In a moment fans have anticipated for years, BTS leader RM (Kim Namjoon) has officially announced that he has obtained his Class 2 standard driver’s license.

The news was shared during a special Weverse live broadcast on December 16, 2025, where all the members of BTS gathered to connect with fans. RM excitedly introduced himself by saying,

“Everyone, I’m Kim Namjoon, and I got my driver’s license,” which was met with immediate applause and cheers from both his fellow members and viewers worldwide.

Overcoming Past Challenges

For a long time, RM’s lack of a driver’s license was a recurring lighthearted topic within the fandom, as he often mentioned his fear of driving or his tendency to be “clumsy.”

During the live stream, j-hope playfully brought up rumors that RM had failed his first attempt.

RM candidly confirmed the story, explaining the mishap:

  • The Error: He accidentally crossed the center line while making a U-turn during his first test.
  • The Reason: He noted that the road paint had worn off, making it difficult to see the markings.
  • Success: Despite the initial setback, he successfully passed the driving test on his second try.

Future Plans Behind the Wheel

While he is now legally allowed to drive, RM admitted he still has some learning to do. “I can drive, but I can’t park yet,” he joked, adding that he would need additional lessons specifically for parking.

Surprisingly, RM revealed that he doesn’t actually plan on buying a car anytime soon. For him, the process was about personal growth rather than necessity. He stated:

“I don’t plan on buying a car. I just wanted to try getting a license. I wanted to overcome my own trauma.”

Sharing the Joy

To commemorate the achievement, RM also shared a photo of his new Class 2 standard driver’s license on his personal social media accounts, much to the delight of ARMY.

This milestone represents a significant personal victory for the artist, who has often spoken about his desire to challenge himself in areas outside of music.

As BTS continues to celebrate their reunion and future activities, Namjoon’s “driver era” marks a symbolic step forward in his personal journey, proving that it’s never too late to conquer old fears.

The South Korean entertainment community is mourning the loss of Ji Byung-soo, the beloved viral sensation affectionately known as “Hal Dam-bi” (Grandfather Son Dam-bi).

It was revealed on December 17, 2025, that Ji passed away on October 30, 2025, at the age of 82.

The Viral Sensation of “Korea Sings”

Ji Byung-soo became an overnight star in March 2019 following a legendary appearance on the long-running KBS program Korea Sings (National Singing Contest).

Then 77 years old, he shocked and delighted the audience with a passionate, highly synchronized performance of Son Dam-bi’s 2008 hit song “Crazy.”

His infectious energy, rhythmic “chair dance,” and genuine joy earned him the nickname “Hal Dam-bi.”

The performance went viral globally, amassing millions of views and turning him into a symbol of “aging gracefully” and finding passion at any age.

A Life of Resilience and Artistry

Beyond his brief stint as a viral star, Ji Byung-soo’s life was marked by both artistic talent and personal hardship:

  • Diverse Career: Born in Gimje, he worked in construction and managed various businesses, including a boutique in Myeong-dong and a bar in Sinchon.
  • Traditional Dance: Long before his K-pop fame, he was a trained traditional dancer and was once selected for a team that performed in Japan.
  • Overcoming Adversity: Despite losing his fortune to fraud and living as a basic livelihood security recipient in his later years, he remained positive, eventually publishing a book titled “Grandpa Dambi, You Never Know What Life Has in Store!”

Relationship with Son Dam-bi

Ji Byung-soo’s fame led to a heartwarming connection with the original artist, Son Dam-bi. After his performance went viral, Son Dam-bi posted a video response thanking him for his passion.

The two eventually shared the stage for a special collaboration on a news program, a moment Ji often cited as one of the happiest of his later years.

Final Farewell

According to his longtime manager and friend, Song Dong-ho, Ji passed away due to natural causes (old age) at the National Medical Center.

Although he never married, his two adopted sons and his manager served as chief mourners during his funeral.

His remains were enshrined at the Byeokje Municipal Cemetery columbarium on November 15, 2025.

Fans across South Korea have taken to social media to pay tribute to the man who reminded everyone that it is never too late to dance.