Jung Kook of BTS said the group's seven members [1] are pursuing different paths and working at their own paces following their hiatus.
The comments provide a rare glimpse into the internal dynamics of one of the world's most successful musical acts as they navigate the transition from a collective unit to individual artists.
Speaking with Rolling Stone senior writer Brian Hiatt in Seoul during February 2026 [2], Jung Kook said how the members' diverse backgrounds influence their current trajectories. The interview is part of an eight-part [3] cover-story package for the May 2026 issue of Rolling Stone [2].
"All of the members come from very different backgrounds," Jung Kook said. "And ever since we met, everyone is moving at their own speed, taking things at their own tempo."
While the singer expressed satisfaction with his released solo album, he noted he is still developing his skills as a writer. "I’m not sure I’m ready for personal songwriting yet, but I’m excited about the solo album I’ve released," Jung Kook said.
The conversation also touched upon the group's upcoming project for Netflix titled "BTS: The Return". The documentary aims to chronicle the evolution of the members both as individuals, and as a cohesive group, during and after their time away from the spotlight.
Brian Hiatt said the documentary will show how the members have grown individually and as a group after the hiatus.
“Everyone is moving at their own speed, taking things at their own tempo.”
This shift toward individual 'tempos' suggests that BTS is moving away from the rigid synchronization that defined their early global rise. By prioritizing individual growth and acknowledging different speeds of professional development, the group is establishing a sustainable model for their eventual reunion that allows for solo artistic maturity without sacrificing the group's collective identity.
