How long will a K-pop group last? RM reflects on BTS' years together

 

In the "harsh" market of K-Pop, where artists we seen as "products" and fans as "consumers," it is not easy for a group to survive for long. Every year, countless new idol groups debut, bringing with them striking visuals and diverse talents, creating a "marketplace" no less competitive than any other industry.

It is exactly within that whirlwind that the golden era of idol groups becomes shorter and more fragile than ever.

K-pop history has proven than the lifespan of a group visually lasts only 5 to 7 years. Many groups disband just a few years after debut, or lose their former glory when waves of rookies continuously take over.

Maintaining the original lineup and staying at the top for a decade is almost an impossible mission for many names. However, BTS is a spectacular exception!

After more than 12 years of activity, the group has not only overcome K-Pop's famous "seven-year curse" but also continued to affirm their status as a living legacy of Korean culture. Even during and after their temporary pause to fulfill military service, the name BTS remained prominent on charts and social media platforms, proving their unwavering influence.

Witnessing BTS break past the limits of an ordinary K-pop group, MC Jaeki Cho once posed the question: "Would you like to see BTS performing together maybe even 10, 20, 30 years later?"

On behalf of the members, RM responded with a firm declaration, said, "This is us talking because we want to do this for a long time. We passed the so-called seven-year limits... BTS stands for Bangtan Boys, and we envision ourselves becoming 'Bangtan Papas' or even 'Bangtan Grandpas'. Maybe 20 or 30 years later. That's what we want. BTP (Bangtan Papas), let's go!"

RM's words quickly spreads across social media, affirming the future lineup of BTS—putting to rest all doubts about the group's unity. When he talked about the vision of BTS becoming "Bangtan Papas" or even "Bangtan Grandpas," it was not merely a humorous remark, but a confident declaration of the group's longevity.

In an industry that frequently sees disbandments or lineup changes, BTS' solidarity and persevance are what make them stand out. This moved ARMYs earned admiration online for the members' incredible friendship.

In addition, RM's statement clearly reflects the group’s commitment to maintaining their artistic value and global impact. BTS has never focused solely on instant fame, but has always aimed to create music with personal identity and spread positive messages.

They understand that the stature of an artist does not lie only in how many times they top the charts, but in their ability to inspire and build long-lasting connections with listeners. That’s why the members’ shared vision for the future only strengthens fans’ trust in BTS’s next chapter.

It’s not just RM – other BTS members have also repeatedly emphasized their desire to stay together as a group. Jungkook once said: "I just want our team BTS to be together for as long as we can", while SUGA expressed: "Recently, I just keep thinking more and more about our team. We must make a breakthrough in 2025."

Even V left a memorable promise before enlisting: "We've already made so many memories with ARMY over the years but I'd like to make more in 2025. If you can just wait for us a little longer...We'll come back more awesome than ever". ARMYs truly did wait, and BTS has returned – turning that promise into reality!