Days after popular South Korean band BTS' J-Hope tested positive for COVID-19, the group's maknae Jungkook has contracted the virus ahead of their performance at the Grammys 2022.
According to the agency BigHit Music, Jungkook tested negative on a PCR test in Korea, and he departed for the US on March 27 in preparation for the Grammys, to be held on April 3.
"After arriving in Las Vegas, he felt a slight discomfort in his throat and promptly took a rapid PCR test (COVID-19 molecular PCR test) and a standard PCR test (COVID-19 quantitative PCR test) on the afternoon of Sunday, March 27 (PT).
"While being under self-quarantine as a proactive measure, the result of both tests came back positive, and Jungkook was confirmed with COVID-19 on Monday, March 28 (PT)," BigHit Music said in a statement shared on fan community forum Weverse.
Jungkook, whose full name is Jeon Jung-kook, is currently under self-quarantine and treatment, following the guidelines of health authorities in the US.
"He is not exhibiting any symptoms other than a mild sore throat, and we will attentively monitor his health during the quarantine," the agency further said.
The participation of the 24-year-old vocalist in the future activities in the US will be determined by the local COVID-19 regulations, BigHit Music said, adding they are "actively in discussion with the awards organizer".
BigHit Music also extended sincerest apologies to ARMY, the fan club of BTS, for causing concern "despite our effort to take all necessary measures for our artists' health prior to and throughout the schedule in the United States."
"We will continue to provide support for the rapid recovery of Jungkook, placing our highest priority on the health and safety of our artists. We will also continue to fully cooperate with the requests and guidelines of healthcare authorities," the agency stated.
Earlier BTS' members Suga, RM and Jin had also contracted COVID-19.
Meanwhile, the band is expected to perform at the 2022 Grammys which will be held at the MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas.
BTS are up for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for 'Butter'.
The 64th Annual Grammy Awards will be hosted by Trevor Noah. The award ceremony will be broadcasted live on Sunday, April 3, 2022, at 8 pm ET/5 pm PT on CBS and will be available to stream live and on-demand on Paramount+.
Post their Grammys stint, the group is also set to perform at four shows at Las Vegas' Allegiant Stadium as part of their extended 'Permission to Dance On Stage' tour.
