Amidst the splendour of Paris and the passion surrounding K-pop sensation BTS, Jin, the eldest member of the group, emerged as a central figure during the Paris Summer Olympics torch relay.
On Sunday evening, Jin undertook the prestigious role of torch-bearer near the esteemed Louvre Museum, marking a poignant occasion following his recent completion of mandatory military service in South Korea.
Jin's arrival in Paris earlier in the week, had sparked an upsurge of anticipation among fans globally. Supporters, affectionately known as the BTS ARMY, gathered in throngs along the historic streets adjacent to the Louvre, displaying heartfelt expressions of admiration and encouragement for the artist.
Supporters displayed handwritten Korean signs that read, "Welcome, Seok-jin, I Love You," "Go, Seok-jin," and "Best wishes, Seok-jin," accompanied by Korean national flags. Jin, sporting a timid smile, reciprocated the affection of his fans by waving to them, acknowledging their unwavering love and support.
The event coincided with Bastille Day, the symbiotic French national holiday commemorating the storming of the Bastille prison during the French Revolution, impregnating the evening with a sense of historical significance and cultural exchange.
Dressed in a white jersey befitting the occasion, Jin made a start on his portion of the torch relay promptly at 8pm amidst applause and chants from his devoted fans. Accompanied by a vigilant escort of law enforcement officers, Jin journeyed across Rue de Rivoli, covering a distance of approximately 200 meters before ceremonially returning the torch to the relay centre within the museum.
Each stride represented gratitude towards his admirers, whose unwavering support and enthusiasm had facilitated his participation in this momentous event.
Following his involvement in the relay, Jin conveyed his deep appreciation, stating, "I feel immensely honored to have been afforded the opportunity to partake in today's torch relay. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to ARMY and all fans whose unwavering dedication enabled me to bear the torch."
His sentiments resonated widely across social media platforms, where a plethora of photographs and videos capturing the event swiftly circulated, encapsulating the essence of an unforgettable evening.
The torch, having traversed prominent landmarks throughout Paris, starting from May 8, will continue its journey through various locales until Monday before embarking on a provincial tour across France, and reach its finale in the grand opening ceremony slated for July 26th.
Jin's pivotal role not only underscored BTS's global prominence but also underscored the group's enduring message of self-empowerment and unity resonating profoundly with millions worldwide.
As Jin embarks on new artistic endeavours, his brief yet impactful contribution to the Paris torch relay remains an important testament to the unifying power of music, cultural exchange, and the enduring bond between an artist and his eager global following.
