The opening moments of *Jung Kook: I Am Still*, a new documentary currently playing in theaters, feature a series of baby photographs of the eponymous artist and main vocalist of BTS. We see Jungkook, in a white suit and striped bow tie, holding a stuffed toy in a family portrait. Then, there’s a young Jungkook sitting cross-legged in a folding chair, smiling for the camera. In a rapid sequence, the snapshots fast-forward through time, showcasing his growth from a baby to a teenage trainee, a freshly debuted K-pop star, and finally, a global pop superstar.
*Jung Kook: I Am Still* is the latest documentary project from HYBE, the South Korean entertainment company built upon the success of BTS. The film follows Jungkook’s eight-month journey as a solo artist, chronicling the recording of his first solo album, *Golden*, and his global performances, culminating in his enlistment in the South Korean military to complete his mandatory service. This period marked a significant shift for the young star as he began to explore his identity and career outside the confines of BTS.
The film unfolds as a series of intimate snapshots and reflections, like an atmospheric video scrapbook assembled by the artist himself. It allows fans to witness Jungkook’s solo journey, from recording ‘Seven’ and performing it at the GMA Summer Concert Series before a summer downpour to shooting the music video for ‘Standing Next to You’ in Budapest, leading up to his triumphant live performance at Times Square.
The documentary showcases Jungkook’s sheer dedication to his craft, a dedication that has never wavered in the past decade. He performs on the road even while battling a bad cold, downing cough syrup backstage and tirelessly re-recording without a single complaint. He’s constantly practicing, singing to himself in the car between rehearsals and interviews, his face illuminated by the glow of his phone.
However, it’s the quieter moments that truly resonate. Watching Jungkook munch on a breakfast sandwich in his hotel room, wriggling his socks into place. The film interweaves these intimate moments with interviews with his collaborators, including producer Pdogg and HYBE America’s executive creator Son Sungdeuk, alongside Jungkook’s own reflections. He speaks about his desire to be acknowledged by the world not just as a member of BTS, a group that brings him immense pride and joy, but also as a solo artist and an individual.
*I Am Still* concludes after Jungkook’s hairstylist shaves his head, just before his enlistment. The stylist can’t hold back tears as he finishes. Yet, Jungkook remains triumphant, smiling brightly, his gaze fixed on the future. He seems to be promising his fans that his journey is only just beginning.
*Jung Kook: I Am Still* is screening in theaters worldwide for a limited time. For more information, visit: https://jungkook-iamstill.com/
