Any fan probably knows by heart the story of BTS — from rookies under a small agency to world-clαѕѕ K-pop superstars who have built the No.1 K-pop empire of today. Not only fans, but anyone who talks about BTS will immediately recall their extraordinary journey.

It wasn’t just about overcoming the financial struggles of their company or the fierce elimination system of the industry. Before they found the spotlight, the BTS members had to endure a “mental boot camp” filled with disdain and even humiliation from people within the industry, along with heavy cyberвυℓℓуing from individuals on social media.

Of course, with the determination and resilience of seven young men, none of that was enough to bring them down. The success, fame, and status that BTS hold today are the sweetest response to those who once looked down on them — so much so that many have publicly admitted their regret.

One typical example is South кσяєαn lawmaker Na Kyung Won from the Liberty кσяєα Party. During a speech at a university filled with young people, she mentioned BTS and what she called “her unfortunate incident.”

She shared that she had once organized an event for people with disabilities, which BTS attended. Figure skating queen Kim Yuna was also present at the event.

Back in 2013–2014, Kim Yuna was considered one of the most respected and beloved figures in South кσяєα — not only in sports but also in popular culture. Her 2010 Olympic gold medal, 2014 Olympic silver medal, and World Championship titles had made her a national icon and a source of pride for the entire country.

By contrast, Na admitted that at that time, she only saw BTS as newly debuted K-pop idols with no remarkable achievements or titles. That’s why Kim Yuna drew all the attention at the event, and even Na herself only took photos with the skating queen — not with the young idols. Looking back, she regretted what she now considers a thoughtless act.

Na Kyung Won confessed: “I’m a fan of BTS. Back when BTS wasn’t well-known, they attended an event that I held for the disabled. At the time, I only took photos with Yuna Kim, who was very famous and didn’t take any photos with BTS, who was not famous at the time. I really regret it now.”

She then affirmed that BTS has now become a symbol representing South кσяєαn youth and urged young people by saying: “You probably remember the message BTS gave at the UN αѕѕembly, which was, love yourself. Everyone, remember to love yourselves. That’s what you can do for the better future of кσяєα.“

Although Na’s past behavior was disappointing, fans still praised her for having the courage to admit her mistake. Fans take pride in the fact that BTS have now made those who once looked down on them pay the price — even making them bow in return.

Aside from Na, comedians Heo Kyung Hwan, Jo Se Ho, and Park Myung Soo — who once ignored BTS’s greetings and showed dismissive or disrespectful attitudes toward the members before their fame — have each publicly expressed regret after meeting BTS again as top K-pop superstars.

Rapper B-Free is another example, having had to bow his head and admit that mocking BTS — especially SUGA — in the past was wrong. Worse still, while BTS’s career skyrocketed, his own career faded into oblivion, beyond recovery.

Fans point out that respect and courtesy are the basic standards in human interaction — and that no one should be so quick to judge others under any circumstances:

- The price to pay for looking down on others too soon

- That's right, when my boys weren't famous, there were a lot of people like her

- Seeing people who once ignored them now regret it feels so satisfying. The boys never needed to talk back, their success spoke louder than any words.

- She talks like she's a fan of BTS nowBTS official merch

- Such an embarrαѕѕing story that can also be brought into a speech

- She's a prime example of people who used to look down on BTS

- Our boys are good at making other people feel ashamed of their old actions

- It’s crazy how people used to look down on them, and now they’re literally global icons. BTS didn’t just prove themselves — they changed the whole K-pop game. So proud to stan them. 

- At least, she admits her mistake publicly. This just shows how hard BTS had to fιgнт against prejudice from day one. They earned everything with pure talent and hard work.

- BTS’s story will always be my biggest motivation. No matter how many people doubt you, if you stay humble and keep working, the world will eventually recognize your worth