Suga of BTS Completes Military Service; BTS Set for 2025 Reunion

Seoul, Jun 20 (AP) Suga, the renowned rapper and songwriter from the global K-pop sensation BTS, has officially completed South Korea's mandatory military service. This marks the full return of all seven BTS members from their enlistment obligations.

Suga's alternative service obligations were finalized on Wednesday, as confirmed by his label, after he utilized his remaining leave. His official discharge is set for Saturday.

BTS' management agency, Big Hit Entertainment, previously announced that no special events would accompany Suga's discharge, citing concerns over potential overcrowding.

This milestone is particularly significant for the dedicated fans of BTS. With military duties behind them, the members plan to reconvene as a group by 2025.

Just last week, BTS members RM and V completed their military service, with Jimin and Jung Kook following suit shortly after. All four had commenced their service in December 2023.

While six of the BTS members served in the military, Suga fulfilled his obligations as a social service agent, an alternative form of national service available in South Korea.

Jin, the eldest member of the group, was discharged in June 2024, and J-Hope followed in October.

In South Korea, mandatory military service is required for all able-bodied men aged 18 to 28, typically lasting between 18 to 21 months. This service is part of a defense strategy against North Korean threats.

Exceptions to this requirement are made for certain athletes, classical and traditional musicians, and specific dancers who achieve top recognition in their fields, enhancing national prestige. However, such exemptions aren’t extended to entertainers, including K-pop stars.

In a notable development in 2020, BTS members postponed their service until age 30, following a revision of South Korea's Military Service Act by the National Assembly, allowing K-pop stars to delay enlistment.

The prospect of granting special military service exemptions to BTS led to significant public debate in 2022. Ultimately, BTS' management declared in October 2022 that all members would dutifully fulfill their service obligations. (AP)

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