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Laughter echoed across the grassy field of Yeouido Hangang Park on Saturday as RM, the charismatic leader of global sensation BTS, captivated the crowd with heartfelt fan stories during the group's 10th anniversary festival. In a special live talk show session titled "It's 5 PM and this is Kim Namjun," RM, whose real name is Kim Namjun, read a touching message from a dedicated fan who had discovered BTS in her middle school years and had grown up alongside the band.
RM reminisced, "I remember training to become a singer as a student with Yoongi (Suga), and it feels strange celebrating our 10th anniversary like this right now."
The event, held in Seoul's Yeouido district, drew an audience of 3,000 enthusiastic fans who filled the seats of the Army Lounge, a dedicated area within the park. Army refers to the devoted fan base of BTS. The event was also live-streamed worldwide via the popular platform Weverse.
Commencing the gathering at 5 p.m., RM opened the session by sharing stories sent in by fans, celebrating the band's remarkable decade-long journey. Seven different stories, each representing a unique connection to the group, highlighted how BTS's music and messages had comforted and inspired fans through various life experiences.
One fan recalled her life-changing first BTS concert at Wembley Stadium in London in 2019. The Seoul-based fan had impulsively purchased a ticket to the concert after going through a difficult breakup. RM read her message aloud, conveying her gratitude for the concert that had lifted her spirits and illuminated a hopeful path, ultimately leading her to find a new partner and embark on the journey towards marriage.
Another fan, a Korean teacher, shared how she had discovered BTS in order to connect with her foreign students who were ardent fans of the K-pop phenomenon. Spending countless nights watching BTS videos, she eventually became a devoted Army herself, supporting the group for an impressive seven years.
Moved by the stories, RM expressed his appreciation, saying, "I'm aware that many fans have studied Korean to understand our messages and lyrics. I understand how challenging it can be to learn a new language. I'm incredibly grateful that you all are doing it out of pure love and passion for us. Thank you."
During the event, surprises ensued as bandmates Jungkook and V made surprise phone calls, with Jungkook reaching out from Los Angeles and V, whose real name is Taehyung, joining from his home. Teasingly, RM hinted at Jungkook's highly anticipated solo debut, scheduled for July.
Concluding the first part of the event, RM graced the stage with a captivating performance of his solo song "Persona."
The second part of the festival was packed with interactive games hosted through Weverse, further engaging fans in the celebratory atmosphere.
As the one-and-a-half-hour-long event neared its end, RM reflected, "Time has passed, and so much has changed. I've also changed significantly. I used to frequent Yeouido Hangang Park a lot during my trainee days. Never would I have imagined back then that I would hold a Weverse live event for our 10th anniversary and meet all of you here."
Sayart.net
Blue YIM, yimyoungseo1010@naver.com
