Seoul, South Korea – BTS member V, also known as Kim Taehyung, recently captivated fans worldwide by sharing glimpses of his personal fitness journey, including an impressive 10.22-kilometer run along Seoul’s iconic Han River. The idol’s dedication to health and his candid updates have sparked a wave of inspiration among ARMYs (BTS’s fandom), motivating many to embark on their own wellness paths.
V uploaded a short video to his Instagram story on September 25, 2025, showing himself catching his breath after completing the substantial jog. Despite his natural, bare-faced appearance, fans were struck by his effortless charm and resilience, quickly turning his personal workout into a global trending topic.
V’s Commitment to Fitness and Upcoming Comeback
The superstar’s recent runs are part of a broader commitment to fitness and weight management, especially as BTS prepares for a full-group comeback anticipated early next year. V has been open about his goals, aiming to drop approximately 3 kilograms from his current 67-68 kg to 65 kg. This disciplined approach reflects his focus on self-care and physical conditioning following his military service, where he reportedly gained muscle mass during his time with the Special Duty Team (SDT).
During a Weverse live broadcast on August 29, V revealed he had begun running regularly, often joined by fellow member Jungkook. He humorously recounted the intensity of these sessions, mentioning that Jungkook’s stamina was “incredible” and that he himself was “drooling” and “almost collapsed” from exertion. The duo plans to undertake three cardio sessions per week by the Han River, emphasizing consistency. V also shared a practical fitness tip, stating that maintaining a heart rate of 120-130 beats per minute during cardio is a scientifically proven method for effective fat loss.
The “ARMY Running Crew” and Playful Rules
Beyond his personal achievements, V playfully floated the idea of an “ARMY running crew” along the Han River, inviting fans to join him, albeit under some humorous yet strict conditions. The rules included no chatting or recognition during runs, no overtaking “out of pride,” no “BTS disappointed?” quips, and no photos mid-run. He even suggested reframing walk breaks as a strategic part of training rather than a sign of fatigue.
While fans found the rules amusingly challenging, many respected his wishes, understanding his desire for a peaceful workout. V later expressed gratitude on Weverse, sharing that he often encounters fans during his runs who respectfully offer discreet “Bangtan greetings” without interrupting his routine. This mutual respect between the idol and his fanbase was highlighted as a symbolic gesture of trust and connection.
Global Inspiration and Fan Reactions
V’s transparent sharing of his fitness journey has had a profound impact on his global fanbase. Social media platforms quickly buzzed with reactions, with hashtags like #Taehyungie and #HanRiverRun trending worldwide. Fans expressed immense admiration for his endurance and dedication, with many sharing their own running journeys, inspired by V’s example. Comments poured in, praising the K-pop icon and noting how his dedication encouraged them to maintain their spirits and start their own health initiatives.
The outpouring of support and emulation underscores V’s influence beyond music, demonstrating how BTS members continue to inspire positive lifestyle choices among their millions of followers. The 10km Han River run, therefore, was more than just a workout; it became a moment of shared motivation, emphasizing personal health, discipline, and the unique, authentic bond between V and the ARMY.
