Summary: BTS, the first K-pop group to conquer the US Billboard 'Hot 100' singles chart and the 'Billboard 200' albums chart, have a glittering record. With awards from American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, and exclusive performances at the Grammy Awards, they have swept major Korean music awards and have been honored with the Hwagwan Order of Cultural Merit. Yet, these impressive achievements represent only a part of what the seven-member group has accomplished since their debut on June 13, 2013. Their remarkable journey in the past decade has been incredible.

Reporter Go Seung-ah: This year, BTS is celebrating their 10th anniversary. Since their formation in 2013 around leader RM, the seven members - Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook - have each brought their unique synergy to their roles, made possible by their individual charms.

Leader RM, born Kim Nam-joon in 1994, started as an underground hip-hop artist and was introduced to then Big Hit Entertainment (now Big Hit Music) through rapper Sleepy. Initially known as Rap Monster, he garnered attention for his intellectual side in the variety show 'Problematic Men'. In 2017, he changed his stage name to RM, believing it to align more with the music he aspired to make. Apart from his role as a producer for the group, RM is known for his eloquence and English proficiency, playing a crucial role as the group's spiritual pillar. His charisma shines on the international stage, helping to shape BTS's unique philosophy.

As the eldest member, Jin, born Kim Seok-jin in 1992, was scouted by Big Hit while studying Film and Arts at Konkuk University. Serving as a sub-vocalist, he showcases not only his steady vocals but also participates in composing solo tracks. Known as the group's official visual member, he earned the nickname 'Car Door Guy' at the 2015 Melon Music Awards. Jin was the first among the members to enlist for mandatory military service, entering the army as an active duty soldier in December 2022.

Born in 1993, Suga (Min Yoongi) joined Big Hit through the 'Hit It Audition', transitioning from a producer to an idol and serving as the group's lead rapper. His alternate stage name 'Agust D' symbolizes his hometown Daegu. As Agust D, he has released solo mixtapes and albums, building his musical world. This year, he is also on a solo tour and has collaborated with artists like IU and Psy.

J-Hope, born Jung Ho-seok in 1994, was a dancer in his hometown Gwangju before joining Big Hit. Utilizing his skills, he serves as the group's main dancer and also as a sub-rapper after learning to rap post-joining. His 2018 mixtape unveiled his solo talent, and he has worked on several tracks for group albums. Known as the mood-maker of the team, he constantly spreads positive energy by introducing himself as "I'm your hope."

Jimin, originally from Busan and famous for entering Busan High School of Arts as the top student in dance, joined the team through an audition. Born in 1995, he was the last of the members to join as a trainee, also having the shortest training period. Jimin is the lead vocalist and main dancer, boasting charisma on stage that contrasts with his cute smile. He has released self-composed songs as non-album singles, and in March of this year, he reached the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in the US with his first solo album - a first for a K-pop solo artist.

V, who is the same age as Jimin, also joined Big Hit Entertainment through an audition and was the last of the members to be revealed. He contributes his husky baritone voice as a sub-vocalist, adding a distinct touch to BTS's songs. He also utilizes his natural talents to deliver impressive dance performances and even owns a dance video that has achieved 100 million views. V is also the member who created 'I Purple You,' a phrase often used in BTS's greetings. 'I Purple You' is interpreted as 'Let's trust and love each other for a long time, like the color purple, the last color of the rainbow,' which has been in use since it was first spoken at a fan meeting in 2016.

As the youngest in the team, born in 1997, Jungkook (Jeon Jeong-guk) began training at Big Hit Entertainment after being eliminated from Mnet's 'Superstar K3'. He received casting offers from numerous agencies at the time of his elimination but famously chose Big Hit after seeing RM practicing. As the main vocalist of the group, he is dubbed the 'Golden Maknae' for his ability to captivate the stage with his intense dance routines and stable live performances, even during strenuous choreography. In 2022, he sang 'Dreamers', the theme song for the Qatar World Cup, and mesmerized the world with his performance at the opening ceremony.

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