Jin is back with “Echo” — A new album, solo tour, and dreams of Bruno Mars


The BTS vocalist reveals his artistic evolution (and love for puppies) in a warm, candid interview.

Jin has officially made his return — and he’s doing it with charm, puppies, and a heartfelt connection to music. In a new BuzzFeed Puppy Interview, the BTS star opened up about his freshly released mini-album Echo, the inspirations behind it, his first-ever solo tour, and his admiration for none other than Bruno Mars.

“I’ve only met him briefly, but I’d really love to collaborate with him someday. It’d be so much fun — I’m a huge fan,” Jin said, all while cuddling a few adorable dogs. He even shared that before his debut with BTS, he used to practice singing to Bruno Mars’ hit “Just The Way You Are.”

A Personal Project with a Big Sound

Released on May 16, Echo features seven tracks that showcase a more mature and reflective side of Jin’s artistry. The tracklist includes: “Don’t Say You Love Me,” “Nothing Without Your Love,” “Loser” (featuring YENA), “Rope It,” “With the Clouds,” “Background,” and “To Me, Today.” Described as a deeply personal collection, the album paints vivid emotional portraits of everyday life with honesty and warmth.

Post-Military, Post-Happy, Fully Committed

Echo marks Jin’s first major project since completing his mandatory military service in South Korea — and comes just six months after his debut solo EP Happy, which impressively peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard 200.

According to his label, the album “leans into a powerful band-driven sound and highlights Jin’s vocal range across various moods and styles.” It's a clear declaration of independence and growth — and a promise that this isn’t a one-off solo detour. Jin is here to stay.

With a solo tour in the works and a creative path that keeps expanding, one thing is certain: Jin’s echo is just beginning to be heard.