BTS Completes Military Service, Ready for Spectacular Comeback
K-pop celebrities opt out of their military service obligations.
Get ready, fans! BTS members RM and V, the dynamic K-pop titans, have wrapped up their mandatory military service in South Korea, paving the way for a massive comeback! 🎉
The iconic duo officially shook off their soldier salutes in Chuncheon City on Tuesday morning, receiving thunderous cheers from adoring fans from every corner of the globe. From Mexico, Turkey, and Brazil, some fans journeyed quite a distance to witness this unforgettable moment. 🌐
Back in December 2023, RM and V joined their fellow bandmates Jin, J-Hope, and Suga in their military duties. Jin was the first of the group to complete his service in June 2024, followed by J-Hope in October of the same year.
By Wednesday, Jimin and Jungkook will bring their military careers to a close. Suga, handling "social service work" due to health concerns, is expected to complete his term later in June this year. With the whole gang back together, BTS is planning a reunion later in 2025 - a moment eagerly anticipated by their global fan base! 💃
No Exception for Korean Pop Stars
South Korea's military service is mandatory for all able-bodied males aged 18-28, lasting roughly between 18-21 months. This serves to maintain the country's defense readiness amid ongoing North Korea tensions. While top athletes, classical musicians, or dancers may be exempt from service under certain conditions, there's no such loophole for K-pop stars like BTS.
However, in 2022, a public debate unfolded concerning possible special regulations for BTS, only to be squashed by the group's management's official statement that all members would serve their duty. Earlier, a law change allowed for a delay in service for "culturally significant artists" until the age of 30, but unfortunately, this did not apply to BTS.
Since their formation in 2013, BTS has dominated the music scene. Album hits "Love Yourself," "Map of the Soul," and "BE" climbed international charts and played a major role in establishing K-pop as a force to be reckoned with globally. BTS was the first South Korean group to participate in the Grammy Awards and was invited by the United Nations to discuss self-love, youth, and social responsibility. Their success beyond Western mainstream standards serves as an inspirational example for the music industry. 🚀
Despite their global success, BTS, including its members RM and V, had to fulfill their military duties, just like any other able-bodied male in South Korea. Caught up in the worldwide excitement for their comeback, it's hard to believe that they will soon be engrossed in social-media updates, entertainment shows, and music once more, as theyiliactively engage with their global fan base after completing their military service.
