Editorial · Updated September 2026
BT21 has 8 official characters, each created by a BTS member in collaboration with LINE FRIENDS in 2017. While every character has devoted fans, some consistently rank higher in merch sales and global recognition. Here is every BT21 character ranked from most to least popular in 2026, with official products available on bt21shop.com.
#1 — Cooky (Jungkook)
Cooky is BT21's undisputed number one. Created by Jungkook — BTS's maknae and most streamed solo artist — this fierce pink bunny captures the duality of a soft exterior hiding enormous strength. The Cooky BT21 plush is the bestselling product on bt21shop.com, and Cooky merchandise sells out fastest during BTS-related events. If you're buying for a Jungkook fan, Cooky is the safest — and most celebrated — choice.
#2 — Chimmy (Jimin)
Chimmy, Jimin's perpetually cheerful yellow puppy, earns a firm second place. Jimin's global solo success has amplified Chimmy's reach beyond the ARMY fanbase into mainstream K-pop culture. The Chimmy collection includes plush in two sizes, cushion and keychain. Chimmy's joyful design makes it the most approachable BT21 character for new fans.
Shop the Collection
View all →
#3 — Koya (RM)
Koya — RM's perpetually drowsy blue koala — holds third place with a devoted following. RM's reputation as BTS's intellectual anchor gives Koya a distinct personality: brilliant but always on the verge of sleep. The Koya collection is especially popular for desk and bedroom decor — the Koya pillow cushion is one of the best-reviewed products on the site.
#4 — Tata (V)
Tata, V's heart-shaped alien, occupies a passionate fourth. V's immense personal fanbase keeps Tata merchandise in constant demand. The purple tones and extra-terrestrial concept give Tata a uniquely artistic identity. Browse the Tata BT21 collection for plush and keychain options.
#5 — RJ (Jin)
RJ — Jin's gentle cream alpaca — holds fifth place but remains one of the most warmly regarded BT21 characters. Jin's nurturing design translates directly into RJ's soft aesthetic. The RJ BT21 plush is a top gifting choice for all ages.
#6 — Shooky (Suga)
Shooky — Suga's rebellious cookie — commands a cult following. The defiant energy mirrors Suga's sharp personality. The Shooky collection performs particularly well during Suga/Agust D release cycles.
#7 — Mang (J-Hope)
Mang, J-Hope's masked horse, earns seventh place but maintains a devoted fanbase. The mystery of what lies beneath Mang's mask is a beloved ARMY inside joke. The Mang BT21 collection is ideal for fans who love a character with depth.
#8 — Van (All Members)
Van ranks eighth — but this placement requires an asterisk. Van is the only BT21 character created collectively by all seven BTS members as the universe's guardian robot. For serious collectors, the Van BT21 collection is essential. Van is the most unique collectible in the entire BT21 range.
How to Start or Grow Your BT21 Collection
The most common entry point is your bias's character. For a full collection, the plush format (from €34.90) is the best starting point, followed by cushions and keychains. All 8 BT21 characters are available across all formats on bt21shop.com — officially licensed by LINE FRIENDS, with EU-wide shipping and free delivery on orders over €50.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the most popular BT21 character?
Cooky, created by Jungkook of BTS, is consistently the most popular BT21 character globally in terms of merchandise sales and fan engagement. Chimmy (Jimin) and Koya (RM) follow in second and third place in 2026.
Which BT21 character is the rarest?
Van is the most collector-worthy BT21 character. Created by all seven BTS members together rather than by one individual, Van limited edition merchandise is typically harder to find and commands high interest among serious collectors.
Who created the BT21 characters?
All 8 BT21 characters were designed by BTS members in 2017 in collaboration with LINE FRIENDS: Cooky (Jungkook), Chimmy (Jimin), Koya (RM), Tata (V), RJ (Jin), Shooky (Suga), Mang (J-Hope), and Van (all seven together).
What is the best BT21 character for a gift?
The best BT21 gift depends on the recipient's BTS bias. Cooky is best for Jungkook fans, Chimmy for Jimin fans, Koya for RM fans. If unknown, Cooky and Chimmy are the safest universally recognised choices.
Ready to start your BT21 collection? Every character is available on bt21shop.com — officially licensed by LINE FRIENDS, with free shipping on orders over €50. Browse the full BT21 collection today.
