The latest news surrounding BTS has got fans feeling a mix of emotions, as four more members of the chart-topping group – Jimin, V, RM, and Jung Kook – have stepped up to fulfill their mandatory military service, joining the ongoing enlistment process. With this move, all seven members of BTS are either serving or in the process of enlisting in the South Korean military.
BIGHIT Music, BTS’ label, made a formal announcement, sharing, “We would like to inform our fans that RM, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook have initiated the military enlistment process. The artists are preparing to fulfill their military service duties. We will inform you of further updates in due course.”
The statement continued with an earnest appeal for support, stating, “We ask you for your continued love and support for RM, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook until they complete their military service and safely return. Our company will spare no efforts in providing support for our artists.”
In South Korea, military service is compulsory, typically lasting 18 months for able-bodied men before they reach the age of 28. However, a bill passed in 2020 allows individuals excelling in popular culture and art to postpone their service until the age of 30. This provision offers some flexibility for artists like BTS to balance their careers and obligations.
The process began in October 2022, with the eldest member, Jin, taking the first step as he turned 30 that year. Following suit, J-Hope and Suga commenced their military service earlier this year. The band had previously announced a hiatus from group activities in June 2022, opting to pursue individual projects.
The impact of this enlistment is significant for BTS and their devoted fan base. It marks a pivotal moment as the group’s members fulfill their civic duties while also embarking on personal and solo endeavors. BIGHIT Music projects that BTS will likely resume their group activities around 2025 after their hiatus and the completion of their military service.
As fans process this news, there’s a mixture of support and longing for the group’s return. However, the dedication and understanding shown by ARMY, BTS’ fanbase, during this period of transition are a testament to the strong bond between the group and its followers. Wishing RM, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook a safe and fulfilling journey during their military service, and eagerly awaiting BTS’ eventual reunion!
