K-pop sensation Jin, the eldest member of the globally renowned boy band BTS, has officially completed his mandatory military service in South Korea. On Wednesday, Jin was discharged after 18 months of duty, marking a significant milestone as the first member of BTS to finish the national service that temporarily paused their music careers.
The 31-year-old was visibly emotional as he embraced his fellow soldiers at a military base in Yeoncheon, Gyeonggi province. The touching moment was captured on television, showing Jin’s heartfelt reunion with his colleagues. Later, during a livestream on the Weverse fandom platform, Jin shared his feelings with over 3 million viewers. “I cried during the ceremony,” he admitted, adding, “But it was so fun for the last year and six months. It’s such a relief I met so many good people.”
In celebration of Jin’s discharge, several BTS members currently serving in the military reportedly applied for leave to join the festivities. Among them was rapper RM, who welcomed Jin with a saxophone performance of their hit single “Dynamite.”
Jin’s enlistment in December 2022 marked the beginning of BTS members fulfilling their mandatory military duties. The remaining four members began their service in December 2023, with the group expected to reunite in 2025 once all members have completed their obligations.
To commemorate his discharge, Jin plans to host an event in Seoul on Thursday, where he will greet fans and perform. BTS’ label, Hybe, has organized the event at the Jamsil Sports Complex, selecting 1,000 fans who will have the opportunity to hug the star.
Since their debut in 2013, BTS has achieved global superstardom, earning No. 1 singles in over 100 countries and amassing more than 74 million Instagram followers. In 2020, Time magazine named them Entertainer of the Year. The group also made headlines in 2022 when they visited the White House to discuss Asian representation and anti-Asian hate crimes, which had surged in the US during the pandemic.
Beyond their musical achievements, BTS members have become influential fashion icons. In 2021, Louis Vuitton appointed them as brand ambassadors, and they wore complementary suits designed by the brand for the 64th Grammy Awards. Members Suga and Jimin have also starred in campaigns for Valentino and Dior, respectively, with Dior’s artistic director Kim Jones designing custom stage outfits for their 2019 tour.
South Korea mandates that all able-bodied men between the ages of 18 and 28 serve 18 to 21 months in the military or social service. However, a 2020 law revision allowed globally recognized K-pop stars to delay their enlistment until age 30.
Jin’s completion of his military service is a significant moment for BTS and their fans, signaling the beginning of the group’s gradual return to the music scene. As the remaining members continue their service, the anticipation for BTS’ full reunion in 2025 continues to build among their global fanbase.
