BTS fans around the world are rejoicing as the beloved K-pop group reunites to celebrate Jin’s discharge from military service. The emotional reunion took place in Yeoncheon, South Korea, where Jin, whose real name is Kim Seok-jin, completed his mandatory military duties. This marks a significant milestone as Jin is the first member of BTS to finish his service.
In a heartwarming display of camaraderie, the six other BTS members gathered outside the military base to welcome Jin back. The scene was filled with joy and emotion as Jin, holding a bouquet of flowers, was greeted with hugs from his bandmates. RM, the group’s leader, added a special touch to the celebration by playing an abridged version of their hit song “Dynamite” on the saxophone, creating a memorable moment for both the members and the fans.
Earlier this week, BigHit Music, the agency representing BTS, confirmed Jin’s discharge. In a statement, they expressed their excitement about Jin’s return, stating, “We are thrilled to announce Jin’s upcoming military discharge. He is close to completing his active service in the army and will soon be back.”
To ensure a smooth and safe discharge process, BigHit Music requested that fans refrain from crowding the discharge site. “Please note that the discharge day is reserved for military personnel only,” the agency emphasized. “No special events are planned on the day of Jin’s discharge. To prevent any issues arising from overcrowding, fans are strongly advised to refrain from visiting the site. Please convey your warm regards and encouragement in your hearts.”
Jin’s return will be celebrated with fans tomorrow, June 13, through a special meet-and-greet event and a performance, which will be streamed live on Weverse. This event is part of the annual BTS FESTA, a celebration of the group’s debut anniversary, and will take place at the Seoul Sports Complex. Some 1,000 lucky fans, chosen through a raffle, will have the opportunity to meet Jin in person.
In January, Jin had hinted at his return by sharing a pre-recorded video with fans. In the video, he expressed his longing to reunite with his fans and promised to work hard once he returned. “I miss you all. I miss you a lot,” he said. “Wait just a bit more and you’ll be able to see me with short hair. I’ll grow my hair quickly this year and I’ll be able to start working hard soon.”
The anticipation for Jin’s return has been palpable among BTS ARMY, the group’s dedicated fanbase. With Jin back, fans are now eagerly counting down the days until the remaining members complete their military service. J-Hope enlisted on April 18, 2023, followed by Suga on September 22, 2023, V and RM on December 11, 2023, and Jungkook and Jimin on December 12, 2023. BTS announced a hiatus in 2022 to allow all seven members to fulfill their military service requirements, with plans to reconvene in 2025.
The news of BTS members reuniting to celebrate Jin’s return has elicited heartwarming reactions from fans worldwide. Social media platforms have been flooded with messages of joy and support. One fan wrote, “BTS made it their mission to be all there to send each other off to the military. They also made it their mission to be present to welcome each other back until they’re all complete again. BTS IS A FAMILY.” Another fan commented, “It’s the fact that nothing can come between BTS and the fact that they’ll always be there for one another, not even when they had busy schedules as soloists and especially not even when they’re serving the country.”
The reunion was not without its challenges. Due to safety concerns, the group’s initial plan to meet Jin in front of the military unit had to be adjusted. Instead, the members reunited in Seoul for a private celebration. Despite these challenges, the bond between the members remained strong, as evidenced by their heartfelt reunion.
Jin’s discharge marks the beginning of a new chapter for him. He is expected to kickstart a series of activities, including a fan hug meeting with ARMY, the celebration of BTS’s upcoming 11th anniversary, and the release of his solo album later in the year. Fans are eagerly looking forward to these events and the opportunity to see Jin back in action.
As Jin passed through the main gate of the 5th Army Infantry Division in Yeoncheon, he was greeted with cheers and applause. During his service, Jin served as an assistant drill instructor at the army recruit training center, a role that earned him respect and admiration.
The reunion was a poignant reminder of the strong bond between the BTS members. Despite their individual commitments and military duties, they made it a priority to be there for each other. This unwavering support and camaraderie are what make BTS not just a band, but a family.
As the BTS members continue to fulfill their military service, fans can look forward to more heartwarming reunions in the future. With Jin back, the countdown begins for the return of the remaining members, and the anticipation for BTS’s full reunion in 2025 continues to build.
