Kim Taehyung, aka V of BTS, pays tribute to Hollywood's most iconic rebel.
On October 26, Vogue Japan released Taehyung's first digital cover in anticipation of the Vogue World: Hollywood 2025 event, which will take place in Los Angeles on October 26.
Vogue World: Hollywoodwill celebrate the intersection of cinema and fashion, paying tribute to iconic figures of film history. For his cover concept, Taehyung channels the spirit of James Dean, the quintessential symbol of 1950s youth rebellion and timeless “bad boy” allure.
"Inspired by Hollywood's eternal icon, James Dean... presenting a new portrait of V, that blends the essence of classic cinema with a modern edge" — Vogue Japan
In an evocative, vintage-style video accompanying the cover, Taehyung is styled in a brown leather CELINE jacket and denim. He is captured in classic cinematic scenes, including sitting atop a motorcycle and holding a vintage video camera, embodying a modern reinterpretation of Dean’s rebellious charm.
"With his one-of-a-kind deep voice, rich expressiveness, delicate facial expressions, and an unmistakable presence, V embodies both the charisma of the stage and the charm of everyday life." — Vogue Japan
In the interview, Vogue Japan spotlights Taehyung’s expanding career and evolving artistic identity. When asked about his unique strength, he revealed that he "still likes having his picture taken," a sentiment that informed the James Dean-inspired photoshoot capturing his free-spirited aura.
The article also notes that Taehyung often draws creative inspiration from films, using them to build concepts for his performances, and that he expresses himself through his hobby of "no-filter, no-processing" photography.