BTS’s V (Kim Taehyung) recently shared insights into his solo album release and future acting career during an interview with the renowned American music magazine, Rolling Stone.
Rolling Stone initiated the conversation by inquiring about V’s hiatus due to military service. V responded, “While in the military, performing wasn’t an option, even if I wished to. Since I answered my country’s call, I had to dedicate myself fully to that situation. So, I aimed to temporarily set aside ‘V’ and live as ordinary citizen Kim Taehyung, fulfilling my duties.”
He continued, “I used that time to reflect on myself and redefine who I ultimately want to become. I diligently exercised, read many books, listened to a lot of music, and it became an important opportunity to recenter my mind and body.” V highlighted ‘The Eleven Steps’ as the most impactful book he read, also mentioning works by authors Han Kang and Keigo Higashino.
Regarding his solo album ‘Layover,’ V explained, “I felt it was necessary to reflect on the moments I’ve experienced as BTS’s V. With ‘Layover,’ I wanted to showcase that ‘I also enjoy this kind of music…’ It’s an album that truly explains me, demonstrating my genuine love for music. I put a lot of thought into its creation, as I aimed to explore various musical colors.”
Regarding his work on the ‘Arirang’ album, V expressed, “There isn’t a single song among the tracks that isn’t my style. This is the music I wanted to create and the genre I wanted to pursue. I was truly sincere in my work, and this ‘Arirang’ album is one filled with deep affection.”
V contributed to both lyric writing and composition for the ‘Arirang’ album tracks ‘2.0’ and ‘Into the Sun.’ ‘Into the Sun’ was notably introduced as a song V composed, inspired on his way home after a workout. Interviewer Brian Hiatt clarified, “I wish I had asked about ‘Into the Sun,’ but at the time of the interview in February, I didn’t realize how significant V’s role was in that particular song.”
When questioned if he had no ambition to become a solo pop star, V candidly replied, “If that desire were truly zero, then why would I even pursue being an artist?” When further asked if he might create a pop solo album designed for chart success, he responded, “Pop music is also a genre I love and have explored, so it’s definitely something I should try, and want to try, someday.”
Addressing whether he plans to pursue more acting roles in the future, V revealed his broad aspirations: “My mindset for acting and music is exactly the same. I don’t want to restrict myself to one genre; I want to try various music genres and take on many different acting roles.”
