On the 7th, Audacy Music uploaded a 15-minute interview video titled BTS | Audacy Check In, which quickly drew mαѕѕive attention from fans worldwide. In this episode, all seven members of BTS appeared together in New York to talk about their explosive reunion. The members shared how they continuously exchanged ideas through a group chat during their military service and expressed their excitement about returning to the studio after nearly seven years to complete a full-length album.
The group mentioned the title track “SWIM” as a message about constantly moving forward. RM also explained the diversity of the B-side tracks such as “Hooligan” and “Animals.” BTS set a goal to complete their world tour in good health and hope the album will remain on the Billboard charts for a long time. SUGA even joked about a 30-week target, with many fans believing his “Minstradamus” prophecy might come true.
On the other hand, one of the major topics that took up a significant portion of the conversation was their fans—who had waited for BTS throughout their three-year hiatus. Both the host of Audacy Music and the BTS members couldn’t help but express admiration for the unwavering pαѕѕion and dedication of ARMYs. The host was also curious about the members’ thoughts on seeing Day 1 fans blending seamlessly with a new wave of supporters, asked: "Speaking to the fans, how wild is to have so many Day 1 fans since debut seeing them mixed in with new fans, what does that mean (for you)?"
Jin then revealed a heartwarming “secret” about ARMY’s fandom culture. He shared: “There is a really interesting fan culture, whenever we have a show, for example they would crop our faces from photos or pack snacks and share with fans next to them. Even with our lightsticks if someone runs out of batteries they'll step in and share their extras.”
What impressed Jin the most was how long-time fans actively help and “guide” new fans into the community. There is no distance, no discrimination—just everyone coming together to form one big family called ARMY. “Seeing long-time fans stepping in to help settle in new fans really makes me proud and touched. Our fans are really amazing people,” Jin said with emotion.
In a fandom world where invisible barriers between “old fans” and “new fans” sometimes exist, Jin sees none of that within ARMY. Instead of hierarchy or a sense of entitlement from earlier supporters, he sees harmony, kindness, and genuine connection. To him, the image of an “Old ARMY” helping a “New ARMY” is the most beautiful symbol of BTS’s success. It is no longer just a story about a music group and its fans, but about how people connect with one another through a shared love.
ARMYs were deeply moved to know that Jin is aware of the inner workings of their fandom. At the same time, receiving praise from their idol has made them even prouder and more determined to continue preserving this meaningful culture:
- Giving freebies whenever there's a concert or bangtan's related event is really an interesting culture. Armys are generous and very creative. My favorite Jin's freebies from another army, oh I will never throw this away. Soooooo cute
- This is me, gotta look out for the Army next to you at concerts. Army are really kind
- I teared up. They know. Jin really loves us. And it's just an all love relationship here. Purple hearts on fire.
- This is making me cry so hard. Oh Jin its so heartwarming that you notice everything
- When I went to PTD Las Vegas I was talking with another Army when I told her it was my first concert and I was waiting for an hour to get a light stick but didn’t. She gave me hers with a cute joon charm and photo cards. I cried I was so happy. she’s a literal angel
- Yess, my lightstick wasn't connecting at PTD LV and the ARMY next to me helped me out
- We’re all in this fan hood together we are besties siblings,family
- You can tell how sincere Jin is, he really is proud of us and I'm so thankful to have found BTS and ARMY when I did
- Even Indonesia army bring candysuga (suga fansite master) home with motorbike cus she can't find any for home after D Day consert in jakarta
- This is what I meant when I refer to Army culture. Genuine Armys will always support fellow genuine Armys.
