There is an unchanging rule in the life cycle of K-pop idols: the golden era of their careers is often very short-lived. That’s why they have to debut at a very young age—around 14 or 15, or even earlier—and work continuously and tirelessly after debut to maintain their popularity.

Fierce competition, rapidly changing trends, and the short lifespan of music releases make it difficult for many groups to hold their position for long. Quite a few groups see their popularity decline after 5–7 years of activity, or they disband due to contracts, differing directions, or personal pressures.

However, BTS as a whole—and SUGA in particular—are rare exceptions. They have not only maintained lasting popularity for over a decade, but have also continued to break records, win international awards, top music charts, and expand their influence globally across various fields.

Remarkably, even during their roughly three-year absence from the K-pop scene due to mandatory military service, their name never stopped trending, and the moment they returned, the group instantly became the center of attention once again. What’s more, SUGA and the members didn’t take a break after completing their service—they immediately got back to making music in preparation for an album set to be released next spring.

Both SUGA and BTS are well aware that they want to accomplish as much as possible while they still can, because time waits for no one. So, when it comes to the topic of “retirement,” it may seem far too soon. Yet SUGA didn’t hesitate to speak openly to fans about his future plans, and even received enthusiastic support from ARMYs.

SUGA calmly shared: "I envision myself performing until my 60s". In response to fans shouting, "Please grace the stage till your final moments," he replied humorously: "Let me rest a little bit before I ∂ιє though. I don't think I'll be able to even hold a mic at that age!"

SUGA’s comments reminded many fans of when RM once stated in an interview that BTS would keep performing until they became fathers, or even grandfathers: “This is us talking because we want to do this for a long time. We pαѕѕed the so-called seven-year limits… BTS stands for Bangtan Boys, and we envision ourselves becoming Bangtan Papas or even Bangtan Grandpas. Maybe 20 or 30 years later. That’s what we want. BTP let’s go!” 

Fans couldn’t help but laugh at SUGA’s and BTS’s adorable retirement plans. Many even agreed to let the group retire at 60, joking that by then, they themselves would be struggling to attend concerts on shaky legs or unable to clearly see their idols through presbyopic eyes:

- I think SUGA changed the most out of the BTS, maybe tied with V, He used to be indifferent and cold-ḅŀööďed, now he's so sweet and affectionate, it seems so strange to me. And V too, he used to be a goof-ball, a very weird individual, now he's so calm and collected, not to mention, considered one of the ̾s̾e̾xiest men alive. BTS really changed and I don't really know if I am just nostalgic or biased but I feel like I miss the old BTS ~ pre-MOTS series

- I hope he's still performing at 60 too, at the very least it might help to stop the rampant ageism that goes on in entertainment.

- anyway yoongi finishes his US leg today i’m genuinely so proud of him like this tour must have been so scary and difficult to plan and execute but he’s literally done so well like every single stop he’s given it his all i’m so grateful i got to see him ;)

- I SHOULD HAVE BEEN THERE WITH YOONGI PLANNING OUR FUTURE AND PREPARING OUR KIDS SCHOOL PLAN

- You can rest anytime you want but we will always be there to support you

- He said the truth but i think if they hold a concert at 60yrs old, i will be about 50s and it is still good for me to dance with other fellow ARMYs

- Yes and after 60s they will grow old together as dads, live their own happy life with their lovers and we still witness them

- This is the most beautiful moment of my life and i think BTS too