Group BTS is officially entering a 'military hiatus,' a break due to military service obligations.
According to the music industry on December 11, RM and V are enlisting on this day, followed by Jimin and Jungkook heading to the training center the next day, on the 12th. According to their agency, Big Hit Music, all four members will be serving in active duty in the army. There will be no events with fans on the day of their enlistment.
RM, V, Jimin, and Jungkook shared their thoughts on enlistment during a live broadcast on the fan platform Weverse on the 5th. Some members also caught the attention of fans by posting pictures of their newly cut hair on personal social media accounts.
During the live broadcast, Jungkook said, "I feel relieved as I've poured everything and wrapped up everything recently." Jimin commented, "It's regrettable, but the time has come. I plan to return with a clear mind, as we have things to do once we come back."
V stated that his goal is to "develop stamina enough to perform more than a dozen concerts without getting tired," while RM affirmed, "BTS is just beginning now. We promise to return healthy, happy, and with smiles."
The members collectively assured, "We have prepared quite a lot. Enjoy it, and we will be back soon," indicating that they will release content produced in advance during their military hiatus.
BTS paused their group activities with the eldest member Jin's enlistment last December. Jin is currently serving as an instructor at the Army's 5th Infantry Division Training Center. J-Hope, who enlisted in April, is serving as an instructor in the Army's 36th Infantry Division, and Suga has been serving as a public service worker since September.
Though group activities were halted, BTS members continued to release solo albums and maintain their global influence throughout the year. Last month, at the CJ ENM-hosted music awards ceremony '2023 MAMA AWARDS,' BTS was named 'Worldwide Icon of the Year,' securing a grand prize trophy for the sixth consecutive year.
All BTS members reaffirmed their commitment to a 'complete comeback in 2025' after signing their second contract renewal with Big Hit Music in September. It remains to be seen whether they will continue to demonstrate unwavering influence and popularity after their military hiatus.
The expected discharge dates for RM, V, Jimin, and Jungkook are in June 2025, which coincides with Suga's demobilization. Jin and J-Hope, who began their military service earlier, are scheduled to be discharged in June and October of next year, respectively. Upon their return, Jin and J-Hope are expected to resume solo activities and help quench fans' thirst for BTS's 'complete' comeback.
