dance practice and skincare, always focused on improving as an artist.

RM – Hard work and motivation

RM reflected on his journey and mentioned Nas’s “The Message”, which inspired him to never stop working hard.

He stressed the importance of hard work to succeed and mentioned his admiration for more experienced artists who stay humble.

He said he was grateful to do what he loves and reaffirmed his responsibility to repay the fans’ support with even more dedication and effort.

Jin and Jimin – Wrapping up debut promotions

Jin and Jimin reflected on the end of the “2 Cool 4 Skool” promotions. Jin said time flew by and that, even though they had shown a lot, there were still things they wanted to share.

Jimin said the last performance was short and he wished he could have interacted more with fans. Both thanked ARMY for their unconditional support and promised to come back with even better performances.

J-Hope – First regional fansign in Busan

J-Hope shared his impressions after BTS’s first regional fansign, held in Busan. He said he was surprised by how many fans came and by the positive energy of the event.

He also reflected on the end of the “2 Cool 4 Skool” promotions, remembering all the hard work since the debut showcase. He said that, even though it all went by very fast, it was a time of great learning for the group.

J-Hope ended the log saying BTS was already working on the next album and asked fans to look forward to it.

Other Important Moments – July 2013

EPISODE: BTS Like (Showcase Sketch)

BTS released a special episode showing the behind the scenes of the debut showcase. In the video, the members are seen rehearsing and sharing their hopes for the event.

BTS – Dance Break + No More Dream @ M! Countdown

BTS wowed the audience with a special performance on M! Countdown, presenting an extended version of “No More Dream” with an intense dance break.

[130704] BTS (방탄소년단) - Dance Break + No More Dream (노 모어 드림) @ MNet MCountdown

BTS Dance Practice: Dance Break

An exclusive dance practice was released, showing the BTS members rehearsing the “No More Dream” dance break intensely.

July 9 – BTS announces the official fandom name: A.R.M.Y

BTS officially announced the name of their fandom: A.R.M.Y (Adorable Representative MC for Youth).

The announcement was made on Twitter, where the members shared their excitement about the decision. The name reflects the strong bond between BTS and their fans: just as an army protects the nation, the fans will always be by the group’s side.

Official MV ‘We Are Bulletproof Pt.2’

BTS released the official music video for “We Are Bulletproof Pt.2”, one of the most iconic tracks from the debut album “2 Cool 4 Skool”.

BTS (방탄소년단) 'We Are Bulletproof Pt.2' Official MV

‘We Are Bulletproof Pt.2’ dance practice

BTS released an exclusive dance practice video for “We Are Bulletproof Pt.2”, showing the choreography behind the scenes.

SUGA’s 2 Cool 4 Skool Album Review

SUGA did a detailed review of BTS’s first album, “2 Cool 4 Skool”, sharing his thoughts on the production process and the songs.

He mentioned that he bought a copy of the album himself and talked about the cover design, which reflects BTS’s bold aesthetic at the time. SUGA also went track by track, sharing fun facts about how each song was recorded and written.

• “We Are Bulletproof Pt.2” – Represents the group’s effort and dedication during their trainee years.
• “No More Dream” – The title track was written and rewritten many times to capture the message about young people’s dreams and expectations.
• “Like” – SUGA revealed that he wrote his part in just 40 minutes, about the impact of social media on people’s lives.
• “Outro: Circle Room Cypher” – All the members took part, even those who aren’t rappers, to show their love for hip-hop.

BTS’s interview on Arirang SOUND K

BTS appeared on Arirang SOUND K on July 15, 2013, one of the group’s first international interviews.

During the conversation, the members talked about the origin of the name BTS, the challenges of their debut, their hopes for the future and even shared funny behind-the-scenes stories.

The origin of RM’s stage name

RM explained that his stage name was inspired by a song he wrote in 2011 called “Rap Monster”, where he repeated that name in the chorus. After that, the members and staff started calling him that, and the nickname became his official stage name.

What the members’ stage names mean

• SUGA got his name because his skin was fair and he had a sweet smile, like sugar.
• J-Hope explained that his name comes from the idea of being the group’s “hope”, inspired by the story of Pandora’s Box.
• Jungkook, Jimin and Jin kept their real names, and V explained that he chose that letter because it stands for “victory”.

The start of BTS and RM’s leadership

RM shared that he was BTS’s first trainee and so naturally became the leader. Even though some members were older than him, everyone respected him, and the group stressed that his role as leader helped balance the younger and older members.

Goals for the future

When asked about their plans, the members said their biggest goal for 2013 was to win Best New Artist and establish BTS as a representative hip-hop group in K-pop.

They also said they wanted people to think of BTS when talking about hip-hop on the idol scene.

A message to international fans

BTS said they wanted to expand their career internationally and mentioned they would love to meet fans around the world, including in countries like Israel, Tunisia and Morocco, which had been supporting the group since debut.

Fun facts

• During the interview, the members talked about the importance of appearance and self-care, saying Jimin and Jin were the most concerned with their skin and hair.
• Jimin shared that he got his first abs by training hard since joining BigHit.
• When asked about possibly changing concepts in the future, the members said they were happy with their current style but open to exploring new possibilities.

The Arirang SOUND K interview was a special moment for fans, showing a BTS still discovering themselves but already with the determination and passion that would make them one of the biggest groups in the world.

Logs

J-Hope – An intense filming routine

J-Hope talks about his busy routine, saying the days had been extremely packed with activities, including filming for new projects.

He appears with makeup on, explaining that it was because of the ongoing shoots.

He reflects on how busy this period had been for BTS, with lots of commitments and preparation for upcoming releases.

During the video, J-Hope jokes about being tired but stays motivated, asking fans for patience and promising news soon.

Jungkook – Intensive practice and challenges

Jungkook shares his relief at finishing the recordings for BTS’s next project, but mentions that this means dance practice would get even more intense.

He admits he is feeling tired, especially because some routines have challenging moves. He also reveals that he has a cold, which has made practice harder, but he stays motivated to recover quickly and keep working hard.

V – Filming the new MV

V shares his excitement after an intense day filming a new music video, praising the set and saying he found it even more impressive than the No More Dream one.

He also says the food on set was delicious, joking that he ate so much he had to spend some time in the bathroom afterward. Despite that mishap, he is excited about the result and can’t wait for the release.

Jimin – Comparing the shoots

Jimin shares his impressions of filming the new MV, comparing it with the first shoot. He says that at first everything was new, but now he feels more focused on improving his performance for the cameras.

He also praises the outfits and the concept of the new project, saying he is excited to present the new songs to the public.

Jimin ends the log on a lighthearted note, saying he is going to eat before heading back to practice.

J-Hope – Looking forward to a reality show

J-Hope shares details about filming a special Chuseok reality show, saying he had already mentioned it on Twitter.

He says that through this show he got to try and feel new things.

He also talks about his part in “Channel Bangtan”, where he faced an intense challenge alongside V.

J-Hope says he can’t wait for the show to come out, hoping fans enjoy it and have fun watching BTS take on new challenges.

Other Important Moments – August 2013

Comeback Trailer O!RUL8,2?

BTS released the official comeback trailer for the album “O!RUL8,2?”, marking the start of a new era for the group.

방탄소년단 Comeback trailer

EPISODE: BTS O!RUL8,2? album photo shoot

Behind the scenes of the photo shoot for “O!RUL8,2?”, the BTS members share their impressions and lighthearted moments during filming.

RM says that, although the location is familiar, the experience feels more meaningful this time, reflecting the group’s growth. Jin, with his signature humor, jokes about his looks and teases fans by saying that taking off his makeup could be “a shock for ARMY”.

Jungkook, still getting used to the intense filming routine, introduces himself as the “golden maknae” and shares his excitement about the album concept. The members talk about how this new phase is an evolution of the group’s identity, with a more mature, confident tone.

SBS MTV Rookie King: BTS – Channel Bangtan teaser

The teaser for “Rookie King: Channel Bangtan” was released, giving a glimpse of BTS’s first official reality show.

SBS MTV Rookie King: BTS – Channel Bangtan teaser (Jungkook version)

A special version of the “Rookie King: Channel Bangtan” teaser focused on Jungkook was released, highlighting the maknae’s moments on the show.

SUGA and Rap Monster on Sukira

On August 5, 2013, SUGA and RM appeared on the radio show Super Junior’s Kiss The Radio (Sukira), hosted by Super Junior members.

During the broadcast, they shared their experiences as trainees, talked about their personal tastes, discussed topics like relationships and even told some scary stories.

Right at the start of the show, the two joked about the impressions people got from their stage names.

RM said many people thought he was an aggressive, tough rapper because of the name “Rap Monster”, but in reality he wasn’t really like that.

SUGA said people expected him to be super cute because of his name, but he didn’t see himself that way. They promised to show their contrasting sides throughout the show.

Trainee Life and Food

The two also shared what life was like before debut and talked about their struggles during training.

SUGA said the diet and intense practice routine were a big challenge, and RM mentioned that he sometimes missed having free time.

The conversation moved on to food. SUGA revealed he didn’t really like seafood, while RM said there were some specific foods he didn’t eat, joking about his eating quirks.

The host laughed and said it was funny to see rappers with such “peculiar” food preferences.

Scary Stories in the Dorm and Studio

One of the most memorable moments of the show was when RM and SUGA shared spooky stories from the BTS dorm and studio.

RM said that early in their training, many members believed the company’s studio was haunted. According to him, some trainees said they heard strange noises at night, and an object mysteriously moved on its own in one of the rooms.

SUGA confirmed he had seen something suspicious, mentioning that things sometimes disappeared and reappeared in different places with no explanation.

This part of the show brought lots of laughs and even a few chills, with the hosts joking about what they would do in their place.

Relationships and First Loves

During the show, a listener sent in a story about a disastrous date, and the hosts asked SUGA and RM if they had similar experiences.

RM revealed that his first relationship happened online. He said that, at the time, online dating seemed exciting, but later he realized it was different from what he imagined.

He also said he was too shy to approach girls in person and that the internet felt like a safer place to express himself.

SUGA shared that, as a kid, he had an unrequited love. He said he confessed to a classmate but was turned down.

The hosts and RM teased him, asking if it still affected him, and SUGA laughed, saying he was over it.

Talking with Listeners and Music Picks

Throughout the show, RM and SUGA also talked with listeners, giving advice on different topics. One listener wrote in saying they felt left out for being single, and RM answered that, in his opinion, being alone wasn’t a bad thing and that every stage of life has its own special moments.

Wrap-up and Thanks

Near the end of the show, SUGA and RM thanked the hosts for having them and said it was a fun experience. They said BTS was still at the start of their career but determined to grow and show the public what they had to offer.

The hosts praised the two and said they couldn’t wait to see how BTS would evolve. The show ended with songs picked by SUGA and RM, and listeners got to see a more relaxed, sincere side of the two artists.

Releases

BTS – “Beautiful”

Beautiful by 방탄소년단

“어른아이” (Adult Child) MV – RM, SUGA and Jin

BTS released the “어른아이” (Adult Child) MV, performed by RM, SUGA and Jin. The song explores the transition from youth to adulthood, dealing with feelings of uncertainty, nostalgia and the responsibilities that come with time.

어른아이 by 방탄소년단

Logs

J-Hope and Jimin – Celebrating Jimin’s birthday

J-Hope and Jimin recorded a special vlog to celebrate Jimin’s birthday.

Jimin said he was very happy with all the birthday wishes and that, now a year older, he wanted to enjoy this new stage of life.

They also talked about the surprise party the members threw, which went on until six in the morning and included fried chicken, one of Jimin’s favorite foods.

He ended the vlog saying he wanted to make the most of the last hours of his special day.

SUGA – Producing his first mixtape

SUGA recorded a vlog in the studio, where he shared his progress on his first mixtape.

He said he was nervous and excited to be working on a solo project, mentioning that it would be the first time he released a mixtape with his own beats.

SUGA said the mixtape’s style would be different from BTS’s albums, with a more personal, experimental approach.

He asked fans to look forward to the release, hoping they would like what he was creating.

RM – Thoughts on his identity as an artist

RM shared a thoughtful vlog in the studio, discussing his identity as an artist and the challenges of his career.

He said he had always seen himself as an artist within the idol world, but realized people’s perception of him varied.

This thought came after long writing and recording sessions, when he asked himself what else he could show the public in the future.

RM also talked about adapting to the intense pace of idol life and how his mind was constantly overloaded with thoughts about his role in music and in his relationships.

He quoted a Korean proverb about meetings and goodbyes, reflecting on how human connections are part of everyone’s journey.

At the end, he mentioned he was working on a new song that he felt carried a special meaning. He encouraged fans to keep moving forward without overthinking.

V – Thoughts on promotions and next steps

V shared a vlog reflecting on BTS’s recent schedule and the group’s next steps.

He said that, although they had finished their recent promotions, he wished he could have shown more to fans. He was excited about upcoming events, including festivals and public broadcasts.

V said he was excited that “N.O” was finally being performed on music shows, saying it was his favorite song to perform.

He said the choreography was a challenge at first, but the group had now added easier moves for the audience to follow.

At the end of the video, he reminded fans to dress warmly because of the autumn cold: “Bundle up!”.

Other Important Moments of October 2013

BTS performs “Paldogangsan” on Show Champion

BTS took the Show Champion stage to perform “Paldogangsan”, a song that celebrates South Korea’s different regions through dialect and dynamic rap. The performance highlighted the group’s energy and their ability to mix culturally rich lyrics with an intense performance.

BANGTAN BOMB: Happy birthday, Jimin!

In a special BANGTAN BOMB, the BTS members celebrated Jimin’s birthday with a fun surprise.

[BANGTAN BOMB] Congratulations to Jimin! - BTS (방탄소년단)

BTS writes a touching letter to ARMY

During a special celebration, the BTS members wrote and read touching letters to ARMY, reflecting on their journey and how important the fans are in their lives.

Each member shared heartfelt words:

• RM talked about how ARMY changed his view of the world and said he wanted to be an inspiration to fans.
• Jin said he was grateful to be loved by so many people and wanted to give that love back by being a positive example.
• Jimin said the fans taught him to see life in a more positive, loving way.
• V said he wanted to be a source of happiness for those who support him.
• Jungkook said he was surprised to see so many fans following the group and that it motivated him every day.
• SUGA thanked ARMY for their constant support and reaffirmed his commitment to becoming a better artist.
• J-Hope said he gets emotional with the fans’ love and that it encourages him to push past his own limits.

The moment ended with a special BTS performance as a thank-you to ARMY. The celebration was full of emotion, music and a deep connection between the group and their fans.

BTS on ShimShimTaPa

On October 1, 2013, BTS appeared on the radio show ShimShimTaPa, hosted by Shindong (of Super Junior). During the broadcast, the members did relaxed interviews, challenges and live performances, creating memorable moments for fans.

1. Challenges and games

• Jungkook took on a “rock, paper, scissors” challenge to win prizes for listeners. If he beat 10 people in a row, listeners would get a fried chicken combo. With luck and strategy, he completed the mission!
• The members also played a game where they had to guess answers about themselves and their dorm habits.

2. Funny, spontaneous moments

• “Rap Monster” the destroyer: RM shared that he always ended up breaking things in the dorm, like headphones, speakers and even doorknobs. The members nicknamed him the “destroyer”.
• Jimin’s famous “abs reveal”: Jimin remembered a moment when his shirt accidentally rode up during a performance, showing off his muscles. It became a big topic among fans.
• SUGA and the “snack rule”: He said that, even though he is generous, when he asked to share food, the other members often complained or were reluctant to share.

3. Talking about their first mini album

BTS promoted the mini album “O!RUL8,2?”, explaining the concept and the message behind it. They said “N.O” had a strong social message about youth and happiness.

4. Live performances

• The members sang “We On” and other tracks from the mini album, giving listeners an exclusive live performance.
• J-Hope showed off his dance and freestyle skills.
• Jungkook and V tried imitating funny voices and sounds, cracking up the whole studio.

5. Wrap-up and plans

At the end of the show, BTS thanked fans for their support and talked about their plans to keep promoting “O!RUL8,2?” until the end of October 2013 before starting to prepare new projects.

Songs Released

BTS – “A Typical Idol’s Christmas”

BTS released “A Typical Idol’s Christmas”, a reworked version of “A Typical Trainee’s Christmas”, which they had shared in 2012.

The song has a fun, relaxed tone, describing idols’ routine during the holidays and the contrast between expecting a quiet Christmas and the reality of constant practice and schedules.

The track reflects BTS’s signature humor early in their career, combining funny lyrics with a catchy beat. The song is a reminder of the members’ constant effort, even on holidays.

Perfect Christmas – Special Sketch

RM and Jungkook took part in “Perfect Christmas”, a special project with Jo Kwon, Lim Jeong Hee and Joohee. The song has a warm, festive atmosphere, with soft melodies and a romantic touch, capturing the Christmas spirit.

조권, 임정희, 주희, 랩몬스터, 정국 Perfect Christmas - Special Sketch

Logs

Jin – Birthday log

Jin shared a special log to celebrate his birthday. He said that, until he was 20, he always celebrated with his parents and, the year before, with friends. This time, because of his schedule, he spent his birthday with his new family: the BTS members.

When he walked into the practice room, the members surprised him with a cake, but the celebration was quick, since the group devoured it all in just 15 seconds. Jin joked, calling them “super piggies”, and was impressed by how fast everyone ate.

He also thanked fans for their messages and said he was moved to see so many saying “Thank you for being born”. He promised to keep working hard so he would never disappoint them.

Finally, Jin said that, since it is a Korean tradition to eat seaweed soup (미역국) on your birthday, he wanted to follow the custom, but none of the members knew how to cook. So he decided to buy a ready-made version at the store. Before ending, he left a message for his mom, asking her to make him soup sometime.

Other Important Moments of December 2013

BANGTAN BOMB – Jin’s Birthday Party

BTS celebrated Jin’s birthday in a chaotic, fun way. As soon as Jin walked in, the members started singing happy birthday excitedly, while V took on the role of “V PD”, filming everything.

[BANGTAN BOMB] Jin's Bithday party (shooting by V PD) - BTS (방탄소년단)

BTS 꿀 FM 06.13 – Christmas Special

BTS released a special episode of their radio-style show “BTS 꿀 FM 06.13”, called “The Very Happy Christmas with BTS”. In the episode, the members shared Christmas stories, looked back on 2013 and interacted with fans.

Highlights included:

• Looking back on their debut year: The members talked about the intense routine of 2013 and how this was the first Christmas they felt the fans’ love.
• Jungkook and RM on “Perfect Christmas”: Jungkook said he was nervous recording with experienced artists and realized how much he needed his hyungs’ help.
• Reading fans’ stories: The members read stories about lonely Christmases and recommended songs to cheer listeners up, showing empathy and care for the audience.
• Jokes and random chats: V talked about how fast Christmas goes by and soon becomes “just the end of the year”. Jin talked about the intense rehearsals for year-end performances, and SUGA mentioned being tired, but also happy about the group’s achievements.

The episode ended with a special message from BTS to fans, thanking them for their support throughout 2013 and wishing for an even better 2014.

2013 SBS Gayo Daejun

BTS took part in the 2013 SBS Gayo Daejun, one of Korea’s biggest music festivals. It was one of the group’s first chances to perform alongside established artists.

[2013가요대전] 방탄소년단(BTS) 'No More Dream' / 'SBS Music Awards' Special Clip

2013 SBS Gayo Daejun – Performance practice

Before the event, BTS released a video of their rehearsals for the performance, showing their dedication and hard work for the stage.

2013 MBC Gayo Daejejeon

BTS also appeared at the 2013 MBC Gayo Daejejeon, another major year-end festival, cementing their presence in the Korean music industry.

【TVPP】BTS - Special stage + No More Dream, 방탄소년단 - 학원별곡 + 전사의 후예 + 노 모어 드림 @ 2013 KMF

2013 MBC Gayo Daejejeon – Performance practice

The rehearsals for this performance were also released on BANGTANTV, showing the behind the scenes and the group’s commitment.

Twitter – Celebrating V’s birthday

BTS celebrated V’s birthday with a special Twitter post, joking that he was the group’s “secret weapon” and congratulating him on turning 20.

#방탄소년단 의 비…뷔밀병기!! 이틀 뒤면 스무살이 되는 구오구오 뷔(방탄소년단 보컬, 표정 담당)군의 생일을 축하합니다!!! #뷔생일ㅊㅋ pic.twitter.com/rzrmTvKoTL

— BTS_official (@bts_bighit) December 29, 2013

Twitter – Thanks on the last day of 2013

On the last day of the year, BTS said how happy they were to have performed at the 2013 MBC Gayo Daejejeon and thanked fans for all their support since debut.

2013 가요대제전 #방탄소년단 무대 잘 보셨나요? 2013년의 마지막날에 무대에 설 수 있어서 행복한 방탄이들! 아미들 덕분입니다! 고마워요!^_−☆ #슈가는항상우리옆에있어요 pic.twitter.com/emNMeOlY61

— BTS_official (@bts_bighit) December 31, 2013

BTS’s 2013 EZKorea Magazine interview (in Portuguese)