12-6-2024 (SEOUL) Jin, the eldest member of the globally renowned K-pop sensation BTS, was officially discharged from South Korea’s army on Wednesday after fulfilling 18 months of mandatory national service, marking a significant milestone for the group as they prepare to reunite following their temporary hiatus.
The 31-year-old Jin, donning his army uniform and a black beret, appeared visibly emotional as he embraced his colleagues at a military base in Yeoncheon, Gyeonggi province, according to television footage captured at the scene.
Reports from South Korean media outlets suggest that several other members of the septet, who are currently serving in the military, applied for leave to attend this momentous occasion. Among them was the group’s leader, RM, who greeted Jin with a saxophone performance of their hit single “Dynamite,” adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
Jin’s enlistment in December 2022 marked the beginning of the group’s temporary separation, as the remaining members were required to commence their military service by December 2023. With Jin’s discharge, BTS is now one step closer to reuniting as a complete unit, which is expected to occur by 2025 once all members have fulfilled their national service obligations.
In the aftermath of his military discharge, Jin plans to kick off his post-army activities with a fan-focused event in Seoul on Thursday. The event will not only provide him with an opportunity to greet his adoring fans but will also feature an hour-long performance as part of BTS’ annual “Festa” celebration.
BTS, which debuted on June 13, 2013, has risen to become the epitome of K-pop, South Korea’s pop music industry, and one of the country’s most significant cultural exports. Their meteoric rise to global stardom has captivated audiences worldwide, and their temporary separation for national service has only heightened the anticipation for their eventual reunion.
The livestreams of Jin’s military discharge ceremony were watched by hundreds of thousands of viewers on YouTube, a testament to the unwavering dedication of the BTS ARMY, the group’s passionate fan base.
In South Korea, all able-bodied men between the ages of 18 and 28 are required to serve between 18 to 21 months in the military or social service. However, in 2020, the law was revised to allow globally recognized K-pop stars to defer their enlistment until the age of 30, a concession that enabled BTS to continue their artistic pursuits before temporarily putting their careers on hold.
