SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — It is now confirmed that all seven members of the immensely popular K-pop group BTS have fulfilled South Korea’s mandatory military service.
Suga, the last member to complete his service, was released on Wednesday, having served as a social service agent—an alternative for military service he opted for due to a shoulder injury.
This marks the official return of all seven group members from their enlistment obligations. The other six members, RM, V, Jimin, Jung Kook, Jin, and j-hope, have served in the military.
Earlier this month, RM, V, Jimin, and Jung Kook were released from their military duties. Jin, the oldest member, was discharged in June 2024, followed by j-hope in October.
BTS is anticipated to reunite later this year, and ahead of this exciting homecoming, here’s a brief overview of the group.
The Rise of BTS
Formed in June 2013 under Big Hit Entertainment—now HYBE—BTS, short for Bangtan Sonyeondan or “Bulletproof Boy Scouts,” consists of RM, Jin, Suga, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook. They debuted with the hip-hop infused single album “2 Cool 4 Skool” and gained significant popularity with their 2016 album “Wings.”
BTS achieved global success in 2017 when their single “DNA” entered the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the first Korean boy band to do so, which led to a performance at the American Music Awards and contributed to an expanding international fanbase.
Global Appeal
Recognized for their worldwide influence, BTS has been certified platinum multiple times by The Recording Industry Association of America. Their platinum records include:
- 2018’s “Mic Drop”;
- 2020’s “Map of the Soul: 7,” “Love Yourself: Answer,” and “Idol”;
- 2021’s “Be” and the summer hit “Butter”;
- Collaborations like “My Universe” with Coldplay and “Boy With Luv” featuring Halsey.
They have also garnered five Grammy nominations, marking a historic moment for a K-pop group.
Advocacy and Activism
Beyond their musical contributions, BTS has engaged in global advocacy, notably speaking at the United Nations in 2018 to promote the “Love Myself” campaign in collaboration with UNICEF, focusing on violence and bullying prevention. They also donated $1 million to the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020.
In 2022, their dual impact on music and social issues saw them invited to the White House to discuss anti-Asian hate crimes with President Joe Biden.
Military Service Debate
Under South Korea’s conscription law, all able-bodied men aged 18 to 28 are required to serve 18-21 months in the military. The law offers exemptions to certain athletes and artists who meet specific criteria, but K-pop stars like BTS do not qualify. In 2020, the Military Service Act was amended, allowing K-pop artists to postpone enlistment until age 30. Public debate ensued in 2022 regarding whether BTS should receive special exemptions, but all members decided to fulfill their service.
Solo Projects During the Break
BTS staggered their enlistments to allow members to explore solo careers. Jin released two EPs, Suga launched the album “D-Day,” RM debuted a new experimental album, and the other members also pursued individual projects. Jimin and V both released notable works in 2023 and 2024, with Jung Kook’s retro-pop album also making waves.
