BTS’ J-Hope Pays Emotional Tribute to His Grandmother As He Mourns Her Passing at Tokyo ‘Arirang’ Concert; ARMY Sends Love (Watch Video)
BTS member J-Hope shared the news of his maternal grandmother’s recent passing during a moving tribute at the group’s 'ARIRANG' World Tour stop at the Tokyo Dome on April 17, 2026. Despite the personal loss, the artist chose to perform for the sold-out crowd, citing the support of his bandmates and his grandmother's pride in his career as his primary motivations.
BTS member J-Hope shared a deeply personal moment with fans during the group’s "ARIRANG" World Tour, revealing the recent passing of his maternal grandmother. The emotional tribute took place on April 17, 2026, during the first night of the group’s sold-out residency at the Tokyo Dome. Is BTS Jin Dating His ‘Don’t Say You Love Me’ MV Co-Star Shin Se Kyung? Viral Photos Spark Relationship Rumours.
J-Hope Honours His Late Grandmother at Arirang World Tour
Addressing the capacity crowd during the concert's closing remarks, J-Hope (born Jung Ho-seok) disclosed that he received the news of his grandmother’s passing shortly after arriving in Japan for the tour. Despite the personal tragedy, the rapper chose to continue with the performance, citing the support of his fellow bandmates as a source of strength.
"When I landed here, I heard the news that my maternal grandmother, who raised me, had passed away," J-Hope told the audience, visibly moved. "I was quite flustered, but I was with the members the whole time... and now with all this, I think I feel a little better."
J-Hope spoke fondly of her legacy, noting that she was a dedicated supporter of both him and the group. He expressed a bittersweet hope that she was watching the performance "from above," adding that her pride in their work made the evening's show even more meaningful to him.
J-Hope Announces the Demise of His Grandmother During Arirang Concert in Tokyo - Watch Video
BTS ARMY Sends Support and Condolences
Following the revelation, the BTS fanbase, known as ARMY, immediately mobilised to offer support. The hashtag #WeLoveYouHoseok and various messages of condolence trended globally on social media platforms as fans shared their sympathy for the artist and his family.
BTS Fans Show Support to Hobi
At the venue, the atmosphere shifted from the high-energy "Arirang" choreography to a moment of shared reflection. Many fans noted the professional strength required to perform a full setlist, which included hits like "Hooligan," "Run BTS," and "Dynamite" while navigating immediate grief.
The ARIRANG World Tour
The ARIRANG World Tour 2026 marks BTS's first major international trek following the completion of their mandatory military services in South Korea. The tour’s title and theme lean heavily into Korean cultural heritage, featuring traditional elements and a reimagined performance of the folk song "Arirang." BTS Song ‘SWIM’ Out: Bangtan Boys Navigate High Seas in Emotional ‘ARIRANG’ Comeback Track Starring Lili Reinhart (Watch Video).
While J-Hope participated in the Tokyo Dome dates, subsequent reports suggest he may take a brief period of reflection to be with his family before the tour continues. Neither BIGHIT MUSIC nor the artist has confirmed specific changes to the upcoming schedule, though the industry expects a brief window of privacy for the performer.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 20, 2026 05:58 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).