BTS Stars Released From South Korean Military Service
Two members of the international K-pop sensation BTS were discharged from South Korea's military after fulfilling their mandatory service, setting the stage for a 2025 comeback after a several-year hiatus.
RM and V were both released separately from their service on Tuesday in South Korea's Chuncheon City and were greeted by around 200 fans.
"What we want most right now is to perform again," RM, still wearing his army uniform, told reporters and fans after his discharge. "We're working hard on the new album so we can return to the stage as soon as possible."
The pair began their service in December 2023, while three other BTS members-Jin, J-Hope and Suga-were already months into their conscription.
Jin, the oldest member of the K-pop supergroup, was discharged from the army in June 2024. J-Hope was discharged in October. Jimin and JungKook are scheduled to be discharged Wednesday.
The seventh member, Suga, is fulfilling his duty as a social service agent, an alternative to military service. He is to be released later this month.
The seven BTS members plan to reunite as a group sometime in 2025.
In South Korea, all able-bodied men aged 18 to 28 are required by law to perform 18-21 months of military service under a conscription system meant to deter aggression from rival North Korea.
This is a developing article. Updates to follow.
This article uses reporting by The Associated Press.
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