On October 18, 2022, K-pop group BTS’s label Big Hit Music confirmed the septet’s decision to move forward with their mandatory military service. As per the statement released by the management company, it was confirmed that the oldest member and vocalist of the group, Jin, will begin his services by the end of October.
The company made the announcement today, right after BTS’s massive concert. ‘Yet to Come in Busan,’ in support of the city’s bid to be the destination of the world expo 2030. The group has taken this decision after a long waiting period and several meetings at the official levels.
The statement released by Big Hit music read that the label is proud to announce that the members of BTS have unanimously decided to move forward with the plans to fulfill their military service. The management said that after their phenomenal performance at the concert to support Busan’s bid for the World Expo 2030, each member of the band is ready to embark on solo endeavors, and the band is truly honored to serve.”
The Statement further read that the BigHit Label has mainly focused on this milestone moment to let these healthy young men serve their country and respect the needs of their nation. They said that there is no better time than now to give the members the opportunity to fulfill their military service.
As per South Korean law, all able-bodied men between the ages of 18-21 must serve for two years in the military. However, exemptions have been made by the government for athletes, traditional singers, and dancers who have contributed to the national prestige of South Korea. The military service for BTS members has so far been a subject of debate as this exemption by the government never included popular culture acts or other K-pop groups.
After the Military Service Amendment Act in 2020, Jin, born in 1992, was allowed by South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to postpone his enlistment by the end of the year. This decision was taken by BTS themselves after the South Korean government was unable to draw a final conclusion after all the debates.
The company had also tweeted that the group intends to reconvene as a band in 2025 after their military services.
BTS, also known as The Bangtan Boys, has been the world’s best-selling artist for the past two years. They became a worldwide sensation with their upbeat and catchy songs like ‘Dynamite,’ ‘Butter,’ and others.
The K-Pop icons had also been appointed as Presidential Special Envoy for Future Generations and culture. The band has been Honoured with awards such as ‘Artist of the Year’ at the American Music Awards, ‘Best International Group’ at BBC Radio1 Teen Awards, among others, and ‘Top Selling Song’ for Dynamite at Billboard Music Awards, among others.
The group’s oldest member Jin, who will turn 30 in December, will begin the formalities after commitments to his solo album release are complete. The lead vocalist will follow the Military Manpower Administration’s relevant procedures for enlistment. This will be followed by other members of the band according to their individual plans.
