File photo
Doha: The youngest member of the South Korean boyband, BTS, has tested positive for Coronavirus (COVID-19), according to an announcement by Big Hit Music on Tuesday.
In a statement on the fan community platform, Weverse, Bit Hit Music stated that Jungkook "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."
It further stated that after landing in Las Vegas, Jungkook felt a slight discomfort in his throat and took a rapid PCR test as well as a standard PCR test on the afternoon of Sunday, March 27 (PT).
Jungkook was under self-quarantine as a proactive measure and both results of the test came back positive and the youngest member was confirmed Covid-19 positive on Monday, March 28 (PT).
"Jung Kook has been currently under self-quarantine and treatment, following the guidelines of health authorities in the United States," Big Hit Music stated.
The agency also affirmed that it will attentively monitor the member's health during quarantine and stated that Jungkook is not exhibiting any other symptoms other than a mild sore throat.
"Jung Kook'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," the statement said.
Big Hit Music also said: "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."
"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. Thank you," the agency said.
Jungkook is among the top trends on Twitter in Qatar as ARMYs around the globe pour in their support and encouraging messages for his speedy recovery as well as fellow member, J-Hope, who also recently tested positive with Covid-19 and is currently under quarantine in Seoul.
BTS is scheduled to perform at the 64th Annual GRAMMY Awards to be held on Sunday, April 3, 2022. The group's hit track "Butter" is also nominated for Best Pop Duo/ Group Performance.