On April 1, KST, Big Hit Music revealed that BTS member j-hope would soon be enlisting as an active duty soldier. The agency stated that no official ceremony would be held at the recruit training center to prevent chaotic situations and safety accidents. They strongly urged fans not to visit the site and only to send their warm wishes and encouragement in their hearts.
BTS j-hope’s enlistment date is still unknown, but he will soon be the second member of BTS to begin his mandatory service duties as an active-duty soldier. Jin, the eldest member, began military duty for his country in December 2022.
BTS members Jimin, RM, V (Kim Taehyung), Suga, and Jungkook, are also expected to enlist in their respective military services soon. However, they are active in solo projects and keeping their fans updated on their Vlive accounts.
Big Hit Music has warned fans to be cautious of unauthorized use of the artist’s IP to advertise tour packages or other products.
BTS’s Success and Impact on the South Korean Economy
BTS has become a worldwide sensation since its debut in 2013, earning No.1 singles in over 100 countries, more than 48 million followers on Twitter, and their first Grammy nomination in 2020. They have also become a significant part of the South Korean economy, responsible for 0.3% of the country’s gross domestic product with $4.9 billion in revenue, according to a 2019 study.
Despite their success, many fans worry that the group’s success could be derailed by their mandatory military service. However, Big Hit Music has stated that all seven BTS members will serve their mandatory military service, and the group is expected to reconvene around 2025.
j-hope’s New Solo Single Release
On March 3, j-hope released a new solo single called On the Street, according to a statement from Big Hit Music. The announcement of his military service comes just a few weeks after his solo release.
j-hope’s announcement to enlist in the military has left BTS fans worldwide feeling bittersweet. While they are sad to see him leave, they are also proud of him for fulfilling his mandatory military service duty. Fans eagerly await updates on his enlistment date and send their warm wishes and encouragement to j-hope during this time.