BTS have insisted they don’t see themselves in competition with Western chart giants, despite their latest album ARIRANG spending a third week at No. 1 on the Billboard 200.
RM said the group still view themselves modestly, even as they continue to dominate global charts.
Asked about comparisons to Taylor Swift, Harry Styles and Bruno Mars in a cover interview with Rolling Stone, RM dismissed the idea of rivalry entirely.
He said the three stars are “greater artists than us” and described BTS as “just a boy band from Korea”.
The group also reflected on how their mindset has shifted over the years.
SUGA admitted he used to be “way too competitive” with other artists, but said the band now prioritise enjoying their work rather than chasing constant wins.
He added that the pressure to achieve had once pushed their physical and emotional limits, but that growing older has allowed them to “relax a little” and “have more fun with it.”
The interview also touched on the long-running question of whether BTS might one day headline the Super Bowl halftime show.
RM said the global rise of Korean culture — from films like Parasite to the worldwide popularity of K-pop — could eventually make it possible.
He said: “Maybe if time goes by, and the thoughts in the people change.”
RM insisted they would “definitely want to someday” if the opportunity came.
Jimin noted that the decision ultimately lies with the NFL.
He said: “We can’t do it unless we’re invited.”
ARIRANG, their first full-length album in six years, continues its strong chart run, while lead single SWIM recently hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
