Jin, oldest member of K-pop's BTS, finishes army service in South Korea

BTS

Jin, the eldest member of the globally renowned K-pop group BTS, has concluded his 18-month military service in South Korea, marking a significant moment as the first member to fulfill his mandatory national duty. The emotional scene unfolded at a military base in Yeoncheon, Gyeonggi province, where Jin, 31, clad in his army uniform and a black beret, bid farewell to his comrades.

The media spotlight captured Jin's departure, with reports indicating that several other BTS members currently serving in the military sought permission to commemorate the occasion. Among them was rapper RM, who greeted Jin with a saxophone performance of the group's hit single 'Dynamite'.

Jin initiated his military service in December 2022, becoming the first BTS member to enlist. Subsequently, the remaining four members commenced their service in December 2023. The group's fans eagerly anticipate their eventual reunion, projected to take place in 2025 once all members have completed their military obligations.

Jin's post-army endeavors are set to commence with an event in Seoul, scheduled for the following day, where he will engage with fans and deliver an hour-long performance as part of the annual FESTA celebrations dedicated to honoring BTS.

Since their debut on June 13, 2013, BTS has ascended to become the epitome of K-pop, spearheading South Korea's pop music industry and emerging as one of the nation's foremost cultural exports.

Jin's military discharge garnered immense attention, evident in the hundreds of thousands of viewers who tuned in to livestreams of the event on YouTube.

South Korea mandates military service for all able-bodied men aged 18 to 28, lasting between 18 to 21 months. However, a legislative amendment in 2020 allowed internationally acclaimed K-pop stars to defer enlistment until the age of 30.

Jin's return from military service not only signifies a personal milestone but also holds symbolic significance for BTS and their global fanbase, underscoring the group's enduring bond and commitment to both their artistic endeavors and national duties.