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On September 1, 1997, a star was born, and it is none other than Jeon Jungkook of the biggest K-pop boy group, BTS. However, with his talent and charm, the artist has made a name for himself beyond the group and the K-pop industry.
Today, let’s look back at the remarkable journey of a young boy from Busan who rose to become one of the most influential and beloved figures in the global music industry. Jungkook, the youngest member of BTS, has not only made waves in K-pop but has also emerged as a global pop icon whose influence transcends music, fashion, and culture.
The Beginning
Jungkook was born in Busan, South Korea; from a young age, Jungkook showed a deep passion for music and dance. His journey into the world of entertainment began when he auditioned for the talent show Superstar K at the age of 13. Although he didn't make it far in the competition, his undeniable talent caught the attention of several entertainment companies. Eventually, he chose to join BigHit Entertainment (now known as HYBE Corporation), a decision that would change the trajectory of his life and the global music industry.
The Golden Maknae
When Jungkook debuted as the youngest member, or maknae, of BTS in 2013, the group was relatively unknown. Their debut single, No More Dream, was the first step in a long journey to stardom. Jungkook, at just 15 years old, was not only a vocalist but also a skilled dancer, contributing to the group's dynamic performances.
Despite his youth, Jungkook quickly became known for his incredible work ethic and drive to improve. His natural talent, combined with hours of practice, allowed him to excel not only as a singer but also as a rapper, dancer, and songwriter. As BTS's music evolved, so did Jungkook, showcasing his versatility across various genres, from hip-hop to pop and R&B.
As BTS began to gain traction with their music, Jungkook’s role within the group continued to grow. His voice, characterized by its smoothness and emotional depth, became a defining element of BTS’s sound. Over the years, Jungkook’s vocals were prominently featured in many of BTS’s most popular tracks, such as Spring Day, Fake Love, and Euphoria. The latter, a solo track from the 2018 album Love Yourself: Answer, became an anthem for fans and solidified the artist’s position as one of the leading vocalists in K-pop.
Solo venture: GOLDEN
While Jungkook’s contributions to BTS were pivotal, his ambitions as a solo artist also began to take shape. Over the years, he released several solo tracks that showcased his individual style and artistry. However, it was with the release of his debut solo album, GOLDEN, in 2023 that Jungkook truly stepped into the spotlight as a global pop star.
GOLDEN was a highly anticipated album, and it did not disappoint. The album featured a blend of pop, R&B, and electronic influences, highlighting Jungkook’s versatility as an artist. His vocals were front and center, with each track offering a different facet of his musical identity. The album’s title, GOLDEN, symbolized not only Jungkook’s stage name, the ‘Golden Maknae,’ but also his evolution as an artist who shines in every aspect of his craft.
The lead single from the album Seven, featuring American rapper Latto, was an instant hit. The song topped charts worldwide, including the Billboard Hot 100, making Jungkook one of the first Korean solo artists to achieve this feat. Moreover, the music video of the song featured popular K-drama actress Han So Hee, which made it even more appealing to fans and garnered massive attention.
Another standout track from the album was 3D, featuring Jack Harlow. With its classic pop sound and catchy lyrics, this song showcased Jungkook’s ability to seamlessly blend different genres and collaborate with artists from diverse musical backgrounds. The album as a whole received critical acclaim, with many praising Jungkook’s growth as a solo artist and his ability to captivate listeners with his voice and artistry.
However, the song that took everyone’s breath away is none other than Standing Next to You. With an upbeat rhythm and catchy melody, it echoes a Michael Jackson song. The addictive dance break, which went viral on social media platforms, definitely brought back the 90s pop elements. If Michael Jackson was still here, he would have surely done the Standing Next to You challenge.
As Jungkook continues to evolve as an artist, his influence on the global music industry is undeniable. He has broken down barriers for Korean artists and set new standards for what it means to be a global pop star. His journey from a young boy in Busan with a dream to a global icon is an inspiration to millions around the world.
