In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves through the global ARMY fandom, BTS leader RM disclosed that the world's biggest boy band seriously contemplated disbandment during their extended hiatus. The candid confession came during a live stream on December 6, where RM also provided the long-awaited confirmation that the group is finally working together on a new album after nearly three years apart.
RM's Live Stream Bombshell: The Weight of Disbandment Thoughts
During an intimate live session on a popular video platform, RM, whose real name is Kim Nam-joon, opened up about the immense pressures and internal discussions that have shadowed the group. In a bid to connect more deeply with fans, the rapper and leader spoke frankly about the members' daily lives, their bond, and the challenges they've faced.
One comment, however, left millions of viewers worldwide in a state of disbelief. "I've wondered thousands of times, 'Would it be better for the team to disband or go on hiatus?'" RM shared. He followed this with the crucial reason for their continued unity: "But the reason we're still together is because of the love between the members and the respect we have for our fans."
The Long Road to a New Album and Personal Struggles
RM explained that the prolonged wait for new group music—stretching almost three years since the members began fulfilling their mandatory military service—was not due to a lack of desire. He cited numerous private circumstances and obstacles that hindered their plans, which he could not disclose publicly.
The group's priority, he emphasized, was to deliver content and music that truly reflects their best effort and that fans would genuinely appreciate. This commitment to quality, coupled with external challenges, contributed to the significant delay.
The leader also peeled back the curtain on his personal anguish, revealing the severe toll the preparation process has taken. "I want to perform right away, but preparing for it requires so much, and the personal pressure is huge," RM confessed. He added a deeply concerning detail about his mental state: "Since last month, I haven't even been able to sleep. I was thinking about whether I should get a prescription for sleeping pills."
ARMY's Divided Reaction and the Path Forward
The fan reaction to RM's raw admissions was immediate and intensely emotional across social media platforms. The revelation about past disbandment discussions sparked a heated debate within the ARMY community.
One segment of fans expressed feelings of hurt and betrayal. A representative comment read, "They've been on hiatus for several years now. To talk about disbanding so casually like this is so disrespectful to the fans who waited for them."
Conversely, many fans praised RM's honesty and the group's resilience. Another perspective shared online stated, "Honestly admitting that they've reached the end and knowing when to leave while the applause is still going, would be a great act of courage. Who is really afraid of BTS disbanding? Is it the fans? Or is it BTS themselves?"
Despite the turmoil of the past, the core message from the December 6 live stream is one of continuation and hope. The confirmation that all seven members are actively collaborating on a new BTS album marks the end of a period of uncertainty that began with their military enlistments. It solidifies the group's future, proving that the bonds of brotherhood and dedication to their fans ultimately prevailed over thoughts of separation.
