BTS member Jungkook tests positive for COVID-19 in Las Vegas

BTS idol Jungkook has been diagnosed with COVID-19 shortly after his arrival in the United States on Monday.

“We would like to provide you with some information on BTS member Jungkook being diagnosed with Covid-19. Jungkook was tested negative on a PCR test in Korea, and he departed for the United States on Sunday, March 27 (KST) in preparation for the Grammy Awards performance,” Big Hit Music said in a statement on March 29.

They added, “After arriving in Las Vegas, he felt a slight discomfort in his throat and promptly took a rapid PCR test (Covid-19 molecular PCR test) and a standard PCR test (Covid-19 quantitative PCR test) on the afternoon of Sunday, March 27 (PT).”

“While being under self-quarantine as a proactive measure, the result of both tests came back positive, and Jungkook was confirmed with COVID-19 on Monday, March 28 (PT) [March 29 in the Philippines].”

"Regarding his participation in the Grammy Awards where BTS will perform, Jungkook's participation in the later schedule in the United States will be determined by the local regulations on COVID-19. While we are actively in discussion with the awards organizer.”

Big Hit added, "We would like to extend our sincerest apologies to our fans for causing you concern despite our effort to take all necessary measures for our artists' health prior to and throughout the schedule in the United States. We ask for your generous understanding and support from all our fans.”

They concluded, “We will continue to provide support for the rapid recovery of Jungkook, placing our highest priority on the health and safety of our artists. We will also continue to fully cooperate with the requests and guidelines of healthcare authorities.”

Jungkook had departed ahead of the other members for earlier preparations.

Meanwhile, member J-Hope has also recently tested positive for COVID-19 and remained in Seoul as RM, Jin, Jimin, and V flew to Los Angeles.

BTS is set to perform at the Grammy Awards on April 3. The group is nominated for Best Pop/Duo Group Performance for their hit single "Butter."

They have also been scheduled to hold a concert in Las Vegas on April 8, 9, 15, and 16.

Take a look at Jungkook's photos here: