BTS member V (Kim Taehyung) has once again solidified his status as a global fashion icon with his appearance as the cover star for Vogue Japan’s February 2026 issue.
In a high-profile collaboration with the French luxury house CELINE, for which he serves as a global ambassador, Taehyung delivers a visual narrative that transcends traditional fashion photography.
Shot in the romantic city of Paris by acclaimed photographer Park Jongha, the editorial theme revolves around ’90s cinema nostalgia.
Dressed in head-to-toe CELINE, Taehyung’s presence in the photos is described as a study in duality—expertly balancing an air of rebellious innocence with a sophisticated, mature charm.
The Duality of Kim Taehyung
Vogue Japan’s editorial team highlights the unique contradictions that define Taehyung’s persona.
At 29 years old, he is described as possessing a presence that far exceeds his years, characterized by a deep, resonant voice and a gaze that can shift seamlessly between intense and soft.
The magazine notes that since his debut in 2013, he has balanced his “powerful performances on stage” with a “surprising gentleness” in his private, unguarded moments.
This duality is captured throughout the Paris shoot, where his striking visuals and refined poise evoke the effortless elegance of classic film stars from the late 20th century.
Inspiration from the Silver Screen
Given the shoot’s cinematic inspiration, Taehyung shared his personal affinity for the film medium in an exclusive interview titled “The Quiet Charm of V.”
He revealed his admiration for Quentin Tarantino’s 1992 cult classic Reservoir Dogs and the 2005 adaptation of Pride & Prejudice.
Interestingly, he mentioned that renowned director Park Chan-wook recently recommended Anthony Minghella’s 1999 masterpiece The Talented Mr. Ripley, which Taehyung found “incredible.”
These cinematic influences are palpable in the photoshoot, where each frame feels like a still from a high-budget period piece or a moody ’90s thriller.
Reflections on “V” and “Kim Taehyung”
In a candid moment, Taehyung opened up about the challenges of balancing his public identity as V with his personal life as Kim Taehyung.
He admitted that after a significant period away from the limelight (likely due to military service and group hiatuses), the persona of “V” still feels somewhat “unfamiliar.”
However, his passion for the stage remains undiminished. He expressed a deep yearning to perform again, stating,
“I miss performing as V. I want us to release the new album soon so I can stand on stage in front of ARMY again.”
This statement has ignited excitement among fans worldwide, signaling a strong desire for a BTS comeback.
Personal Growth and Artistic Vision
When asked to describe himself in three keywords, Taehyung chose “Curious, strong-willed, optimistic.”
He also shared his unique perspective on “beauty,” defining it as “having that ‘something’ that captivates others.”
For him, beauty is found in specific, certain moments—the scent of a perfume, the glint of jewelry, or the exact second paint hits a white fabric during an artistic session.
Looking toward the future, he expressed a desire to become someone “unshakeable” to meet the expectations of his loved ones, while noting that he currently feels “healthy and grounded, both physically and mentally.”
Setting the Trend for 2026
Taehyung’s feature in Vogue Japan is not just a win for fashion enthusiasts but also a significant cultural moment for the K-pop community.
By blending high fashion with cinematic history, he has set a new standard for celebrity editorials.
His preference for warm tones like brown, grey, and green, often accented with a “hint of red,” provides a glimpse into his personal style evolution.
As the February 2026 issue hits newsstands, it stands as a testament to Taehyung’s enduring influence and his ability to remain a source of inspiration for both the music and fashion industries globally.
Stray Kids’ Felix has long been celebrated not only for his deep, resonant rap and captivating stage presence but also for his profound commitment to social welfare.
During a special appearance on the December 24, 2025, episode of tvN’s popular variety show “ You Quiz on the Block ,” host Yoo Jae Suk shed light on the artist’s immense charitable efforts.
It was revealed that in celebration of his birthday, Felix donated a staggering 200 million KRW (approximately $138,461 USD).
This act of generosity is just one of many that have defined his career, positioning him as a leading figure in a new generation of “philanthropy idols” who use their global platform to effect tangible change.
The Motivation Behind the Mission
When asked what drives his relentless pursuit of altruism, Felix offered a deeply personal perspective rooted in his upbringing.
He recalled fond memories of his great-grandmother, a woman who “didn’t speak much” but expressed her love through countless selfless actions—cooking meals, preparing blankets, and creating a safe, warm environment for her family.
“We spent so much time together that I truly felt, ‘This is what love is,’” Felix shared.
This early experience of quiet, steadfast devotion instilled in him a desire to ensure others could feel that same sense of being cared for.
He noted that growing up surrounded by such love naturally led him to think about sharing and giving from a very young age.
A “Meaningful Vacation” in Laos
Perhaps most striking was Felix’s decision to spend his precious vacation time volunteering in Laos alongside his mother.
In an industry where vacations are rare and often used for rest, Felix chose to fly to Southeast Asia to provide hands-on aid.
He explained that while seeing global issues on a screen is one thing, witnessing them in person is transformative.
“That’s when it clicked—this is the reason,” he said, reflecting on the joy of helping those in need.
For Felix, the happiness gained from giving far outweighed the benefits of a standard holiday.
He emphasized that the immense love he receives from his fans, STAY, serves as the fuel for his desire to help those who lack basic support systems.
Stray Kids’ Felix (Credit: YouTube)
A History of Record-Breaking Generosity
Felix’s commitment to humanitarian causes is backed by a consistent track record of high-value donations.
In 2023, he was inducted into the Honors Club, an organization recognizing donors who have contributed at least 30 million KRW.
By January 2024, his contributions to UNICEF reached 100 million KRW, making him the youngest member ever to be inducted into the prestigious UNICEF Honors Club.
His donation of 200 million KRW on his most recent birthday further solidifies his status as a champion for children’s rights and global health, ensuring that his legacy will be as much about his character as his music.
Inspiring a Global Movement
The impact of Felix’s actions extends far beyond the monetary value of his gifts. By openly discussing his motivations and experiences on a platform like “You Quiz on the Block,” he inspires millions of fans to consider how they can contribute to their own communities.
His philosophy that “the happiness you give comes back to you” resonates with a global audience, fostering a culture of empathy within the K-pop fandom.
As Felix continues to break records on the Billboard charts with Stray Kids, he remains grounded in his mission to spread love, proving that true success is measured by the lives one touches.
Looking Forward to 2026
As 2025 comes to a close, Felix stands as a beacon of hope and positivity. His story is a powerful reminder that fame and influence can be harnessed for the greater good.
Whether he is performing for sold-out crowds or volunteering in a remote village, his sincerity remains his most defining trait.
As he moves into 2026, fans can expect Felix to continue his dual journey of musical excellence and humanitarian leadership, forever leaving an indelible mark on the world through his “heart of gold.”
