There is an unchanging rule in the lifecycle of K-pop idols: the golden era of their careers is often remarkably short. That is why many idols debut at a very young age—around 14 or 15 years old, or even younger—and work relentlessly after debut in order to maintain their popularity before they become "too old" in the eyes of the industry. Fierce competition, rapidly changing trends, and the short lifespan of music releases also make it difficult for many groups to stay at the top for an extended period of time.

BTS is one of the very few exceptions to this rule. Not only have they remained together with their original lineup intact, but they have also sustained their popularity for over 13 years, continuously reaching new heights and expanding their global influence. Even while celebrating their 13th debut anniversary, BTS jokingly compared themselves to having "just graduated elementary school," implying that their journey has only just begun and that they still have many more years ahead as a group. For that reason, the topic of "retirement" has always seemed far too premature!

However, one undeniable reality is that time waits for no one. As people grow older, certain things inevitably become more difficult—one obvious example being performing high-intensity choreography for hours during concerts. That is precisely why BTS wasted no time returning with a new album and a world tour immediately after completing their military service, eager to reunite with fans and continue their musical journey while they are still able to perform at their fullest.

Interestingly, whenever the subject of "retirement" comes up, the members never shy away from it. Instead, they speak about it openly, even revealing that they have already discussed long-term plans for BTS's future!

Most recently, during a livestream following the Madrid concert, V casually shared how he imagines BTS when they reach their 60s: "I was talking with Jungkook about what to do if we were a band. Firstly Yoongi hyung plays guitar, me and Jungkookie and Jin hyung play piano, Hobi hyung drums… If we try hard, we can be a super band."

Meanwhile, in a magazine interview not long ago, j-hope also spoke about these conversations. According to MK Sports, he explained that discussions such as, "How long can we keep dancing?" and "Let's do a band in our 60s" naturally emerged as the members began seriously thinking about how they could continue making music as they grow older. Those conversations reflect their deep desire for BTS to continue existing long after their years of peak physical performance.

The idea of forming a band was so serious that each member even began choosing an instrument they could start learning now. “Bαѕѕ would be RM, guitar would be Yoongi, and keyboard would be Jungkook,” j-hope said as an example. As for himself, he shared that he would play the drums because he has always loved the instrument, partly inspired by his father, who was a talented drummer during his university years.

On the other hand, during one of his previous solo concerts, SUGA also sincerely shared his own vision for the future while talking with fans: "I envision myself performing until my 60s". In response to fans chanting, Please grace the stage till your final moments," he jokingly said: "Let me rest a little bit before I ∂ιє though. I don't think I'll be able to even hold a mic at that age!"

SUGA's remarks reminded many fans of a statement RM once made in an interview, where he said that BTS would continue performing until they became fathers—or even grandfathers: “This is us talking because we want to do this for a long time. We pαѕѕed the so-called seven-year limits… BTS stands for Bangtan Boys, and we envision ourselves becoming Bangtan Papas or even Bangtan Grandpas. Maybe 20 or 30 years later. That’s what we want. BTP let’s go!” 

As BTS themselves shared both their short-term and long-term plans, fans wholeheartedly agreed and could not be more satisfied. Many even joked that by the time BTS are in their 50s or 60s, they themselves would be struggling to attend concerts on trembling legs, or might not even be able to see their idols clearly due to presbyopia:

- I hope they still performed at 60 too, at the very least it might help to stop the rampant ageism that goes on in entertainment.

- You can rest anytime you want but we will always be there to support you

- He said the truth but i think if they hold a concert at 60yrs old, i will be about 50s and it is still good for me to dance with other fellow ARMYs

- Yes and after 60s they will grow old together as dads, live their own happy life with their lovers and we still witness them

- This is the most beautiful moment of my life and i think BTS too

- BTS talking about performing until 60 is both inspiring and terrifying… like pls stay healthy kings

- I’m actually crying this is the cutest future plan ever

- The fact that they’re already thinking long-term instead of chasing short-term hype is why bts will always be different

- Not yoongi saying ‘let me rest before i ∂ιє’. He’s so real for that lmao

- If bts are still touring at 60 then i’ll be there too… even if i need a cane and glαѕѕes