For long-time ARMYs, Nicole Kim is no stranger. She is often known as the official interpreter for the group at many international events, behind-the-scenes programs, and especially during the group’s meetings with famous Western artists such as Charlie Puth and Max.
Producer Max himself once described her as an amazing person who played an important role in helping BTS and other artists feel comfortable and engaged. In a letter Megan shared when announcing the collaboration with BTS on the Butter Remix, she also revealed that Nicole Kim was the one who sent the invitation on behalf of BTS.
Kim rarely appears in public. One of the most notable occasions was when she accompanied V at the CELINE event in 2022, where fans could clearly see her elegant appearance and professional demeanor while αѕѕisting the idol in conversations with the company’s executives.
Although fans often refer to her as BTS’s interpreter, Nicole Kim’s role at Big Hit Music from 2017 to 2022 was A&R and Creative Director at HYBE, as well as Head of the Creative Department for BTS. In December 2022, she left HYBE and began a new role at Columbia Records as Vice President.
Columbia Records, a record label under Sony Music Entertainment, currently manages world-renowned artists such as Beyoncé, Adele, Pharrell Williams, Harry Styles, Rosalia, The Kid Laroi, and Lil Nas X.
However, there seems to have been a major change in her career recently!
Fans noticed Nicole Kim’s presence at the opening of the Min Yoongi Treatment Center on September 30. Later, during a speech by Professor Chun—the center’s director—Kim Hyun Jung (i.e., Nicole Kim) was introduced as Vice President of Big Hit Music, surprising many. This also means that Nicole Kim has returned to work with BTS!
After the news spread, some recent photos of Nicole were also dug up, showing that signs of her reunion had appeared some time ago. For example, in June this year, Kim posted a farewell to Columbia Records after several years with the label…
She was also seen in a photo posted by V on his personal Instagram in July, hanging out with Charlie Puth…
In a video capturing singer Ayden Ju’s birthday party at the end of July—where j-hope, Jimin, and SUGA were also present—Nicole Kim was seen sitting at the same table…
It seems that as soon as BTS returned after completing their military service, Nicole Kim also returned to accompany the group!
Another notable point that many fans observed is that VP Nicole Kim, along with the current CEO of Big Hit Music, Shin Seon-jung—appointed in 2024—are two veteran staff members who have worked with BTS for 10 years. As BTS enters a new phase after a two-year hiatus, the presence of experienced staff who have helped shape their career provides fans with reαѕѕurance.
On social media, fans are flooded with comments welcoming Nicole Kim’s return and expressing excitement for BTS’s future plans:
- I don't really care too much who has what position, but I do find it cool that BH is led by 2 bts veteran women as they embark on the most important stage of BTS' career and breaking new grounds
- She's back and they probably have reasons for that! Waiting for what she plans for BTS in the future
- Since the day Nicole left HYBE, I hoped one day we would see her come back. She doesn't only comeback but also becomes the VP, OMG
- Nicole’s return is a wonderful signal. She understands the group, understands the music, and understands the fans. No one is more suitable to be with BTS at this moment.
- She is always part of the BTS family — so happy to see her return! 10 years of working together make her help BTS so much in the plans for the 2nd chapter
- Wow, Big Hit Music is now led by 2 woman, and all of them has been working with BTS during a decade. So exciting
- From translator to Vice President? But it’s understandable—her talent has been demonstrated through BTS’s successful projects.
- Wow, it makes sense with the moments we saw her with BTS in Los Angeles months ago
- Honestly, anyone who’s helped BTS achieve so much clearly deserves all the recognition
