- By Srishti Pandey
- Fri, 28 Feb 2025 10:49 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
"Will you stay?" Jungkook asks as he begins BTS' last OT7 song, Take Two, released during FESTA 2023. Two years later, the question still lingers in ARMYs' minds as they discover new and old Kpop talents. Kpop is a dynamic and ever-evolving genre of music and the industry can be equally challenging.
The members of BTS had to go their separate ways to focus on solo albums as they began their mandatory military service, starting with Jin in December 2022. Jin and Jhope were discharged in 2024 and now ARMYs are eagerly awaiting the moment when the remaining members will complete their service and return to Boraland, where fans are hoping for new music and OT7 interactions.
In 2022, BTS announced their temporary hiatus from major group activities, allowing the members to concentrate on solo music and concerts while fulfilling military obligations. Since then, ARMYs have been longing for OT7 content, hoping for an end to this drought. Fans are excited to hear military stories and learn what the future holds for the group musically, particularly with the possibility of a world tour—the biggest Kpop tour the group is expected to undertake.
Here are songs old and new for you to listen to as you think about BTS' impact on your life -
Take Two
Released in June 2023 as part of BTS’s 10th-anniversary celebrations, Take Two is a heartfelt song dedicated to ARMY. The title suggests a continuation or second chapter, symbolising the journey BTS and their fans have shared and the promise of more to come. With soft instrumentals and emotional lyrics, the song expresses gratitude, love and the longing to stay together despite future uncertainties. BTS members RM and Jhope contributed to its production, making it even more personal.
Magic Shop
Featured on the Love Yourself: Tear album (2018), Magic Shop is an emotional track inspired by the psychological concept of the Magic Shop, where one trades fears for comfort. Produced by Jungkook, the song serves as a musical safe space, reassuring fans that BTS will always be there to support them.
The lyrics express warmth and encouragement, with lines like “So show me, I’ll show you” acting as a call-and-response between BTS and ARMY. The song is known for its touching performances, especially at fan meetings where members often get emotional while singing it.
Musically, Magic Shop blends soft EDM and pop elements, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that enhances its soothing message.
Mikrokosmos
Part of the Map of the Soul: Persona album (2019), Mikrokosmos is a song about the beauty of individuality and human connection. The title, derived from Greek, means "small universe," reflecting how each person is a shining light in the vast world.
The lyrics celebrate the uniqueness of every individual, comparing them to stars that brighten the night. Lines like “You got me, I got you” reinforce the idea of mutual support and appreciation.
The song became a fan favourite, often performed as the grand finale at concerts, with thousands of light sticks creating a mesmerizing starry effect in the stadium. Its uplifting melody and message make it one of BTS’s most inspiring songs.
Epilogue: Young Forever
Released in 2016 as part of The Most Beautiful Moment in Life: Young Forever album, this song serves as a reflective and emotional conclusion to BTS’s HYYH (Hwa Yang Yeon Hwa) era.
The lyrics capture the fears and struggles of youth while expressing the desire to hold onto precious moments forever. Lines like “Even if there are wounds, I will smile” depict resilience and a longing to cherish the journey despite hardships.
With its soft, melancholic melody and a build-up that feels almost anthemic, Young Forever resonates deeply with both BTS and ARMY, often bringing tears during live performances. It symbolizes growth, nostalgia and the bittersweet nature of time passing.
We Are Bulletproof
BTS has multiple songs under the We Are Bulletproof series, starting from their pre-debut days. The most well-known versions include:
We Are Bulletproof Pt. 1 (pre-debut): A raw and intense track showcasing BTS’s determination before their official debut.
We Are Bulletproof Pt. 2 (2013): Released on 2 Cool 4 Skool, this song highlights their struggles and resilience as rookies in the Kpop industry.
We Are Bulletproof: The Eternal (2020): From Map of the Soul: 7, this version is more sentimental, serving as a tribute to their journey and ARMY’s unwavering support.
Born Singer
Originally released in 2013 as an adaptation of J. Cole’s Born Sinner, this song holds immense sentimental value. It was an unofficial release at first, but BTS included it in their 2022 Proof album, making it an official part of their discography.
The lyrics narrate BTS’s struggles, dreams, and gratitude, capturing their emotions as young artists who had just debuted. Lines like “I’m a born singer, a little late to confess” reveal their hardships and passion for music.
With a simple yet powerful arrangement, Born Singer remains one of the most cherished songs among fans, symbolizing BTS’s beginnings and their relentless journey to success.
Each of these BTS songs carries deep emotional meaning, connecting the group with ARMY on a personal level. Whether through comfort, encouragement or nostalgia, these tracks remain an integral part of BTS’s legacy as we count the days until their reunion.
