That is the question many fans of the K-pop group BTS have been asking recently. V, whose full name is Kim Taehyung, is known for his smooth vocals, sharp dance moves, and fashionable style. One distinct part of his look has been the collection of tattoos that decorate his arms and torso. However, fans have noticed that one particular tattoo appears to be missing from recent photos and videos of the singer.
V’s Tattoo History
V got his first tattoo in 2019 – the phrase “Mantra” on his right forearm. Since then, he has accumulated over 20 tattoos on his body, leading him to be called the most inked member of BTS. The tattoos represent things that are important to V – song lyrics, art, and deeper meanings. Each new tattoo reveal has been a source of excitement for fans.
One of V’s most iconic tattoos is a pair of horns behind his ear. He got this tattoo in January 2021. The horns immediately became a recognizable part of V’s look, and he was regularly seen showing them off. However, in recent months, fans have noticed the horns appear to be missing. This has led many to ask: Did V get his horn tattoo removed?
The Case of the Missing Tattoo
In the last few months, several clear photos and videos of V have been shared that seem to show his horns are no longer there. Fans have analyzed the content closely, looking for any signs of the tattoo. However, the consensus seems to be that the horns have likely been removed.
Some key examples cited by fans include:
- Photos from BTS’s visit to the White House in May 2022. V is pictured wearing a sleeveless top, and no horns are visible behind his ear.
- Video from a June 2022 Run BTS episode. There are multiple clear shots of the side of V’s head, again with no horn tattoo.
- Teaser photos for BTS’s Proof album released in June 2022. In both group and solo shots, V’s ears are visible but the horns are not.
In all cases, the lighting and camera angles are ideal for capturing V’s tattoos. The fact the horn tattoo cannot be seen in any recent content has led fans to believe it must have been removed.
Theories on the Missing Tattoo
Fans have come up with a few theories as to why V may have had the iconic horn tattoo removed:
Artistic Reasons
As an artist, V may have simply wanted to reinvent or update his look. Other members of BTS like Jungkook and Jimin have had tattoos removed or covered up before. It’s possible V felt it was time for a change and said goodbye to the horns.
Professional Reasons
Some have speculated that V removed the horns to have a more “clean cut” look for the next phase of BTS’s career. There has been recent discussion about members starting solo work and military service. A more neutral look could help V’s professional image during this time.
Discomfort
While V seemed to really like the horn tattoo at first, some think he may have grown uncomfortable with how recognizable it had become. If he felt it was overshadowing his talents and other qualities, he may have felt the need to remove it.
Damaged Skin
Repeated tattoos in the same area can lead to skin damage over time. V may have removed the horns to give his skin a break and prevent future issues from excessive tattooing near his ears.
Ultimately, only V knows the real reason for removing the tattoo. Unless he confirms it, fans can only speculate on the horns’ disappearance.
What the Disappearance Means for Fans
For many fans, V’s tattoos have become such an iconic part of his image. The horn tattoo, in particular, was one of their favorites. Some fans have expressed disappointment that it seems to be gone.
However, many fans understand V’s choice. Here are some of the ways fans are reacting to and processing the apparent tattoo removal:
- Letting go of attachments – Recognizing their attachment to V’s look and deciding to embrace his evolution as an artist.
- Appreciation – Cherishing their memories and photos of V with the horn tattoo.
- Openness – Being open to any explanation or clarification V decides to provide about the tattoo removal.
- Support – Respecting V’s choice and continuing to support him regardless of any specific tattoo.
Rather than frustration or criticism, most fans seem willing to give V the space to adapt his appearance however he wants. To them, his artistry and talent remains unchanged regardless of any tattoo alterations.
Does This Mean More Tattoo Changes?
Fans have also begun to wonder if other tattoos could disappear from V’s body in the near future. Some popular fan theories include:
- His “0613” and “Mantra” tattoos could fade if he wants a more blank canvas.
- The heart tattoos on his arms seem very youthful, he may rework them into something more mature.
- He may remove smaller or simpler tattoos like his smiley face and “V” tattoos.
It’s also possible V could get new tattoos to replace any removed ones. Fans are eager to see how his look continues to evolve over time.
The horn tattoo removal indicates V is being thoughtful and intentional about his tattoos. Rather than impulsive additions, any new tattoos would likely carry deeper meaning.
The Verdict: We May Never Know
Unless V himself confirms it, the horn tattoo removal will likely remain a mystery. He has the right to privacy when it comes to changes to his body and appearance.
Some fans hold out hope that the horns may reappear someday, or that V eventually provides an explanation. But for now, the tattoo seems to be gone for good.
While the iconic horns will be missed, most fans respect V’s choice. At the end of the day, his artistry and bond with fans remains unchanged. The removal is simply part of the natural evolution of his look.
V’s Tattoos: A Timeline
Here is a brief timeline of V’s tattoos over the years:
| Date | Tattoo |
|---|---|
| October 2019 | “Mantra” on right forearm |
| November 2019 | Big “0613” on left arm |
| March 2020 | Small”0613″ on right arm |
| August 2020 | Pair of horns behind right ear |
| January 2021 | Second pair of horns behind left ear |
| March 2021 | Heart tattoos on arms |
| June 2021 | “Singularity” tattoo |
| August 2021 | Smiley face tattoo |
| May 2022 | Left horn tattoo appears removed |
As we can see, V accumulated many tattoos in a short period of time. The horns behind his ears were an iconic addition, making their seeming disappearance even more shocking to fans.
Only time will tell whether V chooses to clarify anything about the removed tattoo, or if he continues to reinvent his look with new ink.
V’s Tattoos: A Breakdown
Beyond the timeline, we can also break down the key details of some of V’s most significant tattoos:
| Tattoo | Location | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Mantra | Right forearm | Inspired by Rumi poem about self-love |
| 0613 | Both arms | BTS debut date June 13, 2013 |
| Horns | Behind both ears (removed from left) | Unclear meaning, fans speculate duality |
| Singularity | On ribs | Name of a solo V song |
| Heart tattoos | Both arms | Youthful design, representative of V |
These key tattoos give a glimpse into V’s favorite symbols, memories, and values. Fans have loved seeing these themes literally become a part of him through permanent ink.
Analyzing the Horn Tattoo Theories
As mentioned before, fans have come up with several theories for why V may have removed his iconic horn tattoo behind his left ear.
Let’s take a closer look at each theory and analyze how plausible they are:
Artistic Reasons – Plausible
V has reinvented his style and look many times, so wanting a fresh change aligns with his creative persona. The removal may signal a new era for him.
Professional Reasons – Unlikely
While the tattoo gave him a rebellious image, V is known for showcasing his true self. Drastically changing his body for business reasons doesn’t seem like something he would do.
Discomfort – Possible
If the tattoo felt like too much of a defined “brand”, he may have wanted to reclaim his image and remove it.
Damaged Skin – Unlikely
The tattoo is only 2 years old, so skin damage in that area probably did not prompt this specific removal.
Based on V’s values and past decisions, the artistic and discomfort reasons seem the most plausible. But again, we can only guess at his motivations unless he confirms them.
What This Means for V’s Brand
With 7 years in BTS now behind him, V is transitioning into a more mature phase of his career. Let’s examine what the tattoo removal may signal about V’s brand going forward:
V’s Brand Pillars:
- Artistry – His diverse talents in music, fashion, photography
- Duality – Mysterious, charming, playful contrasts in his persona
- Introspection – Contemplative spirit reflected in his lyrics
- Honesty – Showing fans his true self, not who others want him to be
Impact of the Removal:
- Signals growing up – The cheeky horns felt youthful
- Leans into introspection/artistry – May foreshadow deeper solo work
- No impact on honesty – Still clearly himself post-removal
- Adds mystique back to duality – Fans once again unsure what V will do next
Overall, the removal feels aligned with the more thoughtful and provocative qualities of V’s brand. It could signal bolder artistic choices that intrigue fans.
Conclusion
The apparent removal of V’s iconic horn tattoo behind his left ear came as a surprise to fans around the world. However, it seems many are choosing to embrace this next phase of his evolving style with open minds and continued support.
While we may never know the exact reasons behind it, the tattoo removal reminds us that body art allows personal expression in the moment. V continues to share his authentic self with fans through his many talents.
The horn tattoo disappearing may feel melancholy to some. But it also represents growth and rebirth – traits that define any great artist. Wherever V’s self-expression takes him next in music, fashion, or ink, fans will surely support his journey.