BTS’ Jung Kook’s candid livestream reveals pressures behind idol life

BTS member Jung Kook has sparked online debate after hosting a late-night drinking livestream in which he spoke candidly about quitting smoking and vented frustration about agency constraints — a rare unscripted moment from one of K-pop’s most tightly managed global stars. The singer went live at around 3:30 a.m. on Thursday and chatted with fans for roughly 90 minutes. He said he had been drinking with a close friend he currently lives with and his older brother, appearing more relaxed and outspoken than in typical idol broadcasts. During the stream, Jung Kook revealed he quit smoking. “I used to smoke a lot. But I really worked hard and quit,” he said. He added, “The moment I say this, the company will make a fuss again,” referring to his agency BigHit Music, part of HYBE — the entertainment company behind BTS. At one point, he openly vented about restrictions he feels as a celebrity. “I don’t even know what I’m talking about. It’s frustrating. I’m annoyed. I’ll live the way I want,” he said. He continued, “I just want to be happy. I know I can’t. How ma

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