Photo Credits: Billboard BigHit Music Hero Image: Billboard

J-Hope, the electrifying dancer, rapper, and singer-songwriter of BTS, commands the spotlight in the May 2025 issue of Billboard, marking a milestone in his post-military solo journey. The cover pictorial, shot in Los Angeles on April 7, 2025, captures J-Hope at the height of his creative independence, radiating both confidence and versatility as he continues to redefine his artistry beyond his BTS roots While specific details about the crew involved in the Billboard shoot remain under wraps, the pictorial’s polished visuals and dynamic styling reflect J-Hope’s meticulous attention to detail—a trait he’s known for, especially when it comes to his fashion and stage presentation.

Read the full article on J-Hope @ Billboard

Since the release of his debut solo album, Jack in the Box, in 2022, and the critically acclaimed EP Hope on the Street, Vol. 1 in 2024, J-Hope has steadily built a reputation as a solo force. His recent collaborations with global stars like Miguel, Don Toliver, and Pharrell Williams have further expanded his musical palette, signaling an artist unafraid to experiment and grow. This year, J-Hope made history as the first Korean male solo artist to headline a stadium in the United States, performing at Los Angeles’ BMO Stadium—a landmark achievement that underscores his international appeal.

Currently, J-Hope is captivating audiences worldwide with his “Hope on the Stage” World Tour, which began in Seoul and spans 15 cities across North America and Asia. Highlights include a sold-out show in Manila, where fans organized elaborate tributes, and an upcoming concert in Osaka on May 31 that will be streamed live to cinemas globally.  The tour’s production, featuring elaborate stage designs, choreography, and visual storytelling, is a testament to J-Hope’s hands-on involvement and his desire to deliver an authentic, uplifting experience to fans everywhere.

In his exclusive Billboard interview, J-Hope reflected on the surreal honor of gracing the magazine’s cover as a soloist, recalling how Billboard once felt like a distant dream during his youth. Now, with his music and message resonating on a global scale, he hopes to inspire others just as he was inspired by artists before him. “I aspire to evolve into an artist who brings light and encouragement to everyone I encounter,” he shared, emphasizing his commitment to spreading genuine positivity through his work.

Looking ahead, J-Hope is already teasing new music and more international projects. With a new album in the works and the promise of further musical explorations, he assures fans that this is “just the start” of his next chapter.  As BTS’s reunion approaches in 2026, J-Hope’s journey stands as a powerful example of growth, resilience, and the enduring impact of hope—both on and off the stage.

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