Jung Kook’s latest solo release, “Never Let Go,” has taken the music world by storm, securing an overwhelming 79% of the vote in a recent Billboard poll. Fans of the BTS star, known as the ARMY, rallied behind the new track, making it the clear favorite among this week’s new music releases.
The song, which debuted on June 7, has quickly become a fan favorite. It outshined new releases from artists like Sabrina Carpenter, Zach Bryan featuring Noeline Hofmann, Charli XCX, Gracie Abrams, Tems, and RAYE. The heartfelt support from the ARMY was evident as they propelled “Never Let Go” to the top of the charts.
“Never Let Go” is Jung Kook’s first solo release since his 2023 debut album, “Golden,” which made a significant impact by debuting at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 albums chart. The new track is a touching dedication to BTS’s loyal supporters, affectionately known as ARMY. According to HYBE, the song carries a sincere message of never letting go of each other, a sentiment that resonates deeply with fans.
In the song, Jung Kook sings, “Oh, every day, I wonder if this all is just a dream. Everything falls into place ’cause you’re right here with me. Without your love, I’m nothing. You mean more than you know.” These lyrics capture the essence of the bond between Jung Kook and his fans, emphasizing the irreplaceable connection they share.
Currently, Jung Kook and his fellow BTS members Jin, RM, SUGA, J-Hope, Jimin, and V are serving in the South Korean military, which requires an 18-month enlistment for all able-bodied men by the age of 28. Despite their military commitments, the members have continued to release solo projects, keeping their fans engaged and excited.
Trailing behind “Never Let Go” in the Billboard poll was Sabrina Carpenter’s new single “Please Please Please,” which garnered 8% of the vote. Zach Bryan’s collaboration with Noeline Hofmann on “Purple Gas” received 3%, and Charli XCX’s album “Brat” secured 2% of the vote.
Jung Kook’s return to the music scene with “Never Let Go” has been met with immense enthusiasm. The song’s release coincided with the 2024 BTS Festa in Seoul, a celebration of the group’s 10th anniversary. This timing added an extra layer of significance to the track, making it a heartfelt gesture of appreciation and love for ARMY worldwide.
In 2023, Jung Kook achieved remarkable success with his collaboration with Latto on the song “Seven.” The track debuted at No. 3 on the Official U.K. Singles Chart, marking the highest-charting debut by a solo Korean artist. Additionally, “Seven” reached No. 1 on both the Billboard Global 200 and Billboard Global Excl. U.S. charts, making it the first leader on these lists for a BTS member as a soloist. The song also set a record as the fastest to reach one billion streams in Spotify history.
As Jung Kook and his fellow BTS members continue their military service, fans eagerly await their return to group activities in 2025. In the meantime, solo projects like “Never Let Go” provide a glimpse into the individual artistry of each member, keeping the ARMY engaged and connected.
Jung Kook’s “Never Let Go” is more than just a song; it’s a testament to the enduring bond between the artist and his fans. The overwhelming support from the ARMY in the Billboard poll is a clear indication of the song’s impact and the deep connection that Jung Kook has with his audience.
As the BTS members navigate their military service and pursue solo endeavors, the ARMY remains steadfast in their support, eagerly anticipating the group’s reunion in 2025. Until then, tracks like “Never Let Go” serve as a reminder of the unbreakable bond between Jung Kook and his fans, a bond that continues to grow stronger with each new release.
