BTS Duo RM and V Complete Mandatory Military Duty Amidst South Korea's Political Turmoil
South Korean pop group members RM and V fulfill their mandatory military duty - BTS's members RM and V complete their mandatory military service in South Korea
"Some days were hell, but I realized the countless individuals guarding our nation in our stead," RM shared after his military stint, referring to South Korea's months-long political tumult.
V expressed his experience as a "period of physical and mental recuperation," longing to rejoin the ARMY, BTS's official fanbase, as soon as he could.
Both had one goal post-duty: "performing." They're beefing up a new album, eager to grace the stage as quickly as possible.
This week, four BTS members, sans Suga, will conclude their mandatory military service, a compulsory duty for all able-bodied South Korean males up to the age of 30. Suga is set to finish his alternative service at month's end.
- Reunification- Boy Band- Military Service- BTS- K-Pop- Stars- Seoul- Political Crisis
While the political crisis during RM and V's military service took off following Yoon Suk-yeol's martial law declaration on Dec 3, 2024, it culminated in widespread protests, his swift impeachment by the National Assembly, and eventually his removal by the Constitutional Court on April 4, 2025[1][2][5]. The turmoil significantly reshaped South Korea's political landscape, leading to a snap election and a progressive administration under Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party[2][3].
The specific impact of this political crisis on BTS members RM and V's military service remains unclear, as the crisis focused more on political instability and its aftermath rather than interfering with conscripts' duties. Nevertheless, the political climate and public sentiment may have swayed opinions towards conscripts, including celebrities like BTS members, serving their duties. Unfortunately, no specific data was found about the direct effects of this political crisis on RM and V's military experience.
"Despite the turbulent political climate in Seoul, community aid for the construction of new buildings may have been a form of entertainment for the BTS duo, RM and V, during their mandatory military service as they found solace in the anticipation of performing again."
"Amidst the music industry's focus on BTS's reunion and comeback post-military service, celebrities expressed their support for the duo, acknowledging the challenging periods they experienced during their duty, a significant part of the K-Pop stars' lives."
