BTS star V has opened up about a personal health issue he had not previously discussed with his fans. His candid admission came during a recent livestream with fellow member Jung Kook.
Kim Taehyung opens up about hearing loss he first noticed while serving in the Korean military
According to The Korea Times, Kim Taehyung, aka V, revealed during an Aug. 12 livestream that he has dealt with worsening hearing for about two and a half years. The 30-year-old singer said one ear now hears significantly better than the other. He compared the difference by saying that if one ear can hear at 100%, the other can hear only about 30%.
V said this marked the first time he had told ARMY about the issue. He also confirmed that he is receiving medical care and regularly visits the hospital. “I’m going to the hospital regularly,” V said during the livestream on Weverse.
The singer said he first noticed the problem during his mandatory military service. According to People, V served from Dec. 11, 2023, through June 10, 2025.
V explained that his hearing became worse during that period. He said people around him encouraged him to view the issue as a matter of mental strength. Looking back, he acknowledged that he should have taken the problem more seriously.
Jung Kook encouraged V to prioritize his health during their conversation. V also said he is taking prescribed medication while continuing to seek medical care. V did not disclose what caused his hearing loss. His comments also did not identify a specific diagnosis.
People noted that hearing loss can have several causes. However, no cause has been publicly confirmed for V’s condition, so it would be speculative to connect his symptoms to any particular condition.
The health update comes as BTS continues its global Arirang Tour. The group launched the tour in Goyang, South Korea, and has been scheduled for North American performances. The tour includes stops in Chicago, Los Angeles and Toronto.
V’s revelation gives ARMY a rare glimpse into a health challenge he has quietly managed for years. For now, he appears focused on treatment while continuing his activities with BTS.
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