Almost everyone—from fans to non-fans alike—is familiar with BTS’s “from zero to hero” story. The “zero” here does not refer only to money or fame, but also to mindset and preparedness. To be honest, BTS thirteen years ago, despite having already debuted, were still uncertain about their next steps and the direction of their careers.
Consequently, in 2014—just a year after their debut—BTS's founder, Bang Si-hyuk, decided to send the group to Los Angeles. This journey was rooted in his conviction that to truly conquer the global stage, they first had to immerse themselves in the very birthplace of hip-hop culture, embodying the philosophy: 'To go out into the world, you must first understand it.' And that nearly one-month period turned out to be one of Bang PD’s wisest decisions—one worth an entire career for the group!
That trip to the United States not only allowed BTS to deeply experience αмєяι¢αn culture and the origins of hip-hop music, but also went on to shape their musical mindset and professional philosophy for years to come. Most notably, an encounter with a homeless man—and the heartfelt advice he offered at a time when BTS were still struggling to understand what kind of artists they wanted to become—helped resolve much of their confusion. Even after 12 years, the advice given back then remains a guiding principle throughout the group’s career.
Specifically, one episode of αмєяι¢αn Hustle Life captured the moment when BTS, together with their mentors, took to the streets to distribute food to people in need. When a homeless man received a meal from the members, he responded with a piece of invaluable advice for the young idols.
“Stay true to yourself. Stay true to your heart…Be who you are, you know, don’t be like some other group. Be who you are, right from your soul…right from what’s in you. Why you’re an artist, what made you attracted to art — then be that. Be true to that, that attracted you, and you’ll be good at whatever you do. Never lose who you are. Know who you are. Be true to your heart", he said pαѕѕionately.
Although it was advice from a homeless man, what stood out was how carefully the members listened to it and took it to heart. One of the most frequently cited differences that sets BTS apart is their “honesty,” which is clearly reflected in the confessional nature of their music throughout more than a decade of their career. They do not hesitate to lay bare their darker sides—their fears, doubts, and even their failures—in their lyrics. Yet BTS never leave listeners drowning in despair; they reveal their wounds not to complain, but to begin the process of soothing and healing.
This honesty is also evident in the relationship between BTS and their fans—a bond built on empathy and sincerity. To many, idols and artists resemble “gods” standing above their followers, but the relationship between BTS and ARMY is different: it is a two-way connection, one of companionship, mutual growth, and weathering storms together. BTS do not conceal themselves behind the glittering aura of celebrity. No matter the moment, what fans see is humility, simplicity, and approachability.
Moreover, even while standing at the very top of the global stage, BTS proudly incorporate traditional кσяєαn instruments, hanbok, and their native language into their music. They do not need to “Westernize” themselves to gain recognition; instead, they have conquered the world with an identity deeply rooted in кσяєαn culture.
Looking back at their journey—from teenage boys handing out flyers on the streets of Los Angeles to becoming “21st-century pop icons” performing in front of 200,000 people across four nights at SoFi Stadium—it becomes clear that BTS have never forgotten the words, “Never lose who you are.” Their extraordinary success stands as the strongest possible proof of the homeless man’s message from years ago: when you are true to your heart, you can excel at anything you do.
Beyond BTS, this advice holds value for anyone pursuing a path in the arts. In a world filled with rigid molds and constant pressure to “blend in,” the most sustainable formula for success is staying true to oneself. The pinnacle of art does not lie in perfectly imitating an existing model, but in having the courage to reveal one’s authentic self. When an artist remains steadfast in their original purpose and sincere in preserving the unique rhythm of their own heart, they create soмєтнing truly irreplaceable.
