Seoul: RM and V, prominent members of the globally acclaimed K-pop group BTS, were officially discharged from South Korea's mandatory military service on Tuesday. They are the third and fourth members of the seven-member group to fulfill this national obligation.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the two artists addressed fans and journalists during a brief ceremony held at a football field near V's military unit in Chuncheon, located approximately 75 kilometers northeast of Seoul. Hundreds of enthusiastic fans gathered early in the morning, equipped with signs and cheering wands, to welcome their favorite idols.
Excitement surged as RM and V emerged from separate vehicles, sharing a light hug. RM, wearing sunglasses, marked the occasion with a saxophone performance of a soundtrack from a Japanese animated film, while V stood beside him, holding two flower bouquets. Their BTS bandmates were not present, in adherence to the guidance from their agency, BigHit Music, which had advised fans against visiting to avoid safety concerns and overcrowding.
RM expressed gratitude to fans for their patience, reflecting on the unique experience of military service. He stated, "Through military life, I realized that we were able to actively pursue our careers because people were protecting and fighting for our country." He also expressed eagerness to return to the stage soon.
V shared his reflections, noting that the military period allowed him to reconsider and prepare himself mentally and physically. He conveyed his desire to reconnect with BTS' fandom, known as ARMY, promising impressive performances upon their return. Both RM and V left the venue in separate black minivans after offering a final salute.
RM and V enlisted in December 2023, with RM serving in the Army's military band and V in a special mission unit under the military police. Their discharge follows that of Jin and J-Hope, who completed their service in June and October last year, respectively. Jimin and Jungkook are scheduled for discharge on Wednesday, while Suga, who served as a social service agent due to health issues, is expected to complete his duty on June 21.
The discharge of the remaining members is a significant milestone towards BTS' full-group return to the music industry. In celebration, Hybe, the parent company of BigHit Music, has adorned its headquarters in Seoul with BTS and ARMY logos and the phrase "We Are Back," which will remain until June 29, aligning with BTS' debut anniversary on June 13.
Hybe expressed in a release that the phrase "feels even more special as all the members have completed their military service and are returning to their fans." With Jin and J-Hope already engaging in solo activities, anticipation for BTS' group projects continues to rise.