Muscle showdown, K-pop style? Why ARMYs and CARATs should hold back on the comparisons.
Few topics spark drama in the K-pop world as quickly as comparing two idols – and this time, it's BTS’s Taehyung and SEVENTEEN’s Mingyu in the spotlight.
Both stars recently showcased their muscular physiques and top-tier fitness, but instead of shared admiration, a heated debate erupted between ARMYs and CARATs. So what’s really going on?
Fans And The Need For Identity
For many fans, their idols are more than just musicians – they’re part of who they are and where they feel they belong, a phenomenon called "parasocial relationship."
The groups they support often feel like an extended family. So when someone else steps into the spotlight doing something similar – or worse, being perceived as "better" – it can trigger a protective instinct.
That often leads to fans “defending” their idols while casting a critical eye on others.
being a taehyung and mingyu stan is not for the weak because wdym i got these photos in just one day?!?! pic.twitter.com/iA9XZhylEE
— dani713 saw hobi and svt2 | BTS IS BACK (@dhaneeexx) June 20, 2025
Comparison As A Shortcut
Comparing idols or groups is often a quick way to boost one’s sense of loyalty and pride in their fanbase.
“Our Taehyung is better,” or “Mingyu is the real fitness king” – for some, these kinds of statements feel like small victories in an ongoing fan war.
But what gets lost in all of this: every artist has their own unique style, background, and personality.
Social Media As An Accelerator
Digital platforms only add fuel to the fire. Comments, likes, and retweets can escalate into full-blown storms in no time.
And while idols often take things lightly, fans tend to take everything much more personally.
The result? Heated arguments that ultimately help no one.
Let’s Celebrate Instead
At the end of the day, Taehyung and Mingyu are just two artists working hard to make their fans happy. Instead of constantly comparing and tearing each other down, wouldn’t it be way more fun to celebrate their differences?
Each of them brings their own flair to the table – and that’s exactly what makes K-pop so exciting. So ARMYs and CARATs, let’s put the comparisons aside and support our idols without the drama.