K-pop Sensation Commences Military Duties
The globally acclaimed K-pop band BTS has officially started their mandatory military service in accordance with South Korean law, as announced by their management agency. The seven members of the group have made the decision to fulfill their military duties and are scheduled to reunite as a group in 2025 after completing their service.
Fulfilling Responsibilities and Ending the Exemption Debate
The band’s plan to serve in the military was finalized in October 2022, putting an end to the debate over possible exemptions for BTS members. Jin and J-Hope have joined the army, while Suga is fulfilling his duty as a social service agent, an alternative form of service permitted by South Korean law.
According to HYBE, the band’s management company, RM and V have arrived at an army boot camp in the central city of Nonsan to begin their 18-month compulsory service. Jimin and Jung Kook are expected to report to the army together, although the specific date has not been confirmed by the company.
In a statement posted on his Instagram account, RM expressed his gratitude for being a part of BTS for the past 10 years. He acknowledged that the upcoming 18 months would be both long and short, but expressed optimism that it would be a period of inspiration and learning for all the members. He ended his message with a heartfelt declaration of love for the fans and a promise to see them in the future.
Same Process for All
RM and V will undergo five weeks of combat training before being assigned to specific units and duties. The Military Manpower Administration has made it clear that the BTS members will go through the same process as other South Korean males conscripted for service.
South Korean law mandates that most able-bodied men must perform 18-21 months of military service. While exceptions are granted for athletes and classical artists who excel in certain international competitions tied to national prestige, K-pop singers do not enjoy such privileges.
The End of the Exemption Debate
Last year, a heated public debate erupted over whether BTS members should be exempted from military service, with some politicians arguing that their artistic achievements warranted special treatment. However, the discourse came to a close in October 2022 when their management company announced that all seven members of BTS would fulfill their military duties. In December, Jin became the first member to enter the army after withdrawing his request for a delay in conscription.
While accusations of preferential treatment for famous conscripts have been made in the past, recent testimonials from individuals who served in the military suggest that K-pop stars go through the same rigorous training as their fellow conscripts. They wake up early, receive lectures on threats posed by North Korea, and undergo combat training, including long marches in full gear.
K-pop’s Global Phenomenon
K-pop, with BTS at its forefront, has become a global phenomenon since the band’s formation in 2013. BTS has amassed a dedicated fan base worldwide, affectionately known as the “Army.” Their popularity further skyrocketed in the West with their 2020 megahit “Dynamite,” which became their first all-English song to top Billboard’s Hot 100. The band has sold out arenas globally and has even been invited to speak at United Nations meetings.
Sensitivity Surrounding Mandatory Military Service
Mandatory military service is a highly sensitive issue in South Korea, as young men who are drafted into the army must put their studies or professional careers on hold. This has sparked heated debates and gender tensions in a hyper-competitive job market. However, BTS, with their decision to fulfill their military duties, sets an example of fulfilling responsibilities despite their global success.