BTS members Jimin and Jungkook were officially discharged from South Korea’s mandatory military service on Wednesday, completing 18 months of active duty in the Army’s 5th Infantry Division in Yeoncheon.
The two idols greeted a crowd of fans and media gathered near their former unit, dressed in military uniforms and saluting as they received bouquets from agency officials. Fans erupted in applause as they appeared, marking a moment long awaited by ARMYs worldwide.
“It’s been a long time since COVID-19 and then the military,” said Jimin. “Thank you for waiting. We’ll work hard to show an even better side of ourselves.” He reflected on his military experience, calling it challenging but meaningful.
Jungkook, visibly shy, admitted feeling awkward in front of cameras without makeup. “I’m a bit embarrassed,” he said, before expressing thanks to his fellow soldiers.
Both promised to share more during a Weverse livestream.
Jimin and Jungkook enlisted together in December 2023. Their discharge follows that of Jin, J-Hope, RM, and V. The group is expected to reunite after Suga, currently serving as a social service worker due to health reasons, completes his service on June 21.
