BTS’s Full-Lineup Return Confirmed; Group to Reunite on June 21 After Jimin, Jung Kook Finish Service and SUGA Completes Alternative Duty

BTS’s full-lineup return has been officially confirmed. Jimin and Jung Kook completed their military service on June 11, and SUGA finished his alternative duty on June 21, allowing all seven members of the group to return. The release of Jimin and Jung Kook from military service brought great joy to fans. Fans from around the world gathered around HYBE’s headquarters in Yongsan, Seoul, to celebrate their return. This month holds special significance for BTS. June 13 marks the group’s 12th anniversary, followed two days later by Jimin and Jung Kook’s discharge, and then SUGA’s completion of his service on June 21, leading to their full reunion. BTS’s return is also boosting Seoul’s tourism industry. A phenomenon known as “BTS pilgrimage” has emerged, as fans visit locations associated with the group’s early days. Dormitories where they stayed during training and restaurants they frequently frequented have become popular pilgrimage spots. Visits to areas such as Yongsan and Myeongdong have surged sharply. HYBE’s headquarters is located in Yongsan, while Myeongdong is filled with stores selling K-POP-related products. Convenience stores and cafes in these areas are experiencing a sharp increase in sales. One convenience store employee said, “We usually record around 3 million won in daily sales, but on June 13 alone, we sold 12 million won. Even with two employees at the counter, the lines were extremely long.” This convenience store displayed Jung Kook’s photo outside. A nearby cafe owner added, “Fans are renting out cafes to hold discharge celebration events, and it’s much busier than when the members were active.” Restaurants are also benefiting greatly. Camila, a 22-year-old fan from Brazil who is a big fan of Jimin, said she plans to eat samgyetang at his favorite restaurant tonight to join in the celebrations for their discharge. The popularity of BTS pilgrimages is evident on China’s social media platform Rednote as well. As of June 13, more than 3,000 posts were uploaded under the theme “Essential BTS Pilgrimage Guide for Seoul ARMY.” Since their debut in 2013 with “No More Dream,” BTS has expanded K-POP’s global influence over 12 years. With their intense lyrics, outstanding singing skills, and sophisticated dances, they have built a massive fan base worldwide and elevated the status of the entire K-POP industry. Overcoming what is often referred to as the “7-year curse” faced by most groups in the music industry to reach their 12th anniversary is considered a remarkable achievement in the sector. Their full-lineup return is giving new hope to ARMY, BTS’s fandom name, around the world. There is growing interest in seeing what future activities and music the group will bring to the K-POP market.