Fans celebrate as BTS stars Jimin, Jung Kook end mandatory South Korea military service

Hundreds of fans gathered in the early morning hours to catch a glimpse of K-pop superstars Jimin and Jung Kook, the latest members of BTS to be discharged from South Korea’s mandatory military service. The pair, clad in their military uniforms, saluted and addressed the eager fans who had assembled to see them after their discharge.

Jung Kook expressed his gratitude to the journalists and fans who had traveled to witness his and Jimin’s return. He acknowledged the surreal experience of being back in the spotlight after such a long time. “Actually, it’s been so long since I’ve been in front of cameras, and I didn’t even put on makeup, so I’m a bit embarrassed,” he confessed. “I don’t know what to say.”

The duo enlisted in December 2023, following in the footsteps of RM and V, who were discharged the day before. Another member, Suga, is set to be released later this month. Dozens of devoted fans waited in Yeoncheon to welcome Jimin and Jung Kook at the end of their military service.

Supporters from around the world made the journey to the public sports ground where the meet-and-greet took place. The event was relocated from the military base’s gate for safety reasons. Colourful buses adorned with BTS members’ faces lined the streets, while balloons in the band’s signature colors floated above. A food truck served complimentary coffee and water, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

Despite the band’s label discouraging attendance due to safety concerns, many fans donned masks and showed up to show their support. One dedicated fan, Anaesi from Portugal, revealed that she had embarked on a 20-hour journey to Yeoncheon, near the border with North Korea, just to see BTS. She credited the group with helping her through a dark period in her life, describing them as her “angel.” Anaesi proudly displayed a vibrant tattoo on her arm, featuring the group’s logo and members’ names.

V, who was discharged the day before, thanked fans for their patience and hinted at a spectacular comeback for the band. “If you can just wait a little bit longer, we will return with a really amazing performance,” he promised.

The seven members of BTS are expected to reunite as a group in 2025 after completing their military service. Six members served in the army, while Suga is fulfilling his duty as a social service agent. Jin, the oldest member, was discharged in June 2024, and J-Hope completed his service in October.

In South Korea, all able-bodied men aged 18 to 28 are required to serve 18-21 months in the military as part of a conscription system aimed at deterring aggression from North Korea. While certain individuals, such as athletes and musicians, can receive exemptions, K-pop stars are not eligible for special treatment. However, BTS postponed their service until age 30 following a revision of the Military Service Act in 2020.

The decision sparked debates in 2022 over whether BTS members should be granted exemptions, but ultimately, the group’s management agency confirmed that all seven members would fulfill their duties. The emotional scene in Yeoncheon as fans from around the world gathered to welcome Jimin and Jung Kook back from their military service underscored the deep connection between BTS and their global fan base.