BTS Returns from Military Service: What to Know
BTS Returns from Military Service: What to Know
Executive Summary
South Korean supergroup BTS (Bangtan Sonyeondan) has officially completed its members’ mandatory military service, marking a pivotal moment in the group’s history and paving the way for their much–anticipated reunion and full resumption of activities. Suga (Min Yoongi), the last member to fulfill his service via a social service agent role, was discharged on June 21, 2025. With all seven members now free, fans and industry observers alike are looking ahead to new music, global tours, and continued social activism by the group.
Background and Timeline
• Debut and Rise to Global Fame: BTS debuted in June 2013 under Big Hit Music with their first album “2 Cool 4 Skool.” They achieved global breakthrough in 2017 when “DNA” entered the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the first Korean boy band to chart there.
• Grammy Recognition: The group has received five Grammy nominations, including a nod for “Dynamite,” the first for a K-pop act.
• Social Campaigns: BTS launched the “Love Myself” campaign with UNICEF and donated $1 million to the Black Lives Matter movement, demonstrating their commitment to social causes.
• Military Service: In South Korea, able-bodied male citizens must complete approximately two years of military service. BTS members began enlisting in 2022. Suga, recovering from a shoulder injury, served as a social service agent rather than active duty.
Key Milestones
• June 15, 2023: Jungkook became the first BTS member to be discharged, returning directly to group activities.
• September 2023 – April 2025: RM, Jin, J-Hope, Jimin, and V completed their service in staggered fashion.
• June 21, 2025: Suga was discharged, making BTS officially whole again.
Reunion Expectations
Industry insiders and media outlets report that BTS plans to reunite later in 2025. Sources indicate:
• Comeback Timing: Variety reports a planned comeback in March 2026, allowing for preparation and promotion (Variety Article: https://variety.com/2025/music/news/bts-march-2026-comeback-1236435080/).
• Anniversary Event: The group reunited at the 2025 BTS Festa in June, marking their 12th anniversary and demonstrating their seamless return to togetherness (Hollywood Reporter Article: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/music-news/bts-anniversary-reunion-military-discharge-1236294510/).
Impact and Fan Reaction
The BTS ARMY has responded with overwhelming enthusiasm. Social media platforms brimmed with celebratory messages, trending hashtags, and online watch parties commemorating each member’s discharge. The reunification at BTS Festa featured performances, behind-the-scenes videos, and personal messages from the members, reinforcing their bond with fans.
Key Quotes from BTS
Below are verified quotes from BTS members and announcements, along with their sources:
1. RM and V’s Discharge (AP News)
"RM and V of BTS are discharged from South Korea’s military after fulfilling their mandatory service."
Source: https://apnews.com/article/bts-rm-v-military-service-south-korea-7bba75fa329ca11b588962e6f8088b11
2. Suga’s Completion of Service (Times Now)
"BTS member Suga aka Min Yoongi got discharged from the military on June 21, completing his alternative military service as a social service agent, making BTS officially a whole again."
Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/korean/bts-suga-yoongi-discharged-from-military-band-enlistment-chapter-ends-army-emotional-for-big-reunion-our-7-is-home-article-152118347
3. ARMY Reception for Suga (Times Now)
"ARMYs welcome Suga with bated breath, marking his return as part of the group's reunion."
Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/korean/bts-suga-yoongi-discharged-from-military-band-enlistment-chapter-ends-army-emotional-for-big-reunion-our-7-is-home-article-152118347
4. Official Weverse Announcement (Times Now)
"Suga announced his return through a Weverse note."
Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/korean/bts-suga-yoongi-discharged-from-military-band-enlistment-chapter-ends-army-emotional-for-big-reunion-our-7-is-home-article-152118347
5. Completion of Six Members’ Service (People.com)
"Six of the seven members of BTS have completed their mandatory military service."
Source: https://people.com/bts-members-reunite-for-12-year-anniversary-as-they-complete-required-military-service-this-month-11751171
6. Reunion at BTS Festa (Hollywood Reporter)
"All members of BTS reunited at the 2025 BTS Festa, marking their 12th anniversary."
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/music-news/bts-anniversary-reunion-military-discharge-1236294510/
Conclusion
With all members having completed their required service, BTS stands poised to resume full-scale group activities. Fans can look forward to new music, global tours beginning as early as 2026, and the group’s signature blend of artistry and advocacy. Their successful return underscores BTS’s enduring impact on music, culture, and social engagement worldwide.
Final URL for Reference:
https://www.tribtoday.com/news/international-news-apwire/2025/06/what-to-know-about-bts-as-the-k-pop-group-returns-from-military-service/
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