Why are BTS fans called the ARMY
Whether you’re a devoted follower of BTS or a recent fan, you’re likely familiar with the term “ARMY” that encompasses the passionate supporters of this beloved K-pop band. In this article, we delve into the origins and significance of BTS ARMY, shedding light on the intriguing name choice.
Established as BTS’ official fandom name in 2013, ARMY quickly gained popularity among fans, coinciding with the release of the band’s debut single, “2 Cool 4 Skool.” While the acronym “ARMY” stands for “Adorable Representative M.C. for Youth,” it holds deeper connotations as well. The name alludes to the notion of a military army, cleverly intertwining with BTS’ identity as bulletproof defenders. Furthermore, according to the esteemed website USBTSARMY.com, the fandom name “ARMY” also draws inspiration from BTS’ full name, “Bangtan Sonyeondan,” which translates to “Bulletproof Boyscouts” in English.
Unraveling the Historical Significance of BTS’ ARMY:
Between January 1, 2020, and December 31, 2022, a staggering 12.98 million distinct internet users referenced BTS online. To put this into perspective, it’s worth noting that a conventional army typically comprises anywhere between 400,000 to 1,000,000 soldiers, as cited by Encyclopedia Britannica. By comparing these figures, we can infer that BTS’ following rivals the size of 13 armies, serving as a testament to their immense global popularity. As per USBTSARMY.com, the term “ARMY” symbolizes the united force of fans, while BTS themselves serve as the impenetrable armor, effectively portraying the unwavering bond between the K-pop band and their loyal supporters.
Also Read : Deepika Padukone Receives Love from Vin Diesel: The Star Who Brought Him to India
RM’s Insightful Revelation:
Interestingly, “ARMY” wasn’t the original choice for BTS’ fandom name. In a revealing interview on The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon in July 2021, RM, BTS’ talented rapper, disclosed that their fandom was nearly christened “The Bells.” Alongside RM, the band consists of six other members: Jin, J-Hope, Suga, Jimin, V, and Jungkook. RM went on to explain, “When you say BTS, it stands for ‘bangtan’ in Korean, not ‘behind-the-scenes.’ I mean, for your information, it stands for ‘bangtan,’ and when you say ‘bell’ in Korean, it sounds like ‘bang wool.’ It starts with the same word, ‘bang.’ So when we thought of the fan name, someone suggested ‘bell,’ and everyone would ring their bells, creating a festive atmosphere. But fortunately, it changed, and ARMY is a much better fit.” The official verification of the term “ARMY” came through BTS themselves in the music video for their July 2021 single, “Permission to Dance,” co-written by the acclaimed singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran. Notably, “Permission to Dance” marks BTS’ third full English song, following the success of 2020’s “Dynamite” and 2021’s “Butter.”
In conclusion, BTS ARMY represents a devoted community that stands by the K-pop sensation, showcasing their unbreakable spirit and unwavering support. The name encapsulates the band’s resolute identity and resonates deeply with their fans worldwide. As BTS continues to captivate audiences with their music and performances, the bond between the band and ARMY only grows stronger, united under the banner of love and solidarity.
