The Struggles to Success of South Korea’s Pride: Bangtan Sonyeodan
Written by: Ashley Budiman

Currently, the best-selling artist in Korean history, the most successful boy band, and arguably the most successful Asian artist, the Korean group BTS, originally formed to be a small hip-hop group, is now one of the biggest artists worldwide. With reportedly over 800 awards since their debut, over 74 daesangs, 5 Grammy nominations, and the Asian Artist of the Year for seven consecutive years, this group regarded as ‘South Korea’s pride’ has achieved unprecedented success. But despite where they are now, their journey to success was not an easy one. On the contrary, they faced many struggles and difficulties that shaped them into the successful individuals they are today.

 

In the early years of their career, BTS struggled to gain mainstream success even in their home country. They released their debut album in 2013, but it didn't chart well. Despite their ability to easily sell out large stadiums nowadays, BTS has not always had an easy time getting people to watch them perform. As shown on the reality show American Hustle Life, the group had to hand out fliers inviting passersby to a free concert. Back in 2016, the group was supposed to perform at the Busan One Asia Festival but was pulled out at the last minute. The group still performed at the end of the show, but without the special effects that other artists received, and was cut off from live TV.

 

The group was also mistreated on reality shows several times during their early careers. When Jungkook appeared on Flower Crew, he brought burgers and sodas for the hosts. However, instead of accepting the food, the show cast members said the burgers looked like leftovers and told Jungkook to take them away, despite Jungkook’s insistence that he had sincerely bought them. Many fans remarked that he appeared to be holding back tears. 

 

Money was another problem for the group back then. Until 2016, all seven members had to share a small dorm with a single bathroom. Two of the members, V and Suga, came from humble origins. V was born into a poor but loving family of farmers and stated that he once believed his destiny was to become a farmer. He even used to think that beautiful things were out of reach. Suga was also born into a poor family and had to choose between eating and taking a bus every day. He had to work part-time jobs for money and even attempted to sell his music but was ripped off. And though they supported him later on, his parents initially disapproved of his desire to pursue a music career.

 

The members have also faced depression and self-esteem issues due to hate and racism. They faced discrimination as Asians and were mocked for the way they looked. Back then, KPOP wasn’t as common as it is now. Their lavish makeup and costumes drew criticism from the sexist and prejudiced public and derogatory comments from other fandoms due to their achievements. RM and Suga, who were formerly rappers, were mocked and humiliated by other rappers during a radio program due to their ‘girly’ appearances. 

 

The group had encountered numerous difficulties throughout their career; however, they carried on and, through perseverance and hard work, they got to where they are today. Their success is a source of inspiration for many individuals worldwide who face their own difficulties. Their story tells us that to reach success, you need perseverance to overcome the challenges ahead of you.

 

Sources: 

BTS’ struggles before fame, from playing free K-pop concerts in Hollywood to sharing one dorm room and getting dissed by variety show hosts. (2021, August 10). Koreatimes. https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/world/2024/03/501_313671.html

 

Tan, C. (2021, October 7). 10 Korean stars who went from rags to riches, including BTS’ V, Park Bo-Gum and IU. Tatler Asia. https://www.tatlerasia.com/lifestyle/entertainment/korean-celebrities-rags-to-riches-bts-v-suga-park-bo-gum-iu-han-so-hee

 

BTS share experiences of racism, lend their support to #StopAsianHate. (2021, March 30). WION. https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bts-share-experiences-of-racism-lend-their-support-to-stopasianhate-374302

 

BTS share experiences of racism, lend their support to #StopAsianHate. (2021b, March 30). WION. https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bts-share-experiences-of-racism-lend-their-support-to-stopasianhate-374302