BTS announce ‘extended break’ from music to ‘recharge’ and live ‘normal’ lives

The superstar K-pop group BTS will go on an “extended break” to allow them to “recharge” and live normal lives, according to their management.

The seven-piece band have taken the music scene by storm over the past few years, and recently became the first Korean group to have a number one album in the UK.

In a statement posted on Twitter, their management said: “We would like to announce that for the first time since their debut, BTS will be going on an official and extended period of rest and relaxation.

“Today’s Lotte Duty Free Family Concert performance will make the last scheduled event before members prepare to take their vacations.

“This period of rest will be an opportunity for the members of BTS, who have relentlessly driven themselves towards their goal since their debut, to recharge and prepare to present themselves anew as musicians and creators.

“This will also provide them with a chance to enjoy the ordinary lives of young people in their 20s, albeit briefly.”

They added: “During this time, the members will rest and recharge in their own personal ways.

“Should you have a chance encounter with a member of BTS while they are on vacation, we ask that you show consideration for their need to rest and enjoy their private time off.

“BTS will return refreshed and recharged to return all the love you have an continue to show them. Thank you.”

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There was no announcement of an official return date, but the group are booked to play Riyadh in Saudi Arabia and Seoul in their home country of South Korea in October.

It will be their first scheduled time off since 2013, which is when the group debuted.

In June, the group made history by becoming the first Korean group to perform at Wembley Stadium, selling out their first show in just 90 minutes.

BTS have a huge and dedicated fan base, which credits the group with breaking down taboos around mental health, and helping young people.

Their pop sound is a contrast to much of their lyrics, which deal with topics including suicide.

The group, who have more than 20 million followers on Instagram, spoke at the UN last year to launch a project to help empower young people get into work and education.

Their Love Myself project, with UNICEF, campaigned to end youth violence.

(c) Sky News 2019: BTS announce ‘extended break’ from music to ‘recharge’ and live ‘normal’ lives