During a recent variety show appearance, J-Hope (hope himself) casually dropped a bomb: while serving in the military, instead of blasting BTS or Army jams, soldiers were hooked on IVE. Yes, you read that correctly—the hottest tunes in the barracks weren’t “Dynamite” or “Butter,” but IVE.
He revealed that IVE’s songs were among the most played tracks during downtime, prompting him to joke that his fellow soldiers would have gone absolutely nuts knowing he knows them personally. Because nothing says “barracks bonding” like dancing to girl-group choruses late at night, right?
J-Hope didn’t stop there. With that trademark grin, he admitted to bragging to his juniors about his entertainer friends—yes, he name-dropped them like the crown prince of celebrity acquaintances. And let’s be real: who hasn’t wanted to say, “Yeah, I casually know that chart-topping group” to impress the fitness parade?
But what really hits you? Even in uniform, J-Hope’s vibe is humble, self-deprecating, and utterly charming—like, “Yeah, I know famous people and I’ll brag about it, but only because they’re awesome.” You have to love how he keeps it real, even in camouflage.
The story went viral because it’s both hilariously unexpected and perfectly J-Hope: operating in peacekeeping mode by day, and spilling K-pop tea by night. It just goes to show that even superstar soldiers have playlist preferences—and yes, IVE made the cut.
So here’s to J-Hope, for serving with honor, dropping truth bombs in interviews, and reminding us that even in military service, K-pop isn’t about loyalty to one group—it’s about good music, friendship, and midnight bragging rights.
