Jung Kook, a member of BTS, is preparing for a significant year in 2026, balancing both his activities with the group and his growth as a solo artist.
Before those plans unfold, Jung Kook is connecting with fans through a cover story interview in Rolling Stone UK, in which he discusses prioritizing his well-being, growing up in the spotlight, and hints at new music. In a preview of the interview, the K-pop singer explains his commitment to change in both his personal life and career.
“I want to be an artist who doesn’t get dragged by the flow, but creates the flow,” Jung Kook told the publication. “I don’t want to be confined — I want to be an artist without limits.”
Jung Kook advanced his solo career with “Seven,” his hit single featuring Latto, released in 2023. The track debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, making him the second BTS member to top the chart.
“Everything felt like a hassle, [then] ‘Seven’ made me want to get back to it,” he said, adding that the positive response from BTS’s fan base, known as ARMY, gave him “even more confidence.”
Jung Kook last released solo music more than a year ago, dropping “Never Let Go” in the summer of 2024. After his discharge from the South Korean military in June, he plans to release an album and join his bandmates on a world tour next year. He also said he is focused on his solo work.
“This is a time where I can evaluate whether I can take another leap forward,” Jung Kook told Rolling Stone UK. “Rather than doing the same kind of performances or similar songs repeatedly, I’m trying new things and continuing to evolve so I can show different sides of myself.”
