K-pop doesn't give time to mature, says BTS member as group decides to focus on solo projects

Korean Pop music giants BTS has announced their big decision to focus on their solo careers, just days after the band dropped their most anticipated album 'Proof' on June 10. The singers made the announcement at the annual FESTA dinner that celebrates the group's founding. Speaking at the occasion, band leader RM, said he had been feeling a need to explore his own work without the constant recording and performing required of BTS.

"The problem with K-pop and the whole idol system is that they don’t give you time to mature. You have to keep producing music and keep doing something," Reuters quoted RM who was seated at a table with his six fellow band members and speaking in Korean.

The members, during the dinner party, also opened up about their willingness to embark on solo journeys. During the discussions, one of the band members reportedly said the band has entered an off period/ off season. However, the English translation in the video, which was posted by the band on Twitter, read 'hiatus', a description a representative for the band disputed in a statement.

"To be clear, they are not on hiatus but will take time to explore some solo projects at this time and remain active in various different formats," the statement said. BTS made its debut in June 2013 and became a worldwide sensation with its upbeat hits and social campaigns aimed at empowering young people. The latest album 'Proof', is an ode to their glorious past, present and future.

Last year, BTS became the first Asian band to win artist of the year at the American Music Awards. The group met U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House in May to discuss hate crimes targeting Asians.

 

With inputs from Reuters/ Lisa Richwine