It doesn't matter if you're a seasoned fan of BTS or if you just recently discovered them, one thing is for sure – the K-pop band's fans proudly call themselves ARMY. In this article, let's delve deeper into the significance of the term ARMY and how BTS came up with this unique name for their loyal supporters.
Back in 2013, shortly after the release of their debut single "2 Cool 4 Skool," BTS officially adopted ARMY as the name for their fandom.
While the acronym ARMY initially stood for "Adorable Representative MC For Youth," its meaning has evolved over time to represent the special bond between the band and their fans. One interpretation of the term is that ARMY serves as the military while BTS acts as the armor, symbolizing the unity and resilience shared between the K-pop group and their devoted followers. In essence, ARMY stands by BTS just like a protective shield.
According to USBTSARMY.com, another layer of significance is added to the name ARMY through BTS' full name, "Bangtan Sonyeondan," which translates to "Bulletproof Boyscouts." This connection further emphasizes the idea of strength and solidarity that characterizes the relationship between the band and their fans.
Interestingly, ARMY wasn't the original choice for BTS' fandom name. During an interview on The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon in July 2021, BTS' RM disclosed that they had considered naming their fandom "The Bells." RM, along with Jin, J-Hope, Suga, Jimin, V, and Jungkook, reminisced about the alternative fan name that almost came to fruition.
RM elaborated on the reasoning behind the potential name "The Bells," explaining, “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 think of the fan name, someone brings up the idea, like, ‘What about the bell thing?’ Everybody rings their bells and [we’re] like, ‘Make some noise!’ and the bells are like ‘ring-a-ling-a-ling.’ But thank God that [it changed], ARMY is so much better.”
As expressed by RM, the shift from "The Bells" to ARMY was a fortuitous decision that resonated more deeply with both BTS and their fans.
The sense of camaraderie and mutual support embodied by the term ARMY has undoubtedly strengthened the bond within the BTS community. Now, as millions of ARMY members worldwide continue to support BTS in all their endeavors, the significance of the fandom name has only grown stronger. Whether it's through streaming their music, attending their concerts, or participating in fan projects, ARMY remains an integral part of BTS' journey to global stardom.
With their unwavering dedication and love for BTS, ARMY members prove time and time again that they are indeed a force to be reckoned with. As BTS continues to break records and push boundaries in the music industry, their ARMY stands by them, ready to conquer new heights together.
In conclusion, the name ARMY not only represents the loyal fanbase of BTS but also encapsulates the spirit of unity, strength, and resilience that defines the special relationship between the band and their supporters.
As BTS and ARMY march forward hand in hand, there's no telling what extraordinary achievements they will accomplish together in the future.
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