Global K-pop sensation BTS has confirmed on Wednesday that the remaining four members of the group – RM (Kim Namjoon), Jimin, V (Kim Taehyung), and Jungkook – are set to begin their mandatory military service, signaling a prolonged hiatus for the chart-topping boy band.
The announcement, made by BTS’s agency, BIGHIT MUSIC, revealed that the four members will be entering the Korean military, joining their bandmates Jin, who enlisted in December last year, J-Hope (April), and Suga, who have already commenced their military service.
The mandatory military service in South Korea applies to all men between the ages of 18 and 28 and requires a commitment of 20 months. This means that BTS will be navigating a hiatus through 2024 and much of 2025, leaving fans in anticipation of their return.
The official statement from BIGHIT MUSIC, released on Weverse, reads:
Hello. This is BIGHIT MUSIC. We would like to inform our fans that RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook have initiated the military enlistment process. The artists are preparing to fulfill their military service duties. We will inform you of further updates in due course. We ask you for your continued love and support for RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook until they complete their military service and safely return. Our company will spare no effort in providing support for our artists. Thank you.
Since Jin’s enlistment almost a year ago, BTS has gradually shifted toward a hiatus, with individual members exploring solo projects. All seven members of the group have successfully entered the Billboard charts with their solo endeavors, showcasing their versatility and individual artistic expressions.