Is the BTS x James Jean: Seven Phases Exhibition in Manila Worth It?
Written By: Erica Luna
The BTS x James Jean: Seven Phases Exhibition costs P 800.00 if you walk in. Here’s what you need to know so you can decide if it’s worth your time and money.
“Do you know BTS?” Unless you are living under a rock, you probably heard and seen everyone talk about them. And if you are a BTS ARMY, you are probably curious if the ~trending~ BTS x James Jean: Seven Phases Exhibition is worth the hype. We compiled some facts and tips for you so you (and your wallet) are ready if you decide to drop by:
~ Spoiler alert: This article contains photos inside the exhibit, as provided by Nice Entertainment. ~
What is it?
This 1,900-square-meter pop-up museum in SM Megamall highlights the illustrations, totems, and paintings of the Taiwanese-American visual artist James Jean’s collaboration with BTS. Hybe Insight, Hybe’s exhibition brand, and Nice Entertainment, a Philippines-based production company, worked together to bring this exclusive exhibition to Manila.
Where: SM Megamall Building A, 4th floor (in front of Coco, Racks and Tenya)
Duration: October 28 – December 3, 2023
Operating hours:
(Until November 12) 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
(Starting November 13) 11:10 AM – 8:50 PM
How much is it?
P 800.00 if you purchase via SM Ticket outlets. You can also buy tickets at the entrance.
P 860.00 if you purchase online
What will I see/ experience inside?
The exhibition is divided into three zones:
James Jean Zone
In this room, the knowledgeable Filipino staff will walk you through the story behind each artwork – from the conception and the initial illustrations to the final product. While James Jean himself and a lot of people have already posted the art on social media, seeing the masterpieces in real life can be a memorable experience. Visitors are now allowed to take photos and videos in this area.
Photo posted on https://twitter.com/BTS_twt/status/1424642139913293824
This painting is inspired by a line in their song, “Truth Untold,” “Bloomed in a garden of loneliness, a flower that resembles you.”
Moonchild represents BTS leader, RM.
The Moonchild Totem, also representing RM, was created using a wood panel.
BTS Asset Zone
If you want to see iconic magazine covers (Billboard and Time), awards (Billboard Music Awards, MTV Music Awards), certificates (Guinness Book of World Records), CDs of BTS, and other personal memorabilia, then, you will love this zone. You will also see up close the unwashed music video outfits for “Permission to Dance” and “Butter.” The custom stage wear by Dior for their “Mic Drop” performance during the Love Yourself, Speak Yourself World Tour is also on display. Unfortunately, no photos and videos will be allowed in this space.
The “Permission to Dance” music video was released last July 9, 2021.
The music video for “Butter” was released last May 21, 2021.
The “Mic Drop” custom stage wear was designed by Kim Jones and Dior for the Love Yourself, Speak Yourself World Tour in 2018 – 2019.
Relive the winning moments of BTS with the awards and recognitions from Billboard Music Awards, MTV Music Awards certificates, and Guinness Book of World Records.
BTS x James Jean MD Zone
End your visit by taking countless photos and videos in this room. You are also encouraged to write on the big black walls. Hybe will be compiling the messages and will show them to BTS!
This is also where the ~budol~ area is. Some of the merch here is already sold out on Weverse. So now is your chance to get one for yourself!
Here are some of our top picks:
- Seven Phases Sticker Set – P 1,340.00
- 2022 PTD Tour Message Photo Cards – P 1,095.00
- Dalmajung Night Flip Photo – P 950.00
- Hybe Insight’s BTS Photocard Set – P 1,595.00
- 2022 BTS Exhibition: Proof Lucky Draw – P 750.00
Why you should visit?
As an ARMY or an art enthusiast, you’ll get your money’s worth during this one-hour tour. The artwork and personal memorabilia of BTS were first showcased at Hybe Insight in Seoul in May 2021. Recognizing that not everyone could travel to South Korea, Hybe decided to share the experience with fans by launching a world tour for the exhibit. It kicked off in Frankfurt, Germany, and Manila is its second stop before heading to its third destination, Singapore. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Filipinos to see these exclusive items up close and understand the story behind the displays.
Here are some additional tips:
- A lot of people are recommending that you purchase your tickets on-site, as some are not familiar with the online purchasing process. All you need to do is to approach the reception area.
- Fall in line and listen to the instructions from the guides.
- Do not touch the artwork.
- Make sure that you charge your phone, bring your power bank, and prepare your poses! While the tour can be done in an hour, your photos and videos will be with you longer.
- You can check out this list of merchandise so browse what’s available in advance. The staff will also hand out a breakdown and prices of the products upon registration.
For a sneak peek of our experience, you can also watch the Instagram and Tiktok videos that we took during our visit.
To get more information about the exhibit and for updates on the schedule, you can check Nice Entertainment’s social media pages:
Facebook: Nice Entertainment
Twitter: @officialniceent
Instagram: @officialniceent
