It’s no surprise that BTS is often mentioned in global interviews of other K-pop idols. There are many meanings that can be inferred from dragging the names of K-pop superstars into these discussions.

On the one hand, it means emphasizing BTS’s “pave-the-way” position and showing the great influence BTS has had in making K-pop popular globally. On the other hand, mentioning BTS can become “easy bait”, creating controversial topics or trying to get other idols to talk negatively about BTS.

SEVENTEEN’s Vernon once fell into this situation, but luckily, his quick wit turned the situation around. After his answer, he even received praise for his intelligence and maturity.

This situation happened when SEVENTEEN participated in a global interview with Sirius XM radio. At the time, SEVENTEEN was following in BTS' footsteps with notable success in the United States, including a sold-out tour.

From the start, netizens were unimpressed with the interview, explaining that the interviewer didn't seem to do much research. They believed that he chose to ask the members very standard and general questions, such as how they were formed.

Of course, everything was fine until the interviewer suddenly mentioned BTS in a disrespectful comparison to SEVENTEEN. Specifically, he asked: "When you started the band, there’s no way you expected that you’d be up there just like BTS. That you’d be at the same level as BTS".

While fans immediately got angry at this question, Vernon kept his cool and gave a short but perfect answer: "When we debuted, BTS wasn’t the BTS today either. So, it’s really crazy what we’re doing right now and where we are at right now".

Vernon sкιℓℓfully gave a flawless answer by pointing out how far BTS has come in the past few years, but also without downplaying the achievements that SEVENTEEN has made over the years.

When the video was posted, many netizens commented on the question, wondering why BTS had to be mentioned in SEVENTEEN's interview.

But they also focused on praising Vernon for his mature response and ability to divert attention from possible comparisons and "fan wars." Notably, both groups are top K-pop artists and are under HYBE:

- It was disappointing to see them being compared to another kpop group. Every group has its own pace in reaching success so it wasn't necessary to mention another group and compare it with them. Every group worked hard and did their own way of achieving things. As a Carat and Army, I feel so sad about this interview.

- i'm an army also a carat, but looking this interview makes me sad. why he's comparing with another group? like what? hope this situation will not happen again. just respect each other

- I wish interviewers would at least research who they're going to interview beforehand and ask interesting questions instead of the generic ones that all interviewers ask As a fan of both BTS and Seventeen I agree with the other comments on how mentioning/comparing them to BTS is rude considering they're different artists with different music styles. Both groups worked hard to be where they are now and should deserve such respect

- It's really cringe with those questions. But well done for Vernon which calmly answer showing mature side of him. Applause to DK and Seungkwan facing the interview collectedly and cool

- BRUH I LOVED HOW HUMBLE AND PROPER ANSWERED SUCH A DISAPPOINTING QUESTION. SEVENTEEN'S GOAL IS TO BE THE BEST SEVENTEEN THEY CAN BE THEY ARE THEIR OWN GOAL WTH

- mad respect for vernon for always taking these questions in the most real way