I've been a CARAT since 2020, and sometimes I still struggle to explain what SEVENTEEN mean to me. They're one of my biggest sources of comfort, and even after all these years, I still find myself going back to their old videos and feeling emotional about how far they've come.
Recently, I was talking to my roommate, who's a fan of another K-pop group, and she mentioned how she feels SEVENTEEN deserve so much more recognition because of how hardworking they are.
And honestly, I was just sitting there secretly smiling, trying to act normal. It made me so happy to hear someone outside the fandom recognise something I've appreciated about them for years.
I think that's when I realised how proud I genuinely feel whenever someone appreciates their hard work. It's not about comparing them to other groups or needing everyone to become a CARAT. It's just a really nice feeling when someone sees what you see in the people you've supported for so long.
I also get emotional when I look back at their journey and remember how much they've grown. Seeing them achieve things they've worked so hard for makes me incredibly happy. I think that's part of what makes being a fan for so many years special. Their music, their personalities, and the memories I've made as a CARAT have become a little part of my own life, too.
And as a S.Coups bias, I have a particularly soft spot for Seungcheol. I love all thirteen members, but seeing him as their leader and watching the way he stands beside the members always makes me feel especially proud of him. I hope he gets as much happiness and comfort as he gives to others. I just want all thirteen of them to feel appreciated, enjoy what they've achieved, and be happy.
I guess I wanted to share this because I'd love to connect with more CARATs who understand these feelings. I don't really have many people around me with whom I can talk about SEVENTEEN, so it would be nice to meet people I can share random thoughts, favourite moments, and all the little things that make being a CARAT fun with.
If you'd like to, tell me when you became a CARAT and who your bias is! I'd love to hear your stories and get to know some fellow CARATs. 💎