BTS Military Enlistment: RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, Jungkook May Defer Mandatory Service

RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook are in their 20s and are expected to head to the military soon. BTS has reached the superstardom status and worldwide success, so fans have been hoping for the boys to be exempted from enlisting. Unfortunately for ARMYS, BTS is not eligible for such exclusions.

Under Article 39 of the Constitution of the Republic of Korea, all able Korean males have “the duty of national defense.” The law has no exception unless they are Olympic medalists, accomplished international athletes, and other individuals. Only classical artists are exempted from the rule in the music category. With BTS being a K-pop group, it is clear that they are still obliged to complete their mandatory service.

However, the Military Manpower Administration has expressed their approval of a bill that will allow pop-cultural artists to postpone their service. If this will be officially implemented, then BTS can defer their military enlistment.

“We are currently pushing forward in revising the military service law so that outstanding pop-cultural artists can qualify for deferring their military enlistment,” the Military Manpower Administration stated.

Democratic Party of Korea's Jeon Yong Ki made a proposal last month for a revision of the law to allow outstanding pop-cultural artists to defer their military enlistment until the age of 30. After the proposal, Seo Wook, the Minister of National Defense, shared that “Reviewing the possibility of deferment could be meaningful.“

Seo Wook previously said that the public has a say to whether BTS will be obliged to enlist or not. He stated that public opinion could sway the outcome and if the ministry agrees in regards to BTS's exemption.

Exempted or not, BTS had always been ready for their mandatory military service. Since Jin is the oldest member of the Big Hit Entertainment boy group, he is the first one to be enlisted.

And during BTS’ online global press conference for their new album MAP OF THE SOUL: 7 back in February, the question regarding Jin’s military enlistment was brought up. The "Moon" singer noted that his service is a sensitive topic, but he gathered his composure to answer the inquiry.

Jin said that he believes enlisting in the military is a part of his duty. The BTS star pointed out that he is ready to serve when his country calls for him. There were speculations that Jin would be enlisting next year or before this year ends.