When did Jin Go to the Military? – A Detailed Explanation
When it comes to K-pop, there is no bigger name than BTS () in the current generation. Formed by Big Hit Entertainment in 2013, the group consists of seven members: RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook. Throughout their seven-year career, the members have become an integral part of each other’s lives, both personally and professionally.
The Road to Conscription
As citizens of South Korea, all Korean men are required by law to serve in the military for a period of 21-30 months, depending on their educational background and career path. However, due to the South Korean government’s policies regarding K-pop and its benefits to the country’s music industry, exceptions were made for certain celebrities, such as BTS, to join the military in the order of their ages.
In 2018, Jungkook (born Jeon Jung-kook), the main vocalist of the group, turned 26 years old and was subject to conscription. Due to his active role as a celebrity and the massive impact BTS had on Korean pop culture, Jungkook was exempted from military service. Jin (born Kim Seok-jin), the leader of the group, would have his turn next.
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Why Wasn’t Jin Conscribed Sooner?
There are a few reasons why Jin, as a member of the older age group, was not called up for conscription as early as some of the other members, including Jimin and V.
Table: Korean Men and Military Conscription
| Age Group | Service Time |
|---|---|
| 28 | 21-30 months |
| 27-28 | 21-30 months |
| 22-26 | 26-28 months |
Before Jin turned 27 years old, there were many other K-pop idols of similar ages who had joined the military, such as EXO’s D.O. in 2018 and Super Junior’s Donghae in 2017. However, the Ministry of National Defense made it clear that conscription exceptions would be granted for male K-pop artists based on their impact on Korean music and culture. This paved the way for Jin, as a crucial member of BTS, to avoid mandatory military service at that point.
The ‘K-pop Exception’ and Jin’s Delayed Conscription
BTS’s enormous global fan base and numerous achievements on the Billboard charts made their case for exceptional treatment quite strong. Jin’s talent as a singer, as well as his important leadership role within the group, further solidified his exempt status. When he turned 27 in September 2018, Jin applied for and was granted exemption from military service>.
The Delay of Jin’s Conscription (2019-2023)
Instead of serving his country’s military in the normal 21-30 month window, Jin received an extra two years’ notice from the government to fulfill his duties as a BTS member, including attending award ceremonies and participating in fan meetings and concerts. During this time, Jin remained dedicated to the group’s work, continuously releasing new music and perfecting their choreography, while also spreading positive values and messages to their international fan base, Armys.
Highlights of Jin’s Pre-Draft Life:
- Released BTS’s highly popular album, Love Yourself: Tear (2018)
- Debuted as a soloist in the single "Epiphany" (2018)
- Hosted the 2020 MMA (Mnet Asian Music Awards) and won a Daesang award (Best Artist)
- Starred in Love Yourself: Speak Yourself Tour (2019)
- Became an official Instagram influencer and used the platform to spread positive awareness
Is Jin Ready to Enlist? (2023-present)
Fast-forward to February 13, 2023: Jin finally announced that he would enlist in the military on December 30, 2022, at the age of 30. Jin revealed that he decided to step forward voluntarily to honor the country that had allowed K-pop to grow, along with the wishes of their fans, and the team’s overall KBS (Korean Broadcasting System) approval. It is unclear if his leadership role in the group will affect the other BTS members’ draft timing or if any exemptions will remain in place for future calls.
In conclusion, Jin’s decision to report for military service demonstrates respect for his nation’s commitment to defense, a duty shared by Korean citizens from all walks of life, including those who, like him, are integral to K-pop’s immense global popularity.
Will the Other BTS Members Also Enlist Soon? Only Time Will Tell!
Follow the journey of Jin’s military service, and for the latest K-pop updates, check our page.
