In brief
During a live‑stream while touring, V disclosed that he has been battling hearing loss in one ear for more than two years, a condition that worsened during his mandatory Korean military service. He indicated that the left ear remains largely functional, whereas the right hears at a lower level, and that he is now undergoing regular medical treatment and medication. The revelation came at a pivotal moment for BTS, who recently reunited on their world tour following personnel hiatuses. Accompanying V was Jungkook, who discussed a shin injury threatening his performance. This candid disclosure highlights the physical challenges artists face even in the spotlight.
During a live‑stream that attracted thousands of fans, V, a member of the global pop sensation BTS, revealed that he has been dealing with hearing loss in one ear for over two and a half years. He explained that while his left ear is still functional, the right only holds up to about 30 points on a typical hearing test.
V said the problem began worsening during his mandatory military service in South Korea, and in the beginning he thought it was a matter of mental resilience and did not seek treatment. Now, he is actively prescribed medication and visits a hospital on a regular basis to monitor the condition.
His remarks came at a crucial time for the group, whose first world tour in several years was launched following the reunion of all seven members after personnel had completed their 18‑month military duties.
While V shared his hearing journey, former bandmate Jungkook also appeared on the stream, admitting that his shin had developed a stress fracture‑like injury and that he might need to manage it carefully to keep performing on the tour.
The world tour continues to take BTS to major cities such as Los Angeles, Buenos Aires, Bangkok, Sydney and Hong Kong, with the latest livestream taking place after concluding concerts in Baltimore, Maryland.
