Two more BTS megastars released from South Korea military service

Two more BTS members were released from South Korean military service Wednesday, bringing the K-pop supergroup closer to a reunion as they promised fans a “better version” of themselves soon.

The septuplet BTS, South Korea’s most lucrative musical act, has been on a self-described hiatus since 2022 while its members separately completed their military service, which is mandatory in the South for all men under 30.

More than a thousand fans gathered at the site of a press conference near the two army bases where singer Jimin whose solo single “Who” holds the record for longest-running K-pop song on the Billboard Hot 100 and singer Jungkook were discharged.

With so many people assembled to greet the music icons, the networks were overloaded and some broadcasters experienced satellite disruptions.

When the members started to speak, their voices were often drowned out by the deafening cheers and joyful screams from the crowd.

“Thank you so much for waiting for us all this time,” Jungkook said.

“Now that we’ve been discharged, I believe it’s time for us to keep drawing the picture we’ve always envisioned. We’ll make sure to prepare well and show you an even better version of ourselves.”

Jimin said the military “wasn’t an easy place”.

“Still, I carry with me many meaningful memories, and I’ll hold on to them for a long time,” said the 29-year-old.

“After experiencing military life firsthand, I can say it truly isn’t easy… if you happen to pass by a soldier, even a small word of kindness would mean the world to them,” he added.

Streets in the area were decorated with colourful lampposts and banners.

One read, “Jungkook’s voice, back to the world,” while another read, “Jimin! Now that you’re discharged, how about a world tour?”

Giant banners floated in the sky alongside balloons, with one reading: “We missed you, Jungkook!”

With the discharge of Jungkook and Jimin, six of the group’s members have now completed their military service.

Final member SUGA who has been working as a social service agent for alternative non-active-duty service is due out next week.