It all began with a simple click to apply in the lottery to get one of the only 4,000 tickets available to see Jin of BTS in Korea. I have been to BTS’ concerts, but to this ARMY, the chance to witness Jin’s concert after his discharge from military service was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
I had just come home from my last day of school, a week before BTS’ 11th anniversary, when my mom told my sister and I that she had booked our tickets to Korea. My mom’s a super ARMY. I never knew she could be spontaneous and give her all as a fan until she became ARMY. I wasn’t really surprised that she was ready to fly to Korea despite the uncertainty of whether or not we would actually secure a ticket to see Jin. The anticipation was nerve-wracking, but we held on to hope.
Fast forward to a quiet evening a day before our flight. We were en route to my grandparents’ house near the airport when a notification from Weverse lit up my phone screen—I had won a ticket! Excitement surged through me as the reality sank in—I was going to see Jin again, live and in person.
HYBE building where they put the BTS and ARMY battlecry- Apobangpo, which means _ARMY Forever, Bangtan Forever_.
Jin bus promotion at HYBE
I didn’t mind the long-haul flight from the States to Korea. Touching down at Incheon International Airport and arriving in Seoul, we came upon a city abuzz with festivity. It was not just any ordinary time to be in Korea; it was BTS Festa to celebrate their 11th year anniversary, combined with Jin’s release. The atmosphere at the HYBE building was electric, with fans from around the globe gathering to celebrate.
Banpo Bridge water display with purple lights
Exploring Seoul between events, I made time to see the Banpo Bridge water display turning a vibrant purple, synced perfectly to one of the most heartfelt songs of BTS, Spring Day. It was a breathtaking sight, a reminder of the beauty and tranquility of why I became a fan of BTS music.
Purple ARMY bomb.
Then came the day I had been waiting for—Jin’s concert. The venue pulsed with energy as thousands of ARMYs united in their love for BTS. When Jin took the stage, the cheers became deafening, yet his presence proved calming. His voice filled the gymnasium that turned almost intimate.
But perhaps what struck me most was the camaraderie among fans. Despite language barriers, we exchanged stories, bonded over our shared admiration of BTS, and embraced the magic of being in that moment together.
The author with the bouquet Jin gave to ARMY after his concert
As I reflect on my journey, from entering the lottery to standing among fellow ARMYs in Seoul, I am filled with gratitude. This experience wasn’t just about seeing Jin; it was about connecting with a community that spans across continents, cultures, and languages. It was about celebrating music that transcends borders and brings joy to millions. And for that, I will forever cherish the memories made under the purple Seoul sky.
