All seven members of global K-pop sensation BTS have officially completed their mandatory military duties, setting the stage for a long-awaited group reunion in 2025.
The final member, Suga, wrapped up his alternative service as a social service agent this week, with his official discharge set for Saturday. According to Big Hit Music, “no separate event is planned” for Suga’s return, citing crowd control concerns. Unlike his bandmates, Suga did not serve in the military due to health reasons but fulfilled his obligation through alternative service.
Just last week, RM and V were discharged, followed shortly by Jimin and Jung Kook. All four enlisted together in December 2023. Jin, the group’s eldest, was the first to complete his service in June 2024, followed by J-Hope in October 2024.
The milestone closes a significant chapter in the band’s journey. Fans around the world have been eagerly anticipating their return to the stage, now made possible as all members have fulfilled their national duty.
South Korea mandates military service for all able-bodied men aged 18 to 28, with very limited exemptions. While high-performing athletes and classical artists may qualify for waivers, pop stars are not typically included. In BTS’s case, a 2020 revision allowed members to defer enlistment until age 30—but by 2022, Big Hit announced the group’s unified decision to serve.
