BTS Commences Military Service: Amidst their ongoing hiatus, the popular South Korean boy band BTS is witnessing four more members initiate their compulsory military service, bringing the total to seven either actively serving or in the enlistment process.
BIGHIT Music, the band’s music label, released a statement, stating, “We would like to inform our fans that RM, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook have initiated the military enlistment process.” The artists are gearing up to fulfill their military duties, with updates promised in due course.
The statement appealed to fans for continued support and love for RM, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook throughout their military service, emphasizing the label’s commitment to providing unwavering support for the artists.
In South Korea, military service is mandatory for almost all able-bodied men, requiring 18 months of service by the age of 28. A 2020 bill allows pop stars excelling in popular culture and art to defer their service until the age of 30.
The label had previously announced in October 2022 that band members would undertake military service, with Jin, the oldest member, being the first to begin the process. Jin, turning 30 in 2022, led to a break from group musical activities as the band pursued solo projects, as declared in June of that year.
J-Hope and Suga enlisted earlier in the year, and the expectation is for BTS to regroup around 2025, according to BIGHIT Music. The label expressed a conscientious consideration of the country’s needs and the health of the young men in determining the timing for the band’s military service.
BTS, formed in 2013 with members RM, Jin, V, J-Hope, Suga, Jimin, and Jungkook, has achieved global fame, boasting number one singles in over 100 countries. In 2022, BTS ranked as the 5th most streamed artist globally on Spotify and the most streamed K-pop artist.
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Our Reader’s Queries
When did BTS start their military service?
BTS’ RM, also known as Kim Namjoon, began his military service on December 11, 2023. The remaining members, RM, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook, have also started the enlistment process, as announced by BIGHIT Music on November 21, 2023.
Is BTS really going to military service?
After ten years together, the South Korean boy band has decided to take a hiatus. This will give each member the opportunity to pursue their solo careers. As per South Korean law, all seven members will also be enlisting in the military.
How long will BTS stay in the military?
Seoul and Tokyo – On December 11, K-pop sensation BTS’s four remaining members are set to start their 18-month military service in South Korea this week. Three of their group mates are already serving. Despite the hiatus, loyal fans have vowed to patiently await the group’s return to the stage in 2025.
What are the requirements for BTS military?
Four of the K-pop group BTS are preparing to fulfill their mandatory military service in South Korea. Jimin, Jungkook, RM, and V will spend 18 to 21 months serving in the military, as required by law for all adult male citizens. Despite this break, they plan to reunite after their service to continue creating more music hits, according to NBC News.