In South кσяєα, variety shows are almost considered a cultural “specialty” and play an important role for most K-pop idols, as they help increase public recognition and attract fan interest. Appearing on variety programs is seen as an almost “mandatory” form of promotion during the early years after a group’s debut or whenever they release a new album or song.

During their debut era (2013–2016), BTS frequently appeared on programs such as Weekly Idol, After School Club, Idol Room, and Star Show 360 to promote their music. However, starting around 2017, BTS began limiting their appearances on external variety shows. Instead, they created and produced their own programs, including Run BTS!, Bon Voyage, and In The Soop.

During the period when the members focused on solo activities, they began appearing more frequently on individual variety programs. However, not all of them chose this path — especially Jungkook!

Throughout the promotions for Golden, he primarily participated in interviews, performed on music shows, and interacted with fans. The only variety program he appeared on was SUGA’s talk show Suchwita, produced by BigHit Music. This made fans quite curious about why he did not rely on traditional PR мєтнods that other idols (or even some BTS members) often use.

In one interaction with fans, Jungkook explained: "Come out on a variety show? But for me, I like doing stages/performances. But interviews I'm scared - no rather than scared I feel awkward. That's how I feel about variety shows too...Variety shows should be fun but I feel like I won't be good at it..!"

He also explained why Suchwita was the only show he agreed to appear on: “I don’t know if I’ll ever think about doing that! The only reason I did Suchwita was because a member was the one hosting it, so I felt more comfortable. Still, I might think about it in the future!”

At this point, fans recalled Jungkook’s less-than-pleasant experiences with variety shows in the past.

In 2016, Jungkook appeared alone on the program Flower Crew to celebrate his 20th birthday. Out of kindness, he bought hamburgers for the cast and staff, but received disrespect from Jo Se Ho, who commented, “I think this is leftover food.” The remaining cast members then refused to eat Jungkook’s hamburgers, leaving him visibly confused and hurt.

At that time, Jungkook and BTS were still rookies from a relatively small company, and they were often overlooked on variety shows that featured many idols. ARMYs believe that these early negative experiences may have made Jungkook more cautious and hesitant about returning to such programs.

In addition, variety shows typically require extensive interaction with other celebrities, but Jungkook is relatively introverted and shy around strangers, which makes it difficult for him to fully enjoy the experience. Instead, he feels far more comfortable appearing on a program hosted by a BTS member, such as Suchwita, or spending hours chatting directly with ARMY — soмєтнing that never seems to be enough for him.

Notably, in another livestream, Jungkook also revealed a bigger goal of meeting fans through a solo concert — soмєтнing he is currently postponing for various reasons. Jungkook expressed: “Of course, solo concert has to happen. But I’m not sure when I’ll be able to. I wanted to do it so badly. But the timing… there just wasn’t anything that worked out.”

j-hope then teased, “JK, should we come as guest performers?” The idea excited the youngest member, who exclaimed, “You have to!” while pointing at Jin. Jin, slightly embarrαѕѕed, asked, “Do I have to come (as a guest) too?” but Jungkook firmly replied, “Hyung should come and sing.” Furthermore, j-hope didn’t let Jungkook’s idea fade and expanded on it with a plan: “I should do an SNTY cover,” and Jungkook fully supported the idea, adding, “I’d love it. I’ll cover Killin’ it girl.” Golden Maknae also suggested Jin to come and perform “Super Tuna” too. 

Jungkook seems to already have his own ideas for his solo concert. Fans clearly understand how pαѕѕionate he is about performing on stage. Especially since some BTS members have held solo tours across multiple countries to meet ARMYs around the world, Jungkook surely also wishes to do the same and introduce his solo album to fans in person.

But as he said, now is not the right time, as he and the members are prioritizing group activities. The current timing may not be suitable, but that does not mean it will never happen. Fans believe that in the future — most likely after BTS completes their one-year ARIRANG world tour — the remaining members, including Jungkook, will have time to consider holding their own solo concerts.

Whatever happens, fans continue to support Jungkook’s decisions, as well as those of the other members. They encourage him to choose what truly makes him feel comfortable and happy: "Do whatever you like Jungkook", "I hope he does whatever makes him comfortable! we enjoy everything!!", "Do whatever you want and what makes you happy. We will support you Jungkook", "I hope you only do the things you feel most comfortable with", "I agree.. He's a born performer and does great in stages",...