Headline: BTS Begins Military Enlistment Process: Extended Hiatus Expected
Lead: The world’s biggest K-pop sensation, BTS, is set to face another hiatus as four members, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook, have officially started their military enlistment process. This news, confirmed by their agency BigHit Music on November 22, 2023, means that the group’s break, which began in 2022, will likely extend into 2025.
In a statement released on social media, BigHit Music said, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook have initiated the military enlistment process. The artists are preparing to fulfill their military service duties. We will inform you of further updates in due course. We ask for your continued love and support for RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook until they complete their military service and safely return.
The remaining three members of BTS, Jin, Suga, and J-Hope, have already begun their military service. Jin enlisted in December 2022, followed by J-Hope in April 2023 and Suga in September 2023. The South Korean law mandates that all able-bodied men must serve at least 18 months in the military.
Under the revised conscription law of 2020, these four BTS members were allowed to delay their conscription until the end of 2023 when they turn 30. However, they decided to start early to complete their military service by the end of 2023 or early 2024, enabling them to reunite with the group in 2025.
While certain individuals, such as athletes and Olympic medalists, have been exempted from military service in the past, this does not apply to K-pop stars like BTS.
Fans need not worry, as BTS members recently renewed their contracts with BigHit Music in September 2023, indicating their commitment to the group’s future. During their current break, each member has been focusing on their solo careers, releasing solo albums, performing concerts, and making their mark on the Billboard charts.
As BTS continues their individual growth, their dedicated fan base eagerly anticipates their eventual reunion and the continuation of their group activities in 2025.
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