BTS' V Says He Is Receiving Treatment for Hearing Loss

TL;DR V said during an August 12 livestream that hearing in his right ear had declined over about two and a half years and that he now receives treatment.

BTS member V said during an August 12 Weverse livestream that he has experienced hearing loss in his right ear for about two and a half years. It was the first time he had discussed the issue publicly with fans, according to BBC News and NME.

V described the difference by saying that if the hearing in his left ear were 100, the right would be around 30. He said the problem became worse during his mandatory military service. V enlisted in 2023 and was discharged in June 2025.

He also said he initially minimized the problem after people around him described it as a matter of mental strength. V now takes prescribed medication and visits the hospital regularly. The reports do not identify a diagnosis or provide an independent medical assessment, so the figures and treatment details should be attributed to V's own account.

Jungkook joined the livestream and discussed a separate shin injury that he is managing during BTS' ARIRANG world tour. He said inflammation and possible bone damage required care so that he could complete the tour. Some performances have required him to sit for portions of the show, according to the cited reports.

The tour began in South Korea in April and continued through North America after concerts in Baltimore. Current dates extend through Latin America, Asia and Australia, with the schedule set to conclude in Bulacan on March 16, 2027. Those itinerary details provide context for the livestream; they do not establish claims about fan loyalty, brand growth or a broader narrative of perseverance.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did BTS’ V first publicly address his hearing loss?

BTS’ V publicly addressed his hearing loss during a livestream on August 12, 2026. He disclosed that he has been experiencing hearing loss in his right ear for approximately two and a half years, initially attributing it to a lack of mental strength before seeking medical help. The details were widely reported by BBC News and other media outlets.

Will BTS’ V’s hearing loss affect their upcoming tour dates?

While BTS’ V is receiving treatment for his hearing loss, the group's 'ARIRANG' world tour is proceeding as scheduled. He is reportedly managing the condition with medication and regular doctor visits. Jungkook is also managing a shin injury and has been sitting during some performances. The tour is currently set to conclude on March 16, 2027.