BTS, the global K-pop sensation, has been taking the world by storm since their formation in 2013. However, the military service requirement in their home country, South Korea, means that all able-bodied men between the ages of 18 and 28 are required to serve for 18-21 months.
In 2022, there was a heated public debate over whether BTS members should be exempt from mandatory military service due to their contribution to the country’s economy and global influence. However, in October of the same year, BTS’ management company, Hybe Corp., announced that all seven members of the band would fulfill their duties.
In December, the oldest member of BTS, Jin, became the first member to enter the army after revoking his request to delay his conscription. On Tuesday, J-Hope, whose real name is Jung Ho-seok, joined Jin in fulfilling his duty to the country.
South Korean TV footage showed J-Hope arriving at the boot camp in Wonju, which is located about 90 kilometers east of Seoul. Dozens of fans gathered near the base to show their support, despite Big Hit Music’s plea for them to stay away due to safety concerns. Authorities mobilized soldiers and police officers to maintain order, and there were no reports of safety-related accidents.
“I love you, Army. I’ll see you again,” J-Hope said in a message to fans on the online fan platform Weverse, along with photos of himself with a military buzz cut.
Five other younger BTS members, RM, Suga, Jimin, V, and Jungkook, will join the South Korean military one by one in the coming years. This means that the world’s biggest boy band is expected to reunite a few years later.
In South Korea, there are special exemptions for athletes, classical and traditional musicians, and ballet and other dancers who have obtained top prizes in certain competitions and are assessed to have enhanced national prestige. However, K-pop stars and other entertainers aren’t subject to such privileges, causing an intense domestic debate over whether the law should be amended to expand exemptions to entertainers like BTS members.
Exemptions or dodging military duties are a highly sensitive issue in South Korea, as the draft forces young men to suspend their studies or professional careers. Despite the debates, BTS has decided to fulfill their duties, showing their commitment to the country that has supported their success.
For the time being, each member of BTS will focus on individual activities scheduled around their military service plans. While the band will undoubtedly be missed by their fans during their hiatus, their dedication to serving their country is admirable and will only strengthen their bond with their supporters.
