Jungkook’s late-night livestream in the early morning of the 26th continues to dominate online discussions. It marked the first time he openly admitted to smoking, saying, "I used to smoke a lot, but I’ve worked really hard to stop." Mentioning his agency, Big Hit Music, he added, "The moment I talk about this, the company is going to flip out."
He further vented, "I don't even know what I’m saying. It’s frustrating and annoying. I’m going to live the way I want. I don’t care about the company," and stated, "I wanted to be honest with ARMY. If it weren't for the company, I would have told you everything." During the broadcast, he was also seen making a middle-finger gesture and using profanity. When the swear words came up, Jungkook clarified, "I didn't do that to the fans. I only give love to fans."
Some viewers argued that he was still trying to “maintain the boundaries of an idol” by making it clear he was not insulting fans. On the other hand, another wave of opinions expressed disappointment: "Would he have acted like this back when he was desperate to manage his fandom?", "If you want to say whatever you want, you shouldn't be an idol", "A profession that thrives on fantasy requires a matching attitude", "Would he have done this during his rookie days?", and “When did he change this much?”
Some кσяєαn fans even announced that they were “leaving the fandom.” The administrator of a big fanpage declared they would shut it down for personal reasons after many years of dedication. There were also individuals claiming to be “former fans” who turned against him, posting extreme content such as threats, tearing up photos, or even burning Jungkook and BTS-related merchandise.
The situation reminded many fans of soмєтнing Jungkook once said when asked how he would feel if fans left the fandom. His message from that time has once again gone viral within the fandom.
Specifically, Jungkook said: "You want to try other groups? Haha it's your freedom! But I don't care too much about that...I just work hard for those cheering me on! so I don't care too much about that~ Even like when people write hate comments I'm grateful because that means they have that time for me~ I'm thankful to them".
"But of course I don't like them. I can not like them too right! Of course I don't like the people who write bad about me. just for those who cheer me on. I'm just going to work and live hard for you all! I am confident that I will not change like that. until my knees give up and my voice doesn't come out, until what I can do, and I receive so much strength from you guys so I will live hard! Anyway I'm always grateful!", he expressed.
On another occasion, he emphasized: “There are some of you who may have already left. But I still want to thank you all no matter when you used to love us. I just wanted to say thank you for sharing all those moments with us.”
He added: “I’ll always stay here. Whenever ARMY wants to see me, you can come here anytime. Also when you have to leave or when you want to leave, you can leave at any time. Whenever you want. But as long as you remember this, I will always stay here”.
In the world of K-pop, where the line between “ownership” and “support” is often blurred, Jungkook’s attitude is striking in its clarity and generosity. He does not beg for loyalty, nor does he attempt to paint a flawless image to retain anyone. Instead, Jungkook chooses to appreciate even those who have left, viewing the years they shared as invaluable memories.
In particular, the way he faces malicious comments or fans “leaving” with a smile and a word of thanks demonstrates remarkable maturity. He understands that his worth does not lie in pleasing everyone, but in pouring his heart into those who genuinely value him.
At this point, ARMYs have also pointed out a paradox within K-pop fandom culture: fans often say they want a “genuine, unfiltered side,” yet the moment that honesty becomes uncomfortable, they demand “idol-like conduct” and strict “image management.” Ultimately, the deeper the affection, the higher the expectations—and the wider the gap of disappointment.
Jungkook’s recent livestream, together with his past messages, serves as a reminder that truly supporting someone means accepting even their most ordinary, human sides. Many ARMYs believe that situations like this help cleanse the fandom of toxic individuals, making them feel relieved rather than angry.
Meanwhile, Jungkook’s old words continue to circulate widely as a reminder to devoted fans. Many have responded with comments such as: "REAL ARMYS ARE ALWAYS HERE JUNGKOOK", "We will love you forever. I'll support anything that makes you happy because you deserve all the happiness in the world", "That makes me love him even more. Jungkook, I am grateful I have you ", "Haters cannot relate, I purple you Jungkook", "I’m not leaving! I won’t leave! Where would I go", "Antis need to leave him alone and stop hating on him if they don’t know anything about his personality",...
