Quick Read
- Jimin and Jungkook, members of K-pop group BTS, were discharged from military service on June 11, 2025.
- Their release follows that of RM and V earlier this week, with Suga set to complete his service later this month.
- Fans eagerly await a full BTS reunion as members reflect on their time in service and hint at future projects.
BTS members Jimin and Jungkook have officially completed their mandatory military service in South Korea as of June 11, 2025. Emerging from the military base in Yeoncheon, about 60 kilometers north of Seoul, the two greeted hundreds of fans and journalists who had gathered to celebrate their return. Holding bouquets and dressed in military uniforms, the duo expressed gratitude to their supporters and reflected on their experiences during their service.
Milestone in BTS’s Military Journey
Jimin and Jungkook’s discharge marks the completion of military service for six out of the seven BTS members. Earlier this week, RM and V were also released from duty, following Jin and J-Hope, who had completed their service in 2024. Suga, the final member still in service, is expected to conclude his alternative service as a social service agent by the end of June.
South Korea mandates military service for all able-bodied men under 30, a law that BTS members have adhered to despite calls for exemptions. In 2022, their management agency confirmed that all members would fulfill this obligation. Over the past 18 months, each member has experienced a personal and professional pause, with some describing this time as deeply transformative. J-Hope, for instance, shared with Rolling Stone that the experience was “invaluable” and shaped his creative aspirations.
Fans Celebrate the End of Service
The atmosphere at the military base was electric, with fans from across the globe assembling as early as 3 a.m. Colorful banners, balloons, and messages like “We missed you, Jungkook!” and “Jimin, how about a world tour now?” adorned the streets. Fans erupted into cheers as the stars appeared, their excitement palpable. Jimin remarked, “The military wasn’t an easy place, but I carry meaningful memories that I’ll hold on to for a long time.” He encouraged fans to offer kind words to soldiers they encounter, acknowledging the challenges of military life.
Jungkook, appearing slightly shy, said, “It’s been a while since I’ve been in front of a camera, and I feel a bit flustered.” Despite the initial awkwardness, he conveyed heartfelt thanks to fans and promised a “better version” of himself in future projects. Later, during a live chat on the Weverse platform, both members shared their thoughts on their military experience and hinted at upcoming plans.
Anticipation for a BTS Reunion
With six members now discharged, speculation about a full BTS reunion has intensified. Hybe, the group’s management agency, has suggested a potential comeback later this year. Analysts predict a significant global impact from the group’s return, considering their pre-hiatus contributions to South Korea’s economy. According to the Korea Culture and Tourism Institute, BTS generated over 5.5 trillion won (approximately $4 billion USD) annually before their military service.
The timing of Jimin and Jungkook’s release coincides with the group’s 12th anniversary on June 13, 2025. Celebrations are planned across Seoul, with the Hybe headquarters draped in banners reading “WE ARE BACK.” Fans worldwide are eager to see what the group has in store, particularly as members have hinted at new projects and a more mature artistic direction.
While no official reunion date has been announced, the discharge of Suga later this month will mark the end of an era of military service for BTS, paving the way for a long-anticipated return to the global stage.
As Jimin and Jungkook rejoin civilian life, their discharge signals not only a personal milestone but also a potential turning point for BTS’s future. Fans eagerly await the next chapter in the group’s extraordinary journey.