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This year’s celebrations hold extra significance as BTS members reunite during their mandatory military service break.

South Korea requires all able-bodied men to serve 18-21 months in the military. (Photo: X)
BTS, the global K-pop sensation, is celebrating its 12th anniversary since debuting on June 13, 2013. Over the years, the group, made up of RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook, has made an indelible mark on global pop culture, delivering iconic music and unforgettable performances that continue to resonate deeply with their loyal fanbase, ARMY.
To commemorate the occasion, leader RM, aka Kim Namjoon, penned a heartfelt letter to fans on Weverse. In his emotional note, he wrote, “Happy Birthday, BTS. 6/13 is here again. I can’t believe it’s June 13 again. Last year’s 6/13 wasn’t easy. It’s 250613. I’ve been waiting longer than you. I’ve been waiting, waiting, really waiting.”
Reflecting on their journey, RM continued, “The 12th anniversary… 12 years old! It feels like my niece from the multiverse. I’m glad you grew up well. Listen carefully to your parents—no, maybe just a little. It’s one of those nights when these kinds of thoughts come to mind… I really didn’t know today would come.”
This year’s celebrations hold extra significance as BTS members reunite during their mandatory military service break. The BTS FESTA festivities, which began on May 31, will continue through June 29, with a major two-day fan event planned at KINTEX Exhibition Center 2 in Goyang, South Korea, on June 13 and 14.
The FESTA will include interactive game zones, DIY photo card stations, and a special coloring wall inspired by BTS’ discography—offering fans a vibrant and immersive experience.
Social media has been flooded with love, as ARMYs across the world shared emotional tributes and memories. One user wrote, “HAPPY ANNIVERSARY BTS. WE STAYED BTS.” Another posted, “Thank you so much & I love you for the rest of my life, BTS… happy 12th anniversary, my universe.”
Shrishti Negi is a journalist with over eight years of experience in the media industry. She leads the Entertainment desk at News18.com. She writes breaking news stories, generates feature ideas, edits copies, …Read More
Shrishti Negi is a journalist with over eight years of experience in the media industry. She leads the Entertainment desk at News18.com. She writes breaking news stories, generates feature ideas, edits copies, … Read More
- Location :
Seoul, South Korea
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