How to Start Your BTS Merch Collection During Their Military Hiatus

BTS is currently on hiatus for military service. This period is actually a good time to start a collection. You can plan, research, and build your collection without the rush of constant new releases. This guide explains how.

Think of this time as a collecting season. Your goal is to build a collection you love. It should reflect your personal connection to the music.

First, Set Your Focus and Budget

You need a plan. Trying to collect everything is expensive and overwhelming.

Ask yourself:

• What era of BTS do I love the most?
• Do I want to focus on one member?
• Do I prefer wearable merch, display items, or albums?
• How much can I spend monthly or yearly?

Set a clear budget and stick to it. This is the most important rule for collecting.

What to Collect During the Hiatus: A Strategic Guide

With no new group albums, focus on existing categories. This table shows smart focuses for now.

Collection Focus	What It Includes	Why It’s a Good Hiatus Strategy
Past Albums & Versions	Older albums, special editions (like LY:Answer, MOTS:7, BE), and different versions.	Prices are stable. You have time to find the specific versions you want from a trusted kpop store.
Solo Member Projects	Official solo albums, merch, and collaborations from Jin, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook.	Supports individual members. Expands your collection’s scope during the group hiatus.
BT21 & Character Goods	Plushies, figures, and accessories from the BTS-created characters.	Less time-sensitive. Great for adult collectors who want playful, display-friendly BTS merch.
Lightsticks & Concert DVDs	ARMY Bombs (old and new versions) and official concert DVDs/Blu-rays.	Relive past concerts. A lightstick is a central display piece for any fan.
Display-Oriented Items	Premium photocards in frames, official posters, art prints, and sculptures.	Focuses on aesthetics. Build a collection that enhances your space, not just fills it.

Start with one category. Master it before moving to another.

Where to Find and Buy BTS Merch Now

The market is still active. You just need to know where to look.

1. Official and Trusted Retailers

Use established online stores that specialize in official goods. They are reliable for in-print items. A BTS Merch store like Aidolhouse.com is a good option for collectors who want quality items for display.

2. The Secondhand Market

This is key for older, sold-out items.

• Platforms: Look on Instagram (#wtsbts), Twitter, Reddit (r/bangtan), and eBay.
• Be Smart: Always check seller reviews. Ask for detailed photos of the item. Use secure payment methods.

3. Fan-Made and Artist Goods

Many talented artists sell BTS-inspired items. This includes art prints, custom pins, and jewelry. These pieces are unique. They make your collection personal.

How to Display Your Collection as an Adult

A good display shows off what you love. It turns items into a curated showcase.

• Use Shelving: IKEA Detolf or Billy bookcases are popular. They keep dust off and let you arrange items.
• Frame Your Favorites: Put prized photocards or album covers in simple frames. It looks clean and intentional.
• Rotate Items: Don’t display everything at once. Switch items every few months. This keeps your space fresh.
• Group by Theme: Put all BT21 items together. Or make a shelf for a specific album era.

FAQs for New Collectors

Is it okay to buy fan-made items?

Yes. Fan-made art and items are a big part of fan culture. They support independent artists. They are not official, but they are great for personal collections.

How do I know if an item is official?

Official merch has a certain quality. Stitching, colors, and prints are clean. Buy from sources that state “100% official.” If the price seems too low, it might be a fake.

What’s the first item I should buy?

Start with your favorite album. Or choose a BT21 character plush. Pick one thing that makes you happy. Go from there.

Will old items be cheaper now?

Not always. Rare items may keep their value or increase. But you have more time to search for a good deal without new releases competing for your budget.

Can I collect Blackpink merch too?

Of course. Many fans collect multiple groups. A store that offers a wide range, including Blackpink merch, lets you explore different styles.

A Final Thought

Collecting is a personal journey. The hiatus is your chance to build thoughtfully.

Focus on items that have meaning to you. Build a display you enjoy looking at every day. Enjoy the process of hunting for special pieces.

Your collection is a celebration of BTS’s legacy. Take your time and make it your own.