In his new book, BTS’s Jimin candidly discusses his struggles with physical and mental exhaustion ‘Beyond the Story: 10-Year Record of BTS’
In the recently released book titled “Beyond the Story: 10-Year Record of BTS,” co-authored by South Korean journalist Myeongseok Kang and BTS members Jimin, RM, Jin, J-Hope, Suga, V, and Jungkook, Jimin opens up about his struggles with depression and the sense of loss that accompanied their rise to fame. The 544-page book, translated into English by Anton Hur, Slin Jung, and Clare Richards, offers a chronological account of BTS’ journey through seven chapters. Released on July 9 to coincide with a significant milestone for the band, the book commemorates the naming of their dedicated fan base, ARMY, and celebrates 10 years since the group’s debut in the world of K-pop.
Jimin, renowned for his exceptional vocal talents, has been an integral part of BTS, contributing his singing and songwriting skills. However, amidst his charismatic stage presence and interactions with fans, Jimin’s mental health struggles have remained relatively unknown. Despite gaining a significant following, he has been transparent about his own challenges and has used his social media platforms to promote positive messages, self-love, and mental health awareness, encouraging fans to prioritize their well-being.
In the recently published book, BTS members shared their personal experiences of burnout and the toll it took on their mental health, even during a landmark year in 2018, marked by accomplishments such as their hit song “Fake Love” and the Love Yourself World tour. Jimin, like his bandmates, grappled with the weight of their fame, questioning the true essence of happiness amidst the sacrifices they made.
Within the memoir, Jimin revealed his inner struggles with mental health during early 2018, when physical and mental exhaustion became overwhelming due to the demanding nature of their profession and relentless schedules. These challenges led to unexplained feelings of depression, causing him to isolate himself in a small room and confront his inner turmoil. The added pressure of global scrutiny exacerbated his mental distress, which was not limited to South Korea alone.
A poignant moment highlighted in the book involved Jimin crying with Jungkook during an intimate conversation over drinks. Concerned for Jungkook’s well-being, Jimin approached him and discovered the extent of his struggles. The emotional encounter shed light on the depth of Jungkook’s pain, evoking a strong emotional response from Jimin.
BTS member Jungkook also shared his perspective on the incident, recalling a moment of hopelessness when he resorted to drinking alone and capturing the experience on camera. Jimin’s unexpected presence provided comfort and support, leaving a lasting impression on Jungkook.
It is worth acknowledging that BTS, both as individuals and as a group, have consistently demonstrated their willingness to address personal challenges and experiences. Through their music, interviews, documentaries, and personal statements, they have openly discussed topics such as mental health, self-doubt, and the pressures of fame. Their messages of self-love, resilience, and unity resonate with fans worldwide, emphasizing the importance of seeking help, practising self-care, and supporting one another during difficult times.