Jungkook at 29: The global pop star who never quite stopped being himself
As Jungkook turns 29, his journey from BTS maknae to solo star comes into focus. The arc shows how he has expanded as a performer while remaining recognisably himself.
BTS, also known as Bangtan Sonyeondan, is a South Korean seven-member boy band that has become a global phenomenon since their debut in 2013. Renowned for their intricate choreography, genre-blending music, and socially conscious lyrics, they have garnered a massive international following, known as the 'ARMY'. BTS seamlessly combine K-pop, hip-hop, R&B, and pop, while addressing themes such as mental health, self-love, and youth struggles, earning them critical acclaim, numerous awards, and a pivotal role in spreading Korean culture worldwide.
As Jungkook turns 29, his journey from BTS maknae to solo star comes into focus. The arc shows how he has expanded as a performer while remaining recognisably himself.
Swedish singer and songwriter Zara Larsson rejected a 2027 Grammys Best New Artist submission, arguing the category would overlook her 13-year career despite the resurgence driven by Midnight Sun.
Madonna leads the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards nominations with 11 nods, ahead of Taylor Swift's nine and BTS' two for SWIM. The list sets up a major night for established contenders as Swift chases the all-time Moon Person record.
HYBE India CEO Damien Woochang Lee, in an exclusive chat with India Today, reveals plans to nurture Indian talent, bring BTS and other K-pop artists to India, and foster global music collaborations.
Did BTS reject representation, or simply outgrow the need for it? Here we examine why the Grammys' new Asian Pop category has sparked a larger conversation about identity, recognition and artistic equality.
BTS have chosen not to submit their music for this year's Grammys, and Harvey Mason Jr has responded to the move. The decision has intensified discussion around the new Asian Pop category and how artists are recognised across languages.
BTS has chosen not to participate in this year’s Grammys, emphasising music’s power beyond language and regional categories. Their decision challenges traditional recognition systems, highlighting their role in reshaping the global music industry from an Indian perspective.
Popular Korean band BTS said they will not submit their music for the Grammys this year. The move followed the Academy's new Asian pop category and sparked fan discussion.
The NEET paper leak protests in India found an unexpected soundtrack in BTS’ early music, resonating deeply with the youth. This cultural moment highlights how art transcends borders and generations, inspiring hope and resilience amidst adversity.
IShowSpeed's animated reaction to BTS' halftime performance at the Spain versus Argentina World Cup final went viral, and he later met the group backstage.
Tom Cruise opened the FIFA World Cup 2026 final with a speech on football's power to unite people. His address set the tone for a showpiece night that ended with Spain beating Argentina after extra time.
FIFA’s first World Cup final halftime show brought Madonna, BTS, Justin Bieber, Shakira, Burna Boy and Coldplay together in an 11-minute set. Fans quickly latched on to Jungkook and Shakira's shared moments as the tournament unveiled a new musical spectacle.
BTS has unveiled their much-anticipated NORMAL music video, wrapping up an innovative teaser campaign that captured global attention. The understated release reframes fame through friendship, silence, and the search for ordinary moments.
BTS has once again proven that their group identity remains at the heart of all they do, even after years of solo projects and military service. Their recent ARIRANG tour and documentary beautifully capture this spirit, showing fans across the world the unbreakable bond of seven members performing as one.
BTS launched a tabloid-style teaser campaign ahead of the NORMAL music video release. The stunt went viral as fans linked the ads to the group's wider ARIRANG rollout.
BigHit Music has rejected a US copyright lawsuit alleging BTS' single Swim copied an unreleased demo by three American songwriters. The dispute centres on claims the demo was circulated within the industry before the chart-topping track's release.
Actor Alia Bhatt shared unseen behind-the-scenes photos and videos from the YRF spy thriller, Alpha. She offered fans a glimpse of the film's action-packed shoot.
Ranbir Kapoor and Yash attended a Ramayana event for more than 150 content creators. Exclusive BTS footage and attendee posts have deepened curiosity around the film's scale and vision.
A behind-the-scenes clip from India's Got Latent 2 shows actor Alia Bhatt praising comedian Samay Raina and sharing a story about watching the show beside Raha. The video has added to the conversation around the new season, which has drawn mixed reactions online.
Concert culture is on the rise, and people are not just splurging on it. In Japan, many are even seeking a little divine intervention.
President Donald Trump revealed at his first cabinet meeting after the Iran attack that Iran gave the United States 10 oil tankers as a gift.
K-pop in India is entering a new phase, and Mumbai is at the centre of it. Starting December 12, Jungkook of BTS opened his first-ever solo exhibition in India, drawing fans from across the country and marking the first official BTS-related on-ground activity here. Know more on this.
Audrey Hobert spoke to India Today's Bhavna Agarwal on her debut record, working with Gracie Abrams, the challenges she endured for her debut record and more.
KPop Demon Hunters' Arden Cho, who gave her voice to Rumi, spoke to India Today's Bhavna Agarwal about the Netflix's most watched film of all times and more.
Russian President Putin and US President Trump had an hour-long phone conversation discussing the Ukraine war and Middle East conflicts. Putin expressed readiness for negotiations with Ukraine but without compromising on Russia's goals. Prime Minister Narendra Modi continues his five-nation tour, arriving in Trinidad and Tobago after visiting Ghana. In the US, debate continues on a major budget bill, with Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries filibustering to delay the vote. The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict is also discussed, with Israeli PM Netanyahu rejecting ceasefire proposals while Hamas considers new proposals. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues, with severe food and medical shortages reported.
In an exclusive interview with India Today’s Bhavna Agarwal, global star Jackson Wang opens up about his upcoming album Magic Man 2, second visit to India, his collaboration with Diljit Dosanjh, the emotional and creative process behind it, and what turning 31 has meant for him. Jackson speaks candidly about navigating life without a label, how he still approaches trust with caution, and what vulnerability with fans truly looks like for him.
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Park Gyu-young, starring in Squid Game 2 as a North Korean defector, spoke to India Today’s Bhavna Agarwal about filming solo, feeling lonely on set, and her interest in Bollywood. She also reacted to the viral BTS' V cameo rumor in Season 3, sparking excitement for the Netflix series.
In an exclusive chat with India Today’s Bhavna Agarwal, the Squid Game 2 stars Yim Siwan and Jo Yuri opened up about their roles, life lessons for their characters, thoughts on starring together in a non-toxic drama, and if they would like to star in a Bollywood film together.
In an exclusive chat with India Today’s Bhavna Agarwal, Wi Ha-jun of Squid Game shared insights on staying grounded despite his meteoric rise to fame, addressed concerns about Jun-ho’s reduced screen time in Season 2, and expressed his desire to star in a Bollywood action movie. He also reacted to rumors of BTS' V making a cameo in Squid Game 3.
Big Ocean, K-pop’s first deaf group, is breaking boundaries in the music world. Consisting of three members- Hyunjin, Chanyeon, and Jiseok, the group, in an exclusive interview with India Today’s Bhavna Agarwal, shared their inspiring journey and reflected on the challenges of navigating the industry, and how the K-pop industry has become sensitive to their needs and is more inclusive.
Ed Sheeran is in Mumbai for his second tour. In an exclusive chat with India Today’s Bhavna Agarwal, the singer spoke about his love for India and his excitement at meeting fans here.
Have you seen your favourite K-pop idols like EXO Sehun's, V, Jin from BTS, Yoon Jisung, or Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa from Blackpink sipping on Boba tea? If there’s one beverage, that’s an instant hit. It’s Boba or Bubble tea. This Taiwanese drink with chewy tapiocas, popping bobas, and coconut jelly, makes it stand out. It has seen a global boom. Thanks to Korea’s entertainment industry, with K-pop idols like Blackpink and K-drama, 'My Bubble Tea' being fans of the beverage.
K-pop isn't just a trend; it's a cultural phenomenon worldwide. Watch how young Indians are channeling their inner BTS, Super Junior, EXO & Blackpink as they set on to conquer the KPOP idol-ism, in desi style!
Quickstyle Crew was recently in India and Bhavna Agarwal of India Today spoke to the talented group about their journey. They also spoke about their collaboration with BTS members for Save Me, Boy With Love, Blood, Sweat and Tears and Best of Me. Bilal, one of the members, recalled meeting BTS in Tokyo. They also have a heartfelt message for Shah Rukh Khan.
BTS has a fandom which can go to any lengths to show love for them. This has happened in Pakistan too. Watch to know more.
Under South Korean law, all men are required to perform 18-21 months of military service. Jin, the oldest member, faces possible enlistment next year after turning 30 in December. But South Korea is debating if they should be given exemptions. Commissioner of the Military Manpower Administration said that it’s “desirable” for BTS members to fulfil their military duties. Should the BTS members serve in the army? Watch to know more #BTSarmy