Musician Rejects BTS As Idols, Sparks Widespread Reactions

Hyosang Live stirred the pot by saying BTS is no longer seen as idols in Korea.

He went viral after sharing that BTS ranks with Son Heung Min and Bong Joon Ho as historical figures Koreans take pride in.

“In Korea, the impression of BTS is no longer an idol. When they mention the list of people Koreans are proud of, BTS is included alongside Son Heung Min and Bong Joon Ho. They’re more like historical figures from Korea.”
— Hyosang Live

The YouTuber also called out other big names like BLACKPINK and BIGBANG, saying they don’t hit the same status.

“What’s interesting is that even though BLACKPINK is super famous, I’ve never heard anyone say that about them. Actually, mabye a few times. But, sadly, BTS is kind of considered, not even Stray Kids, but only BTS. Not even BIGBANG. BIGBANG doesn’t even get to that level.”
— Hyosang Live

He compared BTS to PSY, highlighting how BTS raised Korea’s rep differently.

“BTS is considered among those who have raised Korea’s international reputation in Korea. PSY, not really. Do you know why? It’s because, although he did sing ‘Gangnam Style’ and put the name Korea out there, the international image he showed to the world was more like a comedian. He’s a musician, but people considered him a one-song meme.”
— Hyosang Live

ARMYs responded fast, standing by BTS as legendary.

“this is the actual fucking reality and everybody out there should just learn to deal with it! this is what it is, no matter how much you hate them or be jealous it just won’t change it. BTS is who everyone is proud of. they are the LIVING LEGENDS, learn to just accept it.”
— @strv_lighhtie on Twitter, Feb 22, 2026

““bts is no longer considered as idol but one of the korea’s prime” man spilled facts and straight to the point im afraid this might summon kpop stans lol”
— @tkllanov on Twitter, Feb 22, 2026