July 29, 2025 — UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television (TFT) alumna Grace Lee (MFA, ’02) brings K-pop to the silver screen this summer with the global release of Forever We Are Young, a documentary she co-directed with Patty Ahn. Opening July 30 through Trafalgar Releasing, the film spotlights the diverse, global fandom of BTS – also known as ARMY – and explores themes of identity, belonging and activism.

Lee, a Peabody Award-winning filmmaker, is joined by a team of fellow alumni of UCLA’s Film, Television and Digital Media program. Jerry Henry (MFA, ’02) served as cinematographer; Aldo Velasco (MFA, ’98) and Christina Kim (MFA, ’14) contributed as editors; and Marnie Salvani (MFA, ’21) supported the project as assistant editor. 

Together under Lee and Ahn’s direction, they’ve crafted a vibrant, emotionally resonant portrait of one of the most dynamic fan communities in pop culture history. New Musical Express called the film “a beautiful celebration of the power of fandom.”

From dance studios in Seoul to fan conventions in Texas, Forever We Are Young offers an intimate look into the creativity and resilience of BTS fans around the world. The film premiered to sold-out audiences at SXSW 2025 and has since screened at international festivals in Copenhagen, Mexico City and Los Angeles. 

“There is no BTS without ARMY and no ARMY without BTS. We’re excited for audiences to go on an emotional journey and meet a fandom that made us laugh, cry, and think. We were constantly moved by the fans’ power, resilience, creativity and humor and hope audiences will be too,” Lee and Ahn said in a joint statement.

The film not only highlights the cultural reach of BTS, but also showcases the collaborative spirit and creative excellence of UCLA TFT alumni working at the forefront of documentary storytelling.Tickets for the limited theatrical release beginning July 30, 2025 are available at www.btsarmymovie.com