BTS's V Reveals He Has Been Experiencing Hearing Loss for Two and a Half Years

BTS member V has revealed that he has been experiencing hearing loss in one ear. The singer, whose real name is Kim Taehyung, revealed the news during a livestream on Wednesday, Aug. 12, and said that he was receiving treatment for it, according to The Korean Times, The Korean Herald and the BBC.

"If my hearing on this ear is 100, the other ear can only pick up around 30," V said, per the Korean Herald, while pointing to each ear in turn. "I'm regularly taking prescribed medicine and visiting the doctor often."

The 30-year-old singer said this was the first time he was sharing his hearing loss with fans, although he has been dealing with this problem for "about two and a half" years. He noted that he began to notice his hearing worsening while he was serving in the Korean military from Dec. 11, 2023, to June 10, 2025, per The Korean Herald.

"This actually started while I was in the military, and after it got a bit worse," he said. "Since I was surrounded by people who exercised a lot, everyone said, 'It's a matter of mental strength.' "

A Two-and-a-Half-Year Battle

V's disclosure marks the first time he has publicly addressed his hearing loss, despite having dealt with the condition for over two years. He did not share the cause of his hearing loss, but his comments suggest that the issue may have been exacerbated during his mandatory military service.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that there are four types of hearing loss, including conductive hearing loss, which is caused by something that stops sounds from getting through the outer or middle ear and can be treated with medicine. Other types include sensorineural hearing loss, which occurs when there is a problem in the way the inner ear or hearing nerve works, and mixed hearing loss, which includes both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. The CDC said there are numerous reasons why hearing loss can happen, including repeated exposure to loud sounds. According to Mayo Clinic, hearing loss can also be caused by damage to the inner ear, a ruptured eardrum, ear infection, or unusual bone growths.

V did not specify which type of hearing loss he is experiencing, but his comments suggest that he is taking proactive steps to manage his condition. "I'm going to the hospital regularly," he said, per The Korean Times, emphasizing his commitment to his health.

Military Service and Its Impact

V's military service, which began in December 2023 and ended in June 2025, appears to have played a significant role in his hearing issues. During his service, he was surrounded by others who exercised frequently, and he recalled being told that his struggles were "a matter of mental strength."

However, V has since recognized the importance of addressing his health concerns and has prioritized seeking medical care. His openness about his condition highlights the challenges that soldiers and military personnel may face, including exposure to loud noises and physical strain that can lead to long-term health issues.

The Arirang Tour Continues

Despite his health struggles, V is currently touring alongside BTS on their global Arirang Tour, which kicked off in Goyang, South Korea, in April. The tour has taken the group across Asia and North America, with upcoming dates in Chicago, Los Angeles and Toronto. BTS is scheduled to complete their Arirang tour in the Philippines in March.

The tour is a testament to V's dedication to his craft and his fans. Despite his hearing loss, he continues to perform at a high level, demonstrating the resilience that has made him one of the most beloved figures in K-pop.

A Growing Concern

Hearing loss is a growing concern for musicians and performers, many of whom are exposed to loud music and noise on a regular basis. The CDC notes that repeated exposure to loud sounds can cause permanent damage to the inner ear, leading to hearing loss. For K-pop artists like V, who are constantly performing in front of large crowds and recording in studios, the risk of hearing damage is significant.

V's decision to share his struggles with fans is a reminder of the importance of prioritizing health and seeking medical care when needed. His openness about his condition may also encourage others to take hearing health seriously and seek treatment if they experience similar symptoms.

Looking Ahead

As V continues to receive medical treatment and manage his hearing loss, his fans have expressed their support and concern for his well-being. The singer's commitment to his health and his ability to continue performing despite his challenges are a testament to his strength and resilience.

While the exact cause of his hearing loss remains unclear, V's openness about his struggles serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing health and seeking medical care when needed. His journey is a testament to his dedication to his craft and his fans.

BTS's V has revealed that he has been experiencing hearing loss in one ear for over two years, a condition he believes may have started during his military service. Despite his health challenges, he continues to tour with BTS and perform for millions of fans worldwide. His openness about his condition highlights the importance of prioritizing health and seeking medical care.