K-pop megastars RM and V of BTS were discharged from South Korea’s military on Tuesday, drawing cheers from hundreds of fans who gathered in Chuncheon City, some flying in from countries as far as Mexico, Brazil, and Turkey.
The two began their mandatory service in December 2023, joining fellow BTS members Jin, J-Hope, and Suga, who had already enlisted earlier. Jin and J-Hope completed their service in 2024, while Suga, serving as a social service agent, is expected to finish his term later this month.
Jimin and Jung Kook are also slated for release from military duty on Wednesday, completing the staggered enlistment timeline that began in 2022. The group is anticipated to fully reunite in 2025, marking the end of a national service chapter that temporarily paused their collective musical journey.
South Korea mandates all able-bodied men between 18 and 28 to serve in the military for 18 to 21 months. While athletes and traditional artists may receive exemptions for outstanding national representation, entertainers like BTS are not included under this rule. However, a 2020 amendment to the Military Service Act allowed prominent K-pop figures to delay service until age 30.
Despite a public push for exemptions, BTS and their agency BigHit Music confirmed that all members would fulfill their obligations, garnering both respect and admiration globally.
Swifteradio.com
