BTS took to their YouTube channel to host the annual FESTA dinner party on June 14, 2022.

The boys, RM, Jin, V, J-Hope, Suga, Jimin, and Jungkook, were celebrating their debut's 9th anniversary, reminiscing about their time together and discussing their future. 

The conversation lasted over an hour, and they announced they were taking a break somewhere in between, leaving fans in disbelief. 

An English translation showed one member calling the break a "hiatus," which could sometimes mean "it is over" for other bands. 

However, a representative for the group later disputed that and assured fans the break was not permanent. 

"To be clear, they are not on hiatus but will take time to explore some solo projects and remain active in different formats," said Hybe, the entertainment company that manages BTS. 

BTS Taking a Break to Focus on Solo Projects

As the leader of the septet, RM led the dinner conversation, stating the individual members needed to grow and mature as individuals.

He said while they had achieved a great deal as BTS, he wanted the members to focus on their solo projects so they could mature. 

"I always thought BTS differed from other groups, but the problem with K-pop and the whole idol system is that they don't give you time to mature. So you have to keep producing music and doing something," he said.

Other members agreed, sharing that deciding to take a break was difficult. 

They thought about their fans a lot and wanted to continue to be artists remembered warmly by their fans. 

BTS announcing they are going on a break to focus on solo projects on their festa dinner party

BTS announcing a break to focus on solo projects at their Festa dinner party. (Source: Bangtantv/YouTube)

But after working together for so many years, Jimin noted they were going through a rough patch. 

Suga shared it had been a real struggle for them to develop meaningful lyrics. For the band to go on, he opined, they needed to take a step back and grow independently.

V assured fans they were not disbanded, adding the break would allow them to come back better than ever with synergy like never before. 

Jungkook promised they would reunite someday but, till then, hoped their fans would give them their blessing.

BTS Receives Blessings from Fans

As much as BTS fans known as Army were shocked by the announcement, they were ready to support their favorite K-pop boy band. 

After the announcement, fans took to Twitter with emotional posts. One user tweeter said, "I know it's hard to accept BTS break but their happiness matters the most. They should be given the opportunity to explore the world and find themselves individuals. I promise to support whatever decisions they make. Thank you, BTS." 

Another fan tweeted, "We will always be here. We love you and support you BTS."

Fans can now look forward excitedly to their favorite members' new projects. 

First up on the roster is J-Hope, who will release his solo album in July 2022. He will also be performing solo at the Lollapalooza music festival in Chicago.

Suga also has been working on his solo album. Meanwhile, Jungkook revealed tentative plans for his own album.