The 'Astronaut' singer receives a bouquet of flowers and is serenaded by RM's live saxophone rendition of their hit 'Dynamite' before hugging other members outside the military site.
- June 12, 2024
AceShowbiz - After an 18-month hiatus, the eldest member of BTS (Bangtan Boys), Jin, has officially completed his mandatory military service. The 31-year-old is the first from the immensely popular K-Pop group to complete his military duties after enlisting in December 2022.
BTS' management agency, Big Hit Music, made the announcement via Weverse, stating, "Jin is close to completing his active service in the army and will soon be discharged." The agency emphasized that there would be no special events planned for Jin's discharge and urged fans to avoid visiting the military site to prevent overcrowding issues.
"Please note that the discharge day is reserved for military personnel only. No special events are planned on the day of Jin's discharge," the statement read. "Please convey your warm regards and encouragement in your hearts."
Korean media extensively covered Jin's return, with Seoul Broadcasting System (SBS) streaming live as Jin hugged his fellow soldiers and prepared to exit the military site on Wednesday morning, June 12, local time. Shortly thereafter, Jin was seen walking out, saluting and posing for the waiting cameras.
He was warmly greeted by almost all of his fellow BTS members, RM, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook, who are currently serving. The group's leader, RM, set a celebratory tone with a saxophone rendition of BTS' hit "Dynamite".
In January, Jin had teased his return in a pre-recorded video shared with fans, saying, "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." His words provided solace to fans eagerly awaiting his return.
Before his enlistment, Jin released a solo single titled "The Astronaut". His departure marked the beginning of a new chapter for BTS as they collectively decided to fulfill their mandatory military service. Big Hit Music announced this decision in October 2022, stating it was the "perfect time" and that the members were honored to serve.
With Jin's return, the BTS ARMY is now counting down the days until the rest of the members complete their service. J-Hope enlisted in April 2023, followed by Suga in September 2023. V and RM enlisted in December 2023, with Jungkook and Jimin also enlisting later that month.
BTS is expected to reunite as a full group in 2025, once all members have been discharged. Until then, the ARMY eagerly awaits the day when the iconic band will take the stage together once more.
