13 years with BTS: 13 things to know about the global K-pop phenomenon

June 13 is a special day for BTS — the South Korean supergroup is celebrating its 13th anniversary.

Whether you’re a fan or not, it's hard to avoid word about the group’s journey, achievements, and legacy.

Here are 13 interesting things to know about BTS:

BTS is made up of seven members

BTS consists of seven members: RM (Kim Namjoon), Jin (Kim Seokjin), Suga (Min Yoongi), J-Hope (Jung Hoseok), Jimin (Park Jimin), V (Kim Taehyung), and Jungkook (Jeon Jungkook). RM serves as the leader.

The group officially debuted in 2013 with the single “No More Dream.”

From underdogs to global stars

BTS, short for Bangtan Sonyeondan or “Bulletproof Boy Scouts,” began their career under the small agency BigHit Music, which now consudered a label under the congolomerate HYBE.

In their early years, the group faced limited resources and tough competition. However, through persistence, talent, and strong fan support, they gradually rose to become one of the biggest boy bands in the world.

BTS Festa celebrates their debut

June 13 marks BTS’s official debut anniversary, celebrated annually through BTS Festa. While “No More Dream” was released on June 12, 2013, their first televised performance took place on June 13, which is now recognized as their official debut date.

Every year, Festa brings special releases such as songs, photos, and videos for fans. For this year, igHit Music announced the track “Come Over” as part of the 2026 Festa lineup.

ARMY: More than a fandom

BTS’s fandom, ARMY which stands for Adorable Representative MC for Youth, was officially named in 2013.

Beyond its acronym, ARMY symbolizes the connection between the group and fans: BTS is the “armor,” while ARMY represents the “military,” showing mutual protection and support.

A massive music catalog

According to BigHit Music, BTS has released more than 20 albums and nearly 300 songs.

Their debut album was "2 Cool 4 Skool," featuring “No More Dream.” Their most recent album, “Arirang,” released on March 20, includes the lead single “Swim.”

Five-time Grammy nominees

BTS has earned multiple Grammy nominations, marking historic milestones for K-pop:

• 63rd Grammy Awards: Best Pop Duo/Group Performance (Nominee)
• 64th Grammy Awards: Best Pop Duo/Group Performance (Nominee)
• 65th Grammy Awards: Album of the Year (Coldplay – “Music of the Spheres”)
• 65th Grammy Awards: Best Pop Duo/Group Performance (“My Universe”)
• Best Music Video (“Yet To Come”)

They remain one of the most globally recognized K-pop acts in Grammy history.

Other international achievements

Aside from Grammy nominations, BTS has also received major awards and global recognition.

BTS made history as the first Asian act to win Artist of the Year at the 2021 American Music Awards. They repeated the win in 2026, along with honors such as Best Male K-pop Artist and Song of the Summer for “Swim.”

They also won Best Group at the MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) for four consecutive years (2019–2022) and became the only act to win Best K-pop three years in a row (2019–2021).
Guinness World Records hall of fame inductees

In 2022, BTS entered the Guinness World Records Hall of Fame after setting 23 records in music and social media.

They were later featured in the 2026 ICONs edition, which honors globally influential record-breakers.

Global stage: The United Nations

Apart from performing on stage, BTS has delivered powerful messages at the United Nations multiple times. In 2018, RM delivered their first UN speech during UNICEF’s “Generation Unlimited” launch, encouraging youth to “Speak Yourself.”

They returned in 2020 with a message of hope during the COVID-19 pandemic and again in 2021 as Special Presidential Envoys for South Korea, addressing global challenges and future generations. They also performed “Permission to Dance” at the UN headquarters.

Historic White House visit

In May 2022, BTS visited the White House to meet US President Joe Biden.

The visit focused on raising awareness about anti-Asian hate crimes and promoting inclusion and representation.

All seven members have completed their military services

During BTS Festa 2022, the group announced a temporary pause in group activities following the release of their anthology album “Proof.”

The hiatus allowed members to pursue solo projects while completing mandatory military service in South Korea. Jin was the first to enlist in December 2022, while Suga was the last to complete service, finishing in June 2025.

Successful solo careers

During their break, all members pursued solo music, performances, and tours. Each achieved chart success, including entries on the Billboard Hot 100.

Their solo work allowed them to explore individual artistry while confirming that BTS remains intact.

Philanthropy and global impact

BTS partnered with UNICEF in 2017 for the “Love Myself” campaign against violence toward children and adolescents, donating 500 million won to launch the initiative.

In 2020, they donated $1 million to the Black Lives Matter movement, which was matched by ARMY through global fundraising efforts.

Their influence continues to inspire charitable projects worldwide.

A long-awaited return to the Philippines

BTS has visited the Philippines several times, including their 2014 “Red Bullet” concert, the 2016 “Epilogue Tour,” and the 2017 “Wings Tour.”

More than a decade later, the group is expected to return for a two-day concert in Bulacan in March 2027, marking a highly anticipated comeback for Filipino fans.