BTS’s Jungkook was on the verge of making history as the first Asian solo artist to perform at the Super Bowl Halftime Show. Sadly, he had to turn down the opportunity
For many musicians, receiving an invitation to the Super Bowl is one of the biggest honors. This event transcends mere sports; it represents a significant cultural phenomenon in the United States.
Participating in the Super Bowl not only offers a prime chance for artists to gain a wider audience but also plays a crucial role in establishing their presence in the US entertainment market, a cornerstone of pop culture.
According to The New Yorker Magazine, Usher had invited Jungkook to perform ‘Standing Next To You’ during the 2024 Super Bowl halftime show, but Jungkook had to refuse because of his mandatory military service. pic.twitter.com/OFCpdTRDgE
— Pop Base (@PopBase) October 7, 2024
Consequently, when the news broke that Jungkook was close to setting a milestone by becoming the first K-pop artist to participate in the Super Bowl, fans known as ARMYs experienced a mix of feelings, balancing regret with pride for their idol.
A recent feature in The New Yorker included a conversation with HYBE’s Chairman Bang Si Hyuk, who discussed current groups under the label, like BTS and KATSEYE.
During this conversation, the media highlighted:
“…Usher, who collaborated with Jungkook on a remix of ‘Standing Next to You,’ invited him to join him at the Super Bowl.”
Unfortunately, Jungkook was unable to accept the invitation since the Super Bowl Halftime Show is set for February 2024, while he needs to take a break to fulfill his military service requirements starting in December 2023.
To the “armys” who resent his success and lack support due to fears that his solo achievements might fracture the group, know this: Jungkook has sacrificed greatly for the unity of BTS. You should appreciate him more. https://t.co/gR283Dbops
— kookiekrumbs (@umbrellaella23) October 7, 2024
https://t.co/r2ObpwQA24
— v⁷ (@itsajooniverse) October 7, 2024
If South Korea had just excused these individuals from military service, the country would have reaped significant financial benefits in tourism and beyond. They have contributed immensely already. https://t.co/XQWDRgoiOl
— kerry Washiongton Teeth. (@KerryZika) October 7, 2024
Initially, Jungkook was set to perform alongside Usher in a rendition of the hit single “Standing Next to You.”The duo had already released a remix on December 1st of the previous year, which climbed to the second position on the Billboard 200 chart.
At just 27 years old, Jungkook faces mandatory military enlistment under the so-called “BTS law,”which permits him to defer this obligation until he turns 30. Had he chosen to postpone for three more years, he might have been able to participate in the Super Bowl event.
This situation resonates deeply with ARMYs, who feel a wave of emotion as they recognize that Jungkook has placed his solo ambitions in the US on hold to serve with his fellow BTS members, aiming to minimize their hiatus.
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