BTS members will serve in the military; fans promise to wait

The four remaining members of the group will begin their 18-month military service this week, joining three others already serving.

A group of fans braved the rain this Monday, the 11th, to temporarily say goodbye to the band members BTS, who must perform compulsory military service for 18 months. The leader of the gang BTSknown as RMsinger Vin addition to Jimin and Jung Kook, they will enter service with the South Korean government this Tuesday the 12th.

“I think I’ll be fine, except for one thing: I won’t be able to have happy memories with you for a while, which is the hardest part,” V wrote on the Weverse platform, wishing his fans well.

RM also left his message saying that the period might be lonely, but that the 18 months would be an opportunity to get new inspiration and learn new things. Three other gang members are already serving in the military.

All South Korean men between the ages of 18 and 28 must serve in the military for approximately two years. The requirement is part of protection efforts against North Korea, which has nuclear weapons.

Since announcing a hiatus from group projects in June 2022, the members of BTS have been pursuing solo projects before starting their military service. Jin, 30, the oldest member, joined the army last December, followed by J-hope in April and Suga in August.

The band’s global success has sparked a debate over whether K-pop artists should be allowed to serve for a shorter term, a privilege granted to Olympic and Asian Games medalists. Classical musicians with international results also benefit.

Fans of the group regretted the break.

“It was raining today and I was a little depressed,” said Kim Yong-sun, who runs a BTS-themed coffee shop near the band’s agency building. “I’m sad, but I think they will mature more when they enter the military and come back looking good, so I’m excited and want to wait for them,” said nursing professional Ayami Ito.

Known as ARMY, BTS’ global fan base of millions of loyal followers has helped the band support social causes. In 2020, supporters raised more than $1 million for the Black Lives Matter movement in just 25 hours.

*With information from Reuters.

Source: Terra

Earl

Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.