Hi there, I am Shortie, and I have been a member of the BTS ARMY since early 2020.

Gratitude is a word that often feels too small when I think about BTS and what they have brought to my life and the lives of millions of other people. It is not just about following a group of artists or enjoying music; it is something much deeper, something more meaningful. Being a BTS Army is not an obsession, it is a unique kind of connection, a profound appreciation and love that sets this fandom apart from any other fandom.

The first time I encountered BTS, I knew they differed from other groups. It wasn’t just the genre-blending music, visually stunning performances, or the captivating choreography; it was their sincerity. Every speech, moment, and lyric they share with fans carries heart and purpose.

Whether it is RM’s eloquence, Jin’s warmth, SUGA’s introspective honesty, J-Hope’s radiance, Jimin’s gentleness, V’s soulfulness, or Jungkook’s passion, each member brings a distinct light, and together they shine in a way that changes lives.

As a BTS ARMY now for 5 years, they have certainly changed mine.

BTS doesn’t just create music; they create healing. Songs such as “Magic Shop,” “Epiphany,” “Answer: Love Myself,” and “Spring Day” are not just tracks I play on a playlist; they are lifelines during moments of anxiety, sadness and doubt. They have taught me the importance of resilience, emotional honesty, and doubt; they have reminded me that it is okay to be imperfect, to be human and to be vulnerable.

The love I feel for BTS is not about idolization; it is about respect for their authenticity, their unwavering dedication to their message and their fans, and their work ethic. These are seven individuals who never allowed fame to compromise their integrity. Despite the unimaginable pressures of the spotlight, they have remained humble, generous and grounded in spirit.

Being part of the ARMY is like being part of a global family, one that spans across countries, cultures, generations, and languages. We don’t just follow BTS; we carry their message into our lives, into how we treat others and how we treat ourselves.

The connection between BTS and ARMY is not transactional; it’s real, emotional, and reciprocal. BTS have always shown love and gratitude toward ARMY, crediting us for their success, even though it is their sincerity and hard work that drew us in.

This fandom is not built on obsession, but it is built on inspiration. I have seen ARMYs raise money for plant forests, fund scholarships, charities, and spread positivity offline and online, inspired by BTS’s example. It is a fandom rooted in compassion and driven by the values BTS live by. There is a powerful beauty in that.

I am endlessly thankful for BTS, not just for the joy they bring to my life, but for the ways they have helped me grow. They have made me feel seen when I felt invisible, made me laugh when I needed it, and cry when I needed to release. They have been a constant comfort and light, even from thousands of miles away.

To BTS: Thank you for your energy, strength, vulnerability, and art. Thank you for reminding all of us that we are enough as we are and that healing is a journey worth taking.

To fellow ARMYs around the world, thank you for creating a space where this love can evolve and thrive.

This is not just a fandom, this is gratitude, this is family. This is BTS and ARMY, forever connected by understanding, love, and a shared journey!