BTS member V, whose real name is Kim Tae-hyung, has opened up about a health issue he has been dealing with for more than two years, revealing that he has experienced significant hearing loss in one ear.
During a livestream on Wednesday, the 30-year-old singer told fans that he has been dealing with the problem for around two and a half years. He said this was the first time he had spoken publicly about the issue.
V explained the extent of his hearing difficulty by comparing the hearing in both ears. According to the singer, if the hearing in his left ear is considered 100, his right ear is only around 30.
V says hearing worsened during military service
The BTS star said his hearing problems became worse while he was serving in the South Korean military.
He initially did not take the issue seriously and believed it was something he could overcome through mental strength. However, he is now receiving medical treatment and regularly visiting the hospital.
V served in the South Korean military after enlisting in 2023 and was discharged in June 2025.
South Korea requires most able-bodied men to complete mandatory military service, with BTS members also fulfilling their service obligations during the group’s career break.
BTS reunites for world tour
V’s revelation comes as BTS is once again performing together as a seven-member group following the completion of the members’ mandatory military service.
The group’s Arirang World Tour began in South Korea in April and marks BTS’ first major world tour in years.
The livestream came after BTS completed concerts in Baltimore, Maryland.
The tour is scheduled to take the group to several international destinations in the coming months, including Los Angeles, Buenos Aires, Bangkok, Sydney and Hong Kong.
Jungkook also opens up about injury
During the livestream, fellow BTS member Jungkook also spoke about an injury he has been managing during the tour.
Jungkook revealed that his shin injury had come close to developing into a stress fracture. He said he would need to manage the injury carefully to continue performing during the demanding tour schedule.
With both V and Jungkook discussing their health challenges, the livestream offered fans a glimpse into some of the physical difficulties the BTS members are navigating while returning to the global stage.
