Global sensation group BTS is temporarily stepping away from the limelight to fulfill their military duties, with a promise to return as a complete group in 2025.
Recently, Big Hit Music, BTS's agency, announced that members RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook have started the process for their military enlistment. The agency stated, "RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook have begun the procedures for their military service obligations. We will inform you about further updates as they are decided." These members are preparing to join their bandmates Jin, J-Hope, and Suga, who have already enlisted and are currently serving their military duties.
Jungkook shared his feelings about the enlistment in a heartfelt message. He said, "Part of me feels heavy, but I am also filled with warm memories of our fans, ARMY. Every moment spent with you has been the brightest time of my life. I hesitate to ask you to wait for me during my military service, as it is a long time. But I promise, once I return, I will stand on stage again, having grown even more."
If RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook enlist by December or early next year, they are expected to reunite as a complete group around mid-2025. Jin, who enlisted last December, is due to complete his service in June next year, followed by J-Hope in October, and Suga, who has been serving as a public service worker since last September, is expected to complete his service by June 2025.
Previously, BTS and their agency have continuously expressed their goal to resume full group activities in 2025. After BTS renewed their contract with HYBE, Kim Taeho, the COO of HYBE, stated, "BTS has completed renewing their exclusive contract and will continue with HYBE and Big Hit Music. In 2025, we plan to carry out a project to commemorate the 10th anniversary of BTS's most meaningful album 'HYYH'."
Furthermore, the members of BTS have repeatedly mentioned reuniting as a complete group in 2025, raising fans' expectations. Before releasing his first solo album 'Golden', Jungkook shared through the agency, "BTS, ARMY, and this 'HYYH' are inseparable words. Although the album is one reason, I believe our most beautiful and happiest moments are still ongoing. Like the other members, I think we have become stronger in many ways through our solo singles and albums. It will be amazing if BTS reunites in 2025. I am looking forward to it more than anyone else."
RM, during a live session on the fan communication platform Weverse last August, emphasized, "I know many ARMYs are waiting for our reunion in 2025." He had also mentioned during his appearance on 'Suchwita' last year, "2025 will be right after my discharge. If we can gather together as planned and carry out full group activities, it would be great. 2025 is when most members will return, and it marks the 10th anniversary of the iconic narrative 'HYYH', so I thought we might be able to do something then."
Marking their 10th anniversary since debut, BTS has set numerous records, including becoming the first K-pop act to top the US Billboard 'Hot 100'. The group, as well as through solo activities, continued to write impressive records. Especially their solo albums have all made it to the main Billboard charts, proving their immense power.
With the anticipation building for BTS's return more formidable than ever after a two-year hiatus, fans eagerly await to see what new records the group will set after completing their military service and reuniting as a complete group in 2025.
