BTS bids farewell to fans as it announces hiatus

During the hiatus, all BTS members are expected to release solo projects. Photo: Handout

K-pop sensation BTS announced today (June 14) that it is going on a hiatus.

The announcement came at the band's annual Festa dinner where the members celebrate the anniversary of its inception.

The celebration was held at the house where the seven members – RM, V, Jung-kook, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin and Jin – lived together years ago.

“I always thought that BTS was different from other groups, but the problem with K-pop and the whole idol system is that they don’t give you time to mature. You have to keep producing music and keep doing something,” BTS leader RM said.

He went on to say that although the group has achieved a lot in the past few years, the members needed to grow as artistes individually.

J-Hope added: “I think we should spend some time apart to learn how to be one again. I hope you don’t see this as a negative thing, and see it as a healthy plan. I think BTS will become stronger that way.”

Obviously, it was a difficult decision for the members to make as they always have their fans on their minds.

“We can’t help but think of our fans no matter what, we want to be the kind of artistes that are remembered by our fans.

"I think now we’re starting to think about what kind of artistes we each want to be remembered by our fans,” Jimin said.

All members are expected to release their solo projects. First up is J-Hope who is expected to perform at the upcoming Lollapalooza music festival next month.

BTS, which released its anthology album Proof on June 10, ended the night by asking its fans to wish them the best.

“I promise we will return some day, more mature than now. Till then, we ask for your blessing," Jung-kook said.