Jin, the eldest member of the globally renowned K-pop group BTS, has completed his mandatory military service in South Korea. However, fans worldwide will need to wait until 2025 for all seven members to be reunited.
Jin, who started his 18-month service in December 2022, emerged on Wednesday from the 5th Army Infantry Division’s base in Yeoncheon, about 60km north of Seoul. He was welcomed by his bandmates J-hope, RM, V, Jungkook, and Jimin.
In a heartwarming scene, Jin saluted outside the camp gates as RM played BTS’s hit song “Dynamite” on a saxophone. The band members then exchanged hugs and presented Jin with a large bouquet of flowers.
Although fans were advised not to visit the camp, colorful banners adorned the area outside. One banner read, “Seok-jin, you did so well for the last 548 days. We’ll stand by you with our unwavering love,” referring to Jin by his full first name.
South Korea mandates all able-bodied men to serve in the military for 18 to 21 months by the age of 28, due to the ongoing threat from North Korea. Despite hopes from fans for an exemption for BTS due to their significant cultural impact, the band’s management, Big Hit Music, confirmed in October 2022 that all members would fulfill their military duties.
BTS is expected to regroup in June 2025 after the last members, RM, Jimin, Jungkook, and V, complete their service. During Jin’s discharge, a large balloon with the message “Worldwide handsome Seok-jin! Congratulations on your discharge,” floated outside the camp.
Local authorities also joined in the celebration with their own banner stating, “BTS Jin, the last year and a half was a joy for us. Yeoncheon will not forget you!”
Jin’s discharge was announced by the band’s agency on the Weverse platform earlier this week. The announcement expressed excitement for Jin’s return and reminded fans to avoid visiting the camp for safety reasons. Local media reported that only two fans were present on Wednesday morning.
Jin is scheduled to participate in the Festa event in Seoul on Thursday, celebrating the band’s 11th anniversary, where he will greet fans with hugs. He will also take part in a meet-and-greet event that will be livestreamed on Weverse. Suga, who is exempt from military service due to medical reasons, was the only member absent from the celebration.