Kim Taehyung, aka V of BTS, has shared the heartbreaking news of the passing of his pet dog, Yeontan.

On December 2, Taehyung announced Yeontan’s passing on Instagram. The Pomeranian had been a cherished part of Taehyung’s life since he adopted him in 2017.

He sadly revealed, "Yeontan has embarked on a long journey to the dog stars."

"Hello ARMY, are you having a warm end of the year? I’m glad the weather isn’t too cold yet!

It feels like it’s been a while since I greeted ARMY with music.

I have fond memories of preparing the duet with my beloved Hyo Shin hyung, and also the carol by Bing Crosby, whom I deeply respect, which will be released soon. Time flies, and it’s already December.

Actually, the reason I’m writing this post today is that recently, Yeontan has embarked on a long journey to the dog stars. I thought a lot about how to tell you this, but I felt it was right to share this news with ARMY, who have shown so much love for Yeontan.

I would be grateful if you could remember Yeontan and wish for his happiness even in the stars.
I hope you have a warm end of the year where you can tell your loved ones that you love them once more.

I wish ARMY to always be healthy until the day we meet again!

I love you. Thank you."

Taehyung also shared several photos and videos capturing moments with Yeontan. Over the years, he often updated ARMY on Yeontan’s life, showing the deep bond they shared.

During his 2023 guest appearance on Pixid, Taehyung revealed Yeontan's heart condition and shared that, despite undergoing multiple surgeries, the efforts had sadly been unsuccessful.

Knowing Yeontan's fragile health, Taehyung immortalized him by making him a central part of his first solo album, Layover.

Yeontan appeared on the album’s cover art, designs, photobooks, photocards, and promotional pictures, highlighting Taehyung’s profound love for his puppy.

Yeontan even made history as the first celebrity pet to feature in a music show performance and receive a personal fancam when he joined Taehyung’s debut of “Slow Dancing” on Mnet’s M Countdown.

Yeontan is also featured in the cover art of his upcoming collaboration with the late Bing Crosby "White Christmas," which he prepared last year before his military enlistment. The song will be released on December 6.

The loss of Yeontan, who has been affectionally called the 8th member of BTS,marks the end of an era for Taehyung and ARMY. Fans celebrated Yeontan and reminisced on theirfond memories about him.