As the world eagerly awaits BTS SUGA’s official military discharge on June 21, 2025, a deeply moving piece of writing by one of his closest collaborators has begun to capture hearts. On June 15, an excerpt from El Capitxn’s upcoming essay collection We’re Still in the Interlude began circulating online, offering a rare and intimate glimpse into the emotional journey of both the author and BTS’ Min Yoongi. More than just a reflection on music, the essay unveils a bond rooted in healing, second chances, and unwavering friendship.
El Capitxn, born Jang Yi Jung, first stepped into the limelight as the main vocalist of K-pop boy group HISTORY. Following the group’s disbandment in 2017, he found himself adrift—no longer an idol, not yet a producer. The shift led to a period of emotional numbness and self-doubt. In the essay, he describes this chapter of his life as one of deep isolation, where even music—the thing he once loved most—couldn’t bring him comfort. It wasn’t until he adopted the name El Capitxn and slowly transitioned into songwriting and producing that things began to change, though even then, it felt like he was merely going through the motions.
That changed when SUGA reached out. Their work together on the track Snooze from SUGA’s 2023 album D-DAY marked a turning point. El Capitxn describes the song as one he wishes had existed during his darkest times—an emotional anchor that validated everything he once buried. The connection deepened further when SUGA invited him to appear on his YouTube talk show Suchwita. What seemed like a lighthearted invitation turned out to be a moment of profound healing. Through laughter, reflection, and honest conversation, El Capitxn rediscovered a part of himself he thought was gone—his voice, his vulnerability, and his dreams.
The most touching part of the essay comes when El Capitxn recalls a quiet promise from SUGA. Urging him to sing again, Yoongi offered not just encouragement but action: “Fix your throat first. I’ll cover any costs.” It wasn’t a grand gesture from a celebrity, but a simple, powerful offering from a friend. “That wasn’t BTS’ SUGA speaking,” he wrote. “It was my friend, Min Yoongi.”
Their relationship is built on deep mutual respect. El Capitxn jokes that while his biological father raised Jang Yi Jung, it was SUGA who helped shape El Capitxn. It’s this sentiment—honest, raw, and vulnerable—that’s resonating with so many fans. At a time when idols are often idolized only for their public image, this essay reminds readers of the person behind the fame: a friend who listens, encourages, and lifts others up when they’ve forgotten how to stand.
Since then, El Capitxn has found his footing as one of K-pop’s most in-demand producers. Leading the production team VENDORS, he has worked with PSY, IU, TXT, NCT, and BTS. His journey with SUGA didn’t end with the studio. He joined the Agust D TOUR D-DAY as a DJ, supporting his friend both on and off stage.
The full essay collection, We’re Still in the Interlude, is set for release on June 23, 2025. But even from this one excerpt, it’s clear the impact of Min Yoongi on the lives of those around him runs deeper than the music. It’s a legacy of compassion, patience, and quiet strength—one that continues to unfold, even as fans count down to his return.
