BTS member Jin has pushed back against suggestions that he felt sidelined during the making of the group’s album ARIRANG, saying his focus has always been on the band rather than individual creative credit.

In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, Jin addressed speculation from fans that he was frustrated about missing the early songwriting phase of the album, which had already begun in Los Angeles while he was completing military service and solo commitments.

More than 100 songs were reportedly developed during the early stages of the project, leading to online discussion about his limited involvement at that point.

Jin acknowledged a brief feeling of disappointment but rejected the idea of resentment.

“I’m a little bummed,” he said, but added that prioritising his own input could have delayed the project and left fans waiting longer. He said his focus remained on the group’s long-term plans rather than immediate participation.

Jin emphasised that his decisions have consistently centred on BTS as a collective, noting that “there’s more to life than just the present” and highlighting the importance of timing in the group’s work.

The singer, who was the first BTS member to enlist for South Korea’s mandatory military service, said his commitment to fans and the group continued throughout his time away, including pre-recorded messages and small gestures during service.

Reflecting on his role in the band, Jin said he values being part of BTS above pursuing a solo career, adding that working independently is not a priority for him.

He also described missing the other members during his time away and reiterated that continuing without the group has never been something he considers meaningful.

Seen in this context, his absence during the early stages of ARIRANG appears less as exclusion and more as a deliberate choice based on trust in the group’s process and shared direction.