photo: hanyonker

SEOUL

Six years ago, BTS got its start, heading down a historic path that would lead seven young men from South Korea to become one of the most important and prominent musical artists of a generation. Six years of pure artistry, joy, inspiration, hard work and pride is here as of today.

Ever since then every June since then, RM, Suga, J-Hope, Jin, Jimin, V and Jungkook have held annual celebrations known as Festa, during which they share content, release music and hold events with their fans. This year’s Festa has already seen a whole range of content, including a brand-new solo song from Jin, and on Wednesday (June 12), they celebrated the anniversary with a special clip known as “Bangtan Attic.”

In the nearly hour-long video, which takes its name from the first half of BTS’ Korean name Bangtan Sonyeondan, the seven men gather and spend time discussing their childhoods, careers and more. Sentimental moments abound as they reflect on their lives, ranging from discussing if they believed in Santa Clause when they were younger to how they differ as individuals from their stage personas. The relaxed environment feels homey and immensely welcoming as if BTS opened up their private retreat up to the public to take part in. 

BTS’ members also shared a bit of content on social media to celebrate the occasion, including a short behind-the-scenes video from Jimin that he described as a small gift to ARMY. In it, the members of BTS are seen preparing and performing during their Love Yourself: Speak Yourself tour. It ends with a message of thanks to fans, and the promise "I'll never forget it."

BTS also has a pair of Muster concerts this week in Busan followed by another pair in Seoul next weekend to meet with South Korean fans and celebrate their anniversary together.

The anniversary celebration and releases resulted in several hashtags trending worldwide on Twitter, including “6 Years with our Home BTS,” a reference to the fan-dedicated song “Home” from BTS’ most recent album, Billboard 200 chart-topping Map of the Soul: Persona.

According to sources, A.R.M.Y‘s around the world will be seen wearing or carrying things that are in color ‘Purple’ which reflects affection towards the boys in the form of ‘I purple you’ which refers to love.