K-pop superstars BTS member Jungkook has tested positive for Covid-19 in Las Vegas ahead of the 64th Grammy Awards on April 3.
“We would like to provide you with some information on BTS member Jung Kook being diagnosed with Covid-19. Jungkook was tested negative on a PCR test in Korea, and he departed for the United States on Sunday, March 27 (KST) in preparation for the Grammy Awards performance,” said Big Hit Music on March 29.
It added, “After arriving in Las Vegas, he felt a slight discomfort in his throat and promptly took a rapid PCR test (Covid-19 molecular PCR test) and a standard PCR test (Covid-19 quantitative PCR test) on the afternoon of Sunday, March 27 (PT).”
“While being under self-quarantine as a proactive measure, the result of both tests came back positive, and Jung Kook was confirmed with Covid-19 on Monday, March 28 (PT) ,” the agency said.
It explained that “Jungkook has been currently under self-quarantine and treatment, following the guidelines of health authorities in the United States. He is not exhibiting any symptoms other than a mild sore throat, and we will attentively monitor his health during the quarantine.”
Regarding his participation in the Grammy Awards where BTS will perform, the agency said, “Jungkook's participation in the later schedule in the United States will be determined by the local regulations on Covid-19, while we are actively in discussion with the awards organizer.”
“We would like to extend our sincerest apologies to our fans for causing you concern despite our effort to take all necessary measures for our artists’ health prior to and throughout the schedule in the United States. We ask for your generous understanding and support from all our fans,” said Big Hit Music.
It added, “We will continue to provide support for the rapid recovery of Jung Kook, placing our highest priority on the health and safety of our artists. We will also continue to fully cooperate with the requests and guidelines of healthcare authorities.”
Except for J-Hope, the six members of BTS are now in the US for the Grammy Awards and their concert in Las Vegas.
J-Hope tested positive for Covid-19 in South Korea on March 24 and is expected to be released from self-isolation on March 30. He will join BTS in the US.
“J-Hope is planning to take part in activities scheduled to take place next month once his at-home treatment concludes,” the agency earlier said.