In a poignant moment that resonated with fans around the world, Jin, the eldest member of the K-pop sensation BTS, bid farewell to his military duties on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in the group’s journey.
Clad in the distinguished uniform and black beret of the South Korean army, Jin’s discharge after 18 months of service stirred emotions as he embraced his colleagues at a military base in Yeoncheon, Gyeonggi province. Television footage captured the bittersweet scene, highlighting Jin’s heartfelt sentiments as he expressed gratitude for his time in service during a livestream that garnered over three million views on the Weverse fandom platform.
Reflecting on his military experience, Jin remarked, “I cried during the ceremony, but it was so fun for the last year and six months. It’s such a relief I met so many good people,” extending his regards to his fellow soldiers. The occasion also saw a touching gesture from fellow BTS member RM, who greeted Jin with a saxophone rendition of the group’s hit single “Dynamite.”
Jin’s discharge marks the first among the BTS members, signaling the gradual return of the group from their hiatus imposed by mandatory military service, slated for 2025 once all members have completed their service. Furthermore, Jin plans to celebrate his newfound freedom with an event in Seoul, South Korea, where, a thousand lucky fans are poised to embrace Jin, marking his return to the spotlight. The “hugathon,” a three-hour affair, promises intimate moments with the K-pop idol. For fans, the journey to this moment has been nothing short of surreal.
Yet, behind the fanfare lies a backdrop of controversy. The event’s qualification rules, requiring fans to join the ARMY and purchase BTS albums for a chance to participate, sparked backlash and accusations against HYBE, the band’s management agency. Despite the uproar, Jin addressed the controversy with sincerity during his livestream, urging understanding from fans.
As Jin embraces his fans, questions linger about BTS’s future in the wake of their hiatus. Music critic Lim Hee-yun acknowledges the inevitable changes, noting that BTS will be perceived as older. However, he remains optimistic about the band’s enduring appeal, citing their loyal fanbase as a testament to their lasting impact.
The impact of BTS transcends the realm of music, as the septet has garnered global acclaim and accolades since their debut in 2013. From chart-topping singles in over 100 countries to a massive following of 74 million on social media platforms like Instagram, BTS’s influence is undeniable. Their advocacy for Asian representation and stance against anti-Asian hate crimes, exemplified during a visit to the White House in 2022 amidst the pandemic, further solidifies their status as cultural icons.
Beyond their musical prowess, BTS members have become synonymous with fashion, collaborating with prestigious brands like Louis Vuitton and gracing the stages of high-profile events like the Grammy Awards. Their individual ventures into fashion campaigns and collaborations underscore their versatility and appeal beyond the music industry.
South Korea’s mandatory military service, which interrupts the careers of countless young men, underwent revisions in 2020 to accommodate globally recognized K-pop stars, allowing them to delay enlistment until the age of 30. Jin’s discharge symbolizes not only a personal milestone but also a testament to BTS’s enduring impact on the global stage, paving the way for the next chapter in their extraordinary journey.
