Books Recommended by BTS Members That Every Army Should Read
BTS isn’t just a music phenomenon—they’re cultural icons whose impact extends into literature, philosophy, psychology, and art. Known for their thoughtful lyrics and introspective artistry, BTS members frequently draw inspiration from literature. Over the years, they’ve recommended a variety of books, some of which have directly shaped their albums, music videos, and storytelling.
If you want to understand the deeper layers of BTS’s art—or simply enjoy great reads—here are books BTS has recommended or referenced, and how they’ve influenced their work.
1. Demian by Hermann Hesse
Recommended by: RM
Referenced in: WINGS album
This philosophical novel follows a young man’s inner conflict and spiritual awakening. Demian’s themes of duality, personal growth, and rebellion strongly influenced BTS’s WINGS album. The track “Blood Sweat & Tears” and the short film teasers incorporate direct imagery and concepts from the novel.
The line “The child who is not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth” echoes Demian’s core theme.
Why read it?
If you’re exploring identity, self-transformation, or philosophical fiction, this book offers powerful insights.
2. The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas by Ursula K. Le Guin
Recommended by: RM (Kim Namjoon)
Referenced in: “Spring Day”
This allegorical short story explores the moral cost of happiness in a seemingly perfect society. BTS used this as a conceptual backdrop for “Spring Day,” especially in the visuals.
The lonely child in Omelas echoes themes of isolation, sacrifice, and injustice seen in the music video.
Why read it?
It’s short but leaves you with deep questions about society, morality, and happiness.
3. Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami
Recommended by: RM
A beautiful and somber tale of young love and grief, this book resonated with RM for its raw emotional depth. While not directly referenced in a specific song, the mood and tone are reflected in RM’s solo work like “forever rain” and “seoul.”
Why read it?
Perfect for fans of introspective, emotionally rich fiction.
4. Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami
Recommended by: RM
Murakami’s surreal and symbolic storytelling inspired Jungkook. The novel explores destiny, metaphysics, and the subconscious—elements often mirrored in BTS’s storytelling arc, especially in their Map of the Soul era.
Why read it?
If you love dreamlike, mysterious fiction with philosophical undertones, this is a must.
5. Into the Magic Shop by Dr. James R. Doty
Recommended by: RM (Kim Namjoon)
Strongly embraced by: Jungkook
Referenced in: Love Yourself: Tear and Magic Shop
This memoir blends neuroscience, mindfulness, and emotional healing. It inspired BTS’s fan-dedicated track “Magic Shop,” which speaks to finding inner peace and healing through connection.
Why read it?
It’s an inspiring real-life journey of overcoming trauma through heart-brain connection and meditation.
6. “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
Recommended by: Suga
This internationally renowned novel tells the story of a shepherd’s journey to fulfill his personal legend. It explores themes of destiny, dreams, and self-discovery, resonating deeply with Suga’s own artistic philosophy. The book’s message about pursuing one’s true path aligns with BTS’s continual emphasis on following your passion and purpose.
Why read it?
For a motivational and inspiring story about chasing dreams and listening to your heart.
7. Almond by Sohn Won-pyung
Recommended by: RM and Jungkook
This Korean novel tells the story of a boy with alexithymia (inability to feel emotions) and his journey of learning empathy and love. RM praised the book for its powerful message, and Jungkook mentioned it as one of his recent reads.
Why read it?
A simple but moving story about emotional growth, perfect for both young adults and adults.
8. Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka
Read by: Jin (noted in interviews.
This existential novella about identity and alienation resonates with BTS’s recurring themes of inner transformation, especially in the Map of the Soul series.
Why read it?
A haunting yet brilliant metaphor for how we change under social pressure.
9. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Recommended by: V and RM
A timeless allegory on innocence, love, and human nature, The Little Prince is beloved by V, who even quoted it during fan meetings. the book’s themes of innocence, loneliness, and love strongly align with V’s personality and aesthetic—especially in songs like Winter Bear and Inner Child.
RM has referenced its themes of loneliness and wonder in his songwriting.
Why read it?
It’s a short read but packed with emotion, reflection, and meaning—ideal for readers of any age.
10. Please Look After Mom by Kyung-sook Shin
Recommended by: RM
This award-winning Korean novel tells the story of a family searching for their missing mother, revealing hidden guilt and love. RM has praised the book for its emotional power and realism.
Why read it?
A moving exploration of motherhood, family bonds, and regret. Bring tissues.
11. The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran
Recommended by: RM
This classic collection of poetic essays on love, work, joy, and sorrow reflects RM’s philosophical nature. His lyrics often echo the same lyrical, introspective tone found in this book.
Why read it?
For deep, soulful reflections on life in poetic language.
12. 1Q84 by Haruki Murakami
Read by: RM
Another Murakami novel, 1Q84 is a genre-blending tale of love, control, and alternate realities. RM has mentioned reading it, and the story’s surreal, introspective mood aligns with much of BTS’s conceptual work.
Why read it?
It’s a long but rewarding dive into a strange and philosophical world.
13. Walden by Henry David Thoreau
Recommended by: RM
RM has mentioned Thoreau’s Walden in interviews as one of the books that shaped his love for nature and simplicity. The themes of solitude and self-reliance resonate with his personality and some of his lyrics.
Why read it?
For anyone seeking meaning in simplicity and solitude.
14. Kim Ji-young, Born 1982 by Cho Nam-joo
Recommended by: RM
A powerful feminist novel that sparked widespread discussion in Korea and beyond. RM read and praised this book for its raw portrayal of gender inequality.
Why read it?
If you’re interested in social justice, feminism, and Korean society, this book is essential.
15. Love for Imperfect Things by Haemin Sunim
Recommended by: Jin and J-Hope
This collection of essays by a Korean Buddhist teacher promotes self-love and compassion. Jin and J-Hope found comfort in its messages during stressful periods.
Why read it?
A soothing, mindful read for times when you’re feeling overwhelmed.
16. “I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki” by Baek Sehee
Recommended by: RM
RM publicly recommended this book on Weverse and in interviews.
He appreciated its raw honesty and how it articulated feelings many people (including himself) often suppress. Fans saw it as another example of RM promoting mental health awareness and emotional reflection—key themes in BTS’s music and philosophy.
It’s a memoir in the form of therapy transcripts between the author and her psychiatrist. It candidly explores dysthymia (chronic depression), everyday anxiety, and the conflict between appearing fine on the outside while struggling internally.
The title reflects that paradox beautifully: wanting to die, but also wanting comfort food like tteokbokki.
17. A Bigger Message: Conversations with David Hockney by Martin Gayford
Recommended by: RM
This insightful book features a series of conversations between art critic Martin Gayford and the legendary British artist David Hockney. It dives deep into creativity, perception, and the artist’s role in society. RM has expressed admiration for Hockney’s innovative approach to art and how this book inspired his own creative process, encouraging him to think outside the box and embrace boldness in artistic expression.
Why read it?
For anyone interested in creativity, art, and how innovation fuels personal and artistic growth.
18. The Power of Words by Dohyun Shin and Naru Yoon
Recommended by: V
This beautifully illustrated book explores how the words we choose affect our lives and relationships.
On 18th Feb, V’s caught covering his face with a book when he arrived in Gimpo Airport. As soon as the news went out, the book has been hot search for everyone. “The power of words” is a book by Dohyun Shin & Naru Yoon, to give you the lessons of speaking. Source – @BTSBooklist (twitter)
Why read it?
For anyone wanting to understand the impact of language and foster more thoughtful communication.
19. Living, Loving and Learning by Leo Buscaglia
Recommended by: J-hope
pic source: @BTSBooklist on twitter
This collection of talks and essays by the famed “doctor of love” explores human connection, joy, vulnerability, and the importance of loving openly.
J-Hope mentioned this book during a V LIVE as one that brought him comfort and made him reflect on human emotions and connections. It fits well with his hopeful, warm personality and his desire to spread positivity through BTS’s music.
Why read it?
To rediscover the beauty of being human and the power of embracing life with love and kindness.
20. Kitchen by Banana Yoshimoto
Recommended by: RM
pic source: @BTSBooklist twitter
This contemporary Japanese novel explores grief, loneliness, and the comfort of ordinary things especially cooking and food. RM has recommended this book, appreciating its quiet beauty and emotional depth. The themes of healing and solitude align closely with the reflective tone found in his solo work and BTS’s softer tracks.
Why read it?
If you enjoy quiet, introspective stories about life, love, and moving forward after loss, this book is a gem.
Why These Books Matter
BTS doesn’t just make music—they craft narratives. By reading the same books that shaped their lyrics and concepts, fans gain a deeper appreciation of BTS’s artistry. These books explore themes central to BTS: identity, loss, love, societal pressure, transformation, and healing.
Whether you’re looking for emotional depth, philosophical reflection, or just a good story, these BTS-recommended books offer a unique literary journey.
What to Do Next:
Pick Almond or Into the Magic Shop for emotional healing.
Dive into Omelas if you want to explore ethics in society.
Curious about Korean culture and society? Read Kim Ji-young, Born 1982 or Please Look After Mom.
Looking for classics? The Little Prince and Demian will never go out of style.
Read with purpose. Heal with words. Think like BTS.
Books have always been part of BTS’s journey—now let them be part of yours.
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