J-Hope Looks Back on BTS’s Challenges and Anticipates Full-Group Comeback

J-Hope of BTS opened up about some of the toughest moments the group faced during their rise and spoke honestly about the challenges they’re encountering as they prepare for their long-anticipated reunion.

During a July 5 appearance on the YouTube web variety show Pinggyego, hosted by Yoo Jae Suk and Jo Se Ho, J-Hope reflected on the intense pressure BTS experienced around 2018. At that time, the group was receiving massive global attention, but the overwhelming spotlight took a toll on their mental health.

"Around 2018, BTS was receiving so much love that I started wondering if we truly deserved all that attention,"
J-Hope

"People’s eyes on us became a little scary. Normally, getting a reaction is something to be grateful for, but it started feeling overwhelming. Even the members went through a bit of a slump."
J-Hope

Despite those struggles, J-Hope emphasized how the seven members managed to pull through together. Embracing their core message, “Love Yourself,” wasn’t just a mantra for fans — it became a vital source of strength for the group.

"We got through it by reminding ourselves of our message—‘Love Yourself.’ That idea wasn’t just for others; it applied to us too. And as we embraced it, we found real strength."
J-Hope

Writing music with meaningful messages also turned into a personal healing journey for the members.

"We were delivering a message, but it was also something we needed to hear. Writing songs like that helped us learn and grow emotionally."
J-Hope

The chat also touched on the current status of BTS, especially as all members have now completed their mandatory military service — a major milestone that’s paving the way for their reunion.

"Now that all the members have completed their military service, we’re preparing to resume team activities. But it’s been such a long time—we haven’t been together as seven in nearly three or four years."
J-Hope

Their last full-group release was the 2022 track ‘Yet to Come,’ after which members gradually began enlisting. J-Hope was discharged in October 2023 after serving as an assistant instructor with the 36th Infantry Division in Gangwon-do. He was the second to finish his military duty following Jin. Since then, RM, V, Jimin, Jungkook, and most recently Suga, who wrapped up his alternative service in June 2025, have rejoined civilian life.

With so much time apart, J-Hope shared that coordinating their comeback is a careful process.

"I’m constantly thinking about how to best coordinate things with the members as we reunite. It’s been so long, so I want to do it right."
J-Hope

Yoo Jae Suk expressed his excitement and support for the group’s future plans.

"I have no doubt it’s going to be incredible. I definitely want to attend the next BTS concert."
Yoo Jae Suk

"I’ll make sure to invite you."
J-Hope

On the solo front, Jo Se Ho also mentioned his anticipation for J-Hope’s upcoming performance at Lollapalooza, noting it will be a big moment for him as a headliner.

"I’m really looking forward to your performance at Lollapalooza too. It’ll be exciting to see you as a headliner."
Jo Se Ho

Back in early 2025, BTS announced during a livestream that they’re targeting a full-group comeback in spring 2026. This reunion will mark their first official activity together as seven members since the military service period began. Fans are already buzzing with excitement to see what’s next for the group as they get ready to take the stage once again.