BTS continues to increase their fanbase across the globe. The seven-member K-Pop group even expanded their reach amid the pandemic crisis.
With the release of their first all-English track "Dynamite," the South Korean idols have since achieved new heights and feats. Even more, reports believe that they now have hundreds of millions of fans all over the world.
While their fans, or ARMYs, unite through their support and adoration for the seven K-Pop stars, there are still main differences between the local and international fanbase. Koreaboo reported that Big Hit Label CEO Bang Si Hyuk dived deeper into the matter and explained it all before an audience.
He claimed that "narrative and storytelling" play the most important roles in the concept of BTS. While fans from Japan and the rest from the Western culture loved the idea and understood it fast, Korean fans seemingly rejected it.
The CEO revealed that he received tons of feedback from local ARMYs, suggesting that he should stick to creating "cool songs and dances for the 'pretty oppas.'" This should be, reportedly, done instead of making them "understand useless storylines and discuss different theories."
The publication, then, noted that ARMYs outside South Korea "appreciated the deeper meaning" of the group's tracks. As pointed out, international fans quickly understood The Most Beautiful Moment In Life album, including the extended play movies in contrast to the Korean ARMYs.
Netizens, also, previously released a comparison between BTS' local and international fans. In a blog post for Amino, one fan listed the top differences between the two fan groups.
Among all, language is a factor, which the septet themselves even confirmed. As explained, there is a language barrier when it comes to communication with international ARMYs.
The group's South Korean fanbase immediately understands what the seven K-Pop stars had to think and say on every occasion. They, also, quickly follow every storyline behind the band's reality shows and interviews.
Next to language, Korean and international ARMYs have very different interactions with the members of BTS. On their turf, the local fans almost always have the opportunity to meet and greet the idols, especially during personal fansign events.
Conversely, international fans do not get the same chance when meeting the K-Pop artists in person. Even during concerts and events, fans are likely miles away from the celebrities.
Netizens, later on, agree that personality is another key difference. Based on the observations of many, Korean ARMYs, reportedly, have a "cute personality." On the other hand, international fans would "act like" cute despite being "definitely dorks and extras."
