RM, Jin and Suga of South Korean boy band BTS tested positive for COVID-19 over the weekend.
COVID-19 diagnoses: South Korean entertainment company Big Hit Music, which manages BTS, confirmed via online platform Weverse that the three BTS members tested positive soon after arriving in South Korea from their recent in-person concert in the U.S.
- As per South Korea’s quarantine regulations, travelers flying from the U.S. are required to quarantine for 10 days upon arrival and to take two PCR tests after entering the country.
- Suga, who was isolated from his bandmates since taking a PCR test on Thursday, received a positive result on Friday.
- RM, who reportedly did not exhibit any symptoms, was scheduled to be released from quarantine after previously testing negative the week prior. However, he tested positive on Saturday.
- Jin, who felt “flu-like symptoms” such as a light fever, also tested positive on Saturday after previously testing negative twice.
- The infected members, who have each received two COVID-19 vaccine doses, are currently being treated at their homes, following South Korea’s health guidelines.
- Big Hit Music has committed to focusing on “the health and safety of its artists” while also showing “support for their speedy recovery.”
- Earlier this month, the entertainment company announced on Twitter that BTS will take a break after the group’s U.S. performances.
- “We would like to inform you that BTS is planning to take a second official extended period of rest since their first in 2019, after they complete their official scheduled events of ‘BTS Permission to Dance on Stage – LA’ and the ‘2021 Jingle Ball Tour,’” BigHit announced on Dec. 6.
Response: World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus took to Twitter on Saturday to wish RM, Jin and Suga a speedy recovery.
- “Dear @BTS_twt Namjoon, Jin & Yoongi, rest well & feel better soon! 빨리 낫길 바랄게요,” Ghebreyesus wrote.
- His tweet also included a message reminding everyone to continue following safety precautions.
- “It’s so important for everyone to take precautions: Wear a well-fitting mask, keep a safe distance, avoid poorly ventilated, crowded spaces, clean hands and get vaccinated when it’s your turn,” he tweeted.
- BTS fans appreciated Ghebreyesus’ message, with many joining him to urge the public to stay safe during the pandemic.
Featured Image via BangtanTV
