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BTS member Jin shared about his biggest dream, revealing some truths about songs from ARIRANG in an interview that came out on Wednesday, April 15. These included his journey into solo rock music, his love for Coldplay, and the group’s upcoming reunion for their new album ARIRANG and a world tour. The talk also gave a better look at Jin’s life as the oldest member of the very popular K-pop group, showing both his weaknesses and his strength. Jin candidly talked about all to Rolling Stone’s journalist Brian Hiatt.

Jin On Facing the Physical Demands of Idol Life

Opening up about the physical demands of being an idol, Jin reflected on how age has begun to affect him. “I guess it’s always physically taxing,” Jin said when asked what it’s like being an idol at 33-year-old (the singer is 35 in the traditional South Korean aging system). “While it’s true that the same moves can feel a bit more difficult now, that’s just my burden to bear.” His words highlighted the quiet resilience behind the polished performances fans see on stage.

Despite these challenges, Jin emphasised that he continues to push himself harder to maintain peak performance levels for fans. He shared that he puts in extra effort behind the scenes, driven by a strong sense of responsibility. In one of the more vulnerable moments of the interview, he also spoke honestly about how he compares himself to the other members of BTS when it comes to performance skills.

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Jin’s Honest Comparisons and Self-Motivation

“To be honest, I’m aware that I don’t move quite as well as the other members,” Jin admitted. However, instead of letting that discourage him, he uses it as motivation to improve. “So I’ve always come early to practice, or stayed late to catch up.” His dedication reflects the work ethic that has helped BTS maintain their global success over the years.

At the same time, Jin didn’t shy away from bringing in his signature humour. While acknowledging his perceived shortcomings in performance, he pointed out one area where he feels confident. “I do think I’m more good-looking than the other members,” Jin said jokingly, while also recognising that all the members are widely considered handsome. “I should have at least one thing I’m best at in the group.” The remark added a lighthearted touch to an otherwise introspective conversation.

Jin On Limited Role in ARIRANG’s Creation

Jin also addressed his role in the creation of BTS’s new album ARIRANG, revealing that he did not participate in writing any of the songs. “I didn’t write any of the songs because I was still on my solo tour at the time,” he explained. Last summer, Jin embarked on his first-ever solo tour, the #RUNSEOKJIN_EP.TOUR, which accompanied his Billboard 200 No. 3 album Echo. The timing of the album’s production meant that by the time he returned, most of the work had already been completed.

He elaborated on the situation, saying that the writing and recording sessions for ARIRANG took place after his tour had already begun. By the time he made it back to the studio, the creative process was largely finished. “When I arrived at the studio, there were a 100-something songs already made,” Jin revealed, underscoring the scale of preparation that had gone into the album.

Even so, Jin contributed in his own way during the final stages. Over the course of seven to ten days, he recorded test versions of selected tracks, helping finalise the album. Reflecting on the process, he admitted, “I do think it would have been better,” suggesting he would have liked to be more involved creatively. However, he was quick to acknowledge the efforts of his bandmates, adding, “But the other members did a beautiful job.”

Ultimately, Jin expressed nothing but excitement about reuniting with BTS and returning to the stage together. For him, the opportunity to perform as a group again means everything. “My biggest dream has been to go on tour with BTS,” he said when asked about his aspirations for the next five years. “And meet as many fans as I can, from all over the world.”