BTS has seven members, and each of them is equally important in creating the BTS we know today. If even one member were мιѕѕιиg, the group would no longer be the BTS that fans love. That is also why the return of the full lineup in March this year, after three years of hiatus, has been so highly anticipated and meaningful.

The number 7, representing the seven members of BTS, is considered “untouchable.” However, over the years, fans have often come up with humorous theories about the possibility of an eighth member. There have been various “candidates” for BTS’s eighth member, such as V’s late beloved dog Yeontan or their long-time bodyguard, affectionately known as Mr. Lee—both of whom are well-known within the fandom and have been closely αѕѕociated with the group for nearly a decade.

Some have even pointed out that at one point during their trainee days, BTS may actually have had up to eight members in the lineup. BigHit staff have also confirmed that the BTS project initially included more than seven members before their official debut. Even actors like Kim Seon Ho and Eric Nam have expressed interest in becoming potential additions to BTS.

However, one common point is that all of these theories originate from fans. Over the years, the only “eighth member” officially recognized by BTS themselves is just one—ARMY! Recently, the group once again reaffirmed the identity of this “eighth member” in an interview released on WIRED’s YouTube channel.

Specifically, when asked the question “Who is the eighth member of BTS?” related to the keyword “BTS,” the members answered in unison, loudly and confidently: “ARMY!”—without even a second of hesitation. Jin even added: "ARMY is actually our member, though. Because they’re always with us. "

Previously, in a letter to fans, RM directly addressed them: “To ARMYs, the eighth member of BTS, thank you so much." In the same letter, RM shared a heartfelt message, saying that ARMY always gives him strength and that his words might serve as comfort when they are apart. He also expressed deep gratitude for ARMY’s companionship and love for BTS over the years, considering it an indispensable part of their journey.

These repeated affirmations from BTS in general—and RM in particular—about ARMY’s role highlight just how much the group values the unwavering support and companionship that fans have given them from debut to their current success. At this point, it can be said that no matter who it is—even celebrities who wish to join BTS as the eighth member—that position has already been filled.

When this content was shared on social media, fans expressed their excitement over the way BTS spoke about ARMY and the special bond they share:

- BTS called armys the 8th member and these were our jokes for that imaginary 8th member....we were making fun of ourselves 

- Proudest moment of my army life, making this list

- So if anyone asks me who I am I can say to them I'm the 8th member of BTS

- Turns out we are the eighth member of BTS. I always thought it was that chair they leave us looking at during vlives

- Does that mean we gonna have to beatbox cause I’m on my way…

- And when we say BTS PAVED THE WAY we are part of it

- We made fun of the non existence 8th member and it turns out to be us all this time

- I realized that today for the first time ever we are called eighth member, but I have always considered us as the eighth member it's been like a established fact for me eversince, why so? from where did I get that?

- I've witnessed bts saying no 8th member, no room, go on roof to ARMY finally and happily being called the 8th member

- The love never felt one sided. Armys, we finally f*cking made it man