BTS’s Jimin and Jung Kook Complete 18-Month Military Service, Bringing “Full-Group Return” One Step Closer

BTS’s Jimin and Jung Kook finished their mandatory military service in South Korea on June 11. After completing 18 months of service, they held a discharge ceremony at a military facility in Yeoncheon, with thousands of fans gathering there to welcome them. Fans from around the world arrived at the ceremony site more than three hours early. Anaisha Silva, a 30-year-old hotel receptionist from Portugal, said, “I have been a BTS fan for nine years and this is the first time I’ve met them in person. BTS saved me from depression.” Rosie Tanquilo, a 64-year-old fan from the Philippines, stated, “I counted down the days until their discharge every day since they enlisted.” The overwhelming cheers from the fans caused some broadcasting stations to experience issues with satellite transmission. Jung Kook, 27, told reporters and fans, “Now that we have been discharged, I think it’s time to realize the vision we’ve always had in mind. We will prepare even more thoroughly to show you a better version of BTS.” Jimin, 29, added, “Military service was not an easy place. But I gained many meaningful memories that I will cherish for a long time. When meeting soldiers, a small act of kindness can make the world feel meaningful.” BTS began having each member serve in the military sequentially starting in 2022. With Jimin and Jung Kook’s discharge, six members have now completed their military service. The last member, SUGA, 32, is currently serving as a social service officer instead of completing regular military duty and is scheduled to be discharged on June 21. Once SUGA is discharged, BTS will be able to make a full-group comeback. Earlier, RM and V held their discharge ceremonies in Chuncheon on June 10. RM and V also promised fans, “If you wait a little longer, we will return with an amazing performance,” hinting at a full-group comeback by 2025. The seven-member group BTS announced a voluntary hiatus in 2022 when they reached the age required for mandatory military service among male idols. Each member has since completed 18 to 21 months of military service individually. In South Korea, all men aged 18 to 28 are required to serve 18 to 21 months in the military under the national defense system. HYBE, BTS’s agency, reported in 2023 that all members had signed new contracts, and industry experts expect BTS’s full-group comeback after SUGA’s discharge to have a significant impact on the global music market.