Jung Kook: COVID strikes BTS 'golden maknae' just ahead of Grammys

New Delhi: BTSARMY's heart sank on Tuesday as Big Hit Music issued a statement saying BTS member Jung Kook has tested positive for Covid-19.

The main vocalist left South Korea for the US on March 27 ahead of their scheduled participation in the Grammys 2022. On his arrival in the US he tested positive on Sunday.

The news came just a week ahead of the group's Grammys performance.

Confirming the news, Big Hit Music company said in a statement, “Jung Kook 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."

“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). "

“Jung Kook has been currently under self-quarantine and treatment, following the guidelines of health authorities in the US. He is not exhibiting any symptoms other than a mild sore throat, and we will attentively monitor his health during the quarantine. "

"Jung Kook's participation in the later schedule in the US will be determined by the local regulations on Covid-19, while we are actively in discussion with the awards organizer," Big Hit 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 US. 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," Big Hit Music added.

Jung Kook flew out to the US ahead of the other band members, even as J-Hope was still recovering from Covid-19 and was set to join late.

On Monday, RM, Jin, Suga, Jimin and V were spotted at the Incheon International Airport, heading for their flight.

J-Hope had tested positive some days back. With Jung Kook also down with Covid, now all members have contracted the virus once, despite vaccination that was completed at the earliest.

The members are scheduled to perform at the Grammys on Monday (India time). (UNI)