BTS' V becomes 'plant parent' before 'Arirang' comeback

BTS member V / Captured from HYBE LABEL's YouTube channel

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While busy preparing for BTS' upcoming comeback, V has shared an unexpected update on his life: He has become a "plant parent."

On Sunday, V posted a video on social media with the caption, “Between preparing for the album and raising plants, I’ve been running around like crazy.” He also used the word “sikrini,” a Korean portmanteau combining “plant” and “child” to describe a novice at growing plants.

In the video, V appears in his pajamas at home, gently inspecting a potted plant. Calling himself a beginner, he examines the leaves one by one. In a previous post, he shared a photo of a withered plant with the caption “crying sikrini,” showing how deeply he has immersed himself in his new hobby.

BTS member V has immersed himself in growing plants while preparing for a comeback. Captured from V's Instagram

BTS is scheduled to make a full-group comeback on March 20 with its fifth full-length album, "Arirang." It marks the group's first album release as a complete unit in almost four years, following the completion of the members' military service. The group plans to unveil a new song at Gwanghwamun Square the day after the release.

With the comeback just two months away, V has turned to plant care. Experts suggest this may be a strategic move with mental health benefits.

Why indoor plants ease stress

Experts say caring for plants can meaningfully support mental health, especially during periods of high stress and heavy workloads.

Interacting with plants helps with emotional stability, stress relief and mental recovery. V’s dedication to his plants despite an intense comeback schedule offers a glimpse into how busy people can find ways to pause and relax.

Stress relief and emotional stability

Numerous studies show that interacting with plants lowers stress hormones and stabilizes heart rates and blood pressure. According to the U.S. health outlet Healthline, indoor plant care reduces psychological tension and promotes calmness. Simple acts like watering or wiping leaves give the brain a "micro-break" from high-tension states.

Focus recovery and mental reset

Environmental psychology explains this through “attention restoration theory,” which suggests that natural elements help restore cognitive energy. Studies show that indoor spaces with greenery can improve concentration and job satisfaction. For V, who is using significant mental energy for filming and practice, plants may function as a reset mechanism.

Creating rhythm in a busy life

Caring for plants helps form a routine. Watering at set times adds structure to a hectic schedule and reinforces a sense of self-care. In dense urban environments, indoor plants help fill the emotional void caused by limited access to nature.

Improved air quality

Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, making indoor air fresher. They also absorb fine particulate matter and harmful chemicals like formaldehyde and benzene. By naturally increasing humidity, they lower the risk of dry throat and skin common in dry indoor environments.

BTS member V posted a photo of his plant on Sunday, captioned "crying sikrini." Captured from V's Instagram

5 easy to care for plants for busy people

For those who are busy, even small acts of care can help restore an exhausted mind. Plant care is a healthy habit that brings recovery into a demanding daily routine. If you are worried about killing plants, start with these low-maintenance options:

Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

Often called “the plant that’s harder to kill than to keep alive,” the snake plant is extremely resilient. It requires water only once or twice a month and is highly effective at removing indoor pollutants, helping to create a cleaner, calmer space.

Monstera

Known for its iconic leaves, monstera adds visual comfort and can instantly give a room a refreshing, tropical atmosphere. It is relatively low maintenance, requiring water about once a week or when the topsoil feels dry.

Peace lily

This is a great choice for beginners. It clearly signals when it needs water, as its leaves droop when thirsty and perk up almost immediately after watering. The peace lily helps regulate indoor humidity, making it beneficial for respiratory health.

Peperomia

Peperomia is perfect for a desk or workspace. It requires water only once a week and takes up very little space. Placing it within your sight can ease eye strain and boost concentration, making it the ideal companion for anyone on a tight deadline.

This article from Kormedi.com, Korea’s top health care and medical portal, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.