NEW YORK: A new comic book chronicles the rise to stardom of South Korea's K-pop music sensation BTS and their recent transition to military service.
TidalWave Comics has added the 22-page book to its FAME series, which uses the comic medium to shine a light on musical acts.
Since their 2013 debut, BTS have become a worldwide sensation with their upbeat hits and social campaigns aimed at empowering youth.
The glossy chronicles how the seven singers became famous - and their switch from pop stars to soldiers.
All able-bodied men in South Korea aged between 18 and 28 must serve in the military for between 18 and 21 months as part of efforts to defend against nuclear-armed North Korea.
Some have won exemptions or served shorter terms, including Olympic medalists and prize-winning classical musicians. Some lawmakers had called for BTS to be exempt.
But in December 2022 the eldest member Jin joined the army, and the others followed, with the final three beginning their duty last month. Fans have pledged to wait until 2025 for them to perform as a group again.
The book will be released in both print and digital formats and soft and hardcovers on Jan. 10.
Reuters
Sat Jan 06 2024
A cover by Yonami with colors by Ale Starling, from the "FAME BTS" manga comic book, written by Eric M. Esquivel. - TidalWave Comics/via REUTERS
Immediate allocation of RM150 mln for local authorities, DID to tackle flash floods
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allocation is intended to address the recent flash floods that hit the capital and several major towns.
Budget 2025: Sabah, Sarawak to continue receiving among highest allocations - PM
Sabah and Sarawak continues to be prioritised under Budget 2025, with allocations of RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively.
Minimum wage to increase to RM1,700 effective Feb 1, 2025
The Progressive Wage Policy would be fully enforced next year with an allocation of RM200 million, benefiting 50,000 workers.
Bursa Malaysia ends higher on Budget 2025 optimism
The benchmark index, which opened 1.85 points higher at 1,643.29, moved between 1,641.71 and 1,649.31 throughout the trading session.
Five important aspects relating to people’s lives in Budget 2025 - PM
The focus is on driving the MADANI Economy, speeding reforms, cutting red tape, raising wages, and tackling the cost of living.
Economic outlook: Govt plans to leverage, expand existing city transit system
The expansion aims to provide a more efficient and reliable public transportation network, reduce congestion, and improve accessibility.
Economic outlook: Budget 2025 to lay foundation for a digital-driven economy
The report said Budget 2025 will entail efforts to position Kuala Lumpur as a top 20 global startup hub by 2030 through the KL20 initiative.
Economic outlook: Corruption and lack of accountability hinder economic progress
Special Cabinet Committee on National governance is established to curb corruption, law reforms to modernise outdate regulations, MoF said.
National Wages Consultative Council will be strengthened
The govt will also incentivise hiring women returning from career breaks, offer job matching and improve care services facilities.
Economic outlook: Ensuring 11 years of compulsory education for all children
Budget 2025 will continue prioritising upskilling and retraining initiatives to equip workers with the latest skill sets necessary.
Consolidated public sector projected to record lower surplus of RM41.7 bil 2024
The MoF said the consolidated general government revenue is estimated to increase slightly to RM384.7 billion in 2024.
PM announces substantial Budget 2025 hastening Malaysia to become Asian economic powerhouse
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said it would create jobs and also tackle financial leakages to enhance public spending efficiency.
Fatwa gazetted declaring GISB deviates from true Islamic teachings - MAIS
The ban includes any teachings or practices similar to those associated with GISB.
Budget 2025 allocation at RM421 billion, up 3.3 per cent from last year
The government has allocated RM421 billion, or 20.2 per cent of the GDP, for Budget 2025.
Malaysian mothers cheer vote to fix 'sexist' constitution
The legislation still needs to be approved by the upper house, but campaigners are hopeful it should go through.
Sinwar's death came at the end of months of searching by Israel
The operation which finally killed Yahya Sinwar was not a planned and targeted strike, Israeli officials said.
Najib regrets over SRC International losses, High Court heard
Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak admitted at the High Court that he has certain regrets over the losses facing SRC International Sdn Bhd.
Smashed hotel room, narcotics found as Liam Payne death probe unfolds
Liam Payne died of multiple traumas and internal bleeding after plunging from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, prosecutors said.
Billionaire Cuban stumps for Harris as Musk hits trail for Trump
Mark Cuban calls Donald Trump's plan to impose tariffs on 60 pct of Chinese goods a "crazy notion" that will ultimately hurt consumers.
Malaysia’s trade records 10.2 per cent jump, exceeds RM2 trillion mark in first nine months of 2024
According to the World Trade Organisation's forecast, Asia's exports are expected to rise by 7.4 per cent in 2024.