When is Jimin going to the military?
As a member of BTS (), a South Korean boy band, Jimin () is required to serve in the military as per the laws of South Korea. Every able-bodied Korean male between the ages of 18 and 28 is mandatory to serve in the military for a minimum of 18-21 months.
Background on South Korean Military Service
In South Korea, military service is a significant aspect of society, and it is obligatory for all able-bodied male citizens to serve in the military. The country is still technically at war with North Korea, and the government sees military service as an essential part of national security.
Jimin’s Military Service Requirements
Age: Jimin, whose real name is Park Ji-min, was born on October 13, 1995, making him 27 years old as of 2023. According to South Korean law, he is at the age where he must serve in the military. He will be reaching the mandatory military service age soon.
Classification: As a celebrity, Jimin is classified as an "Artist-M musician", which means he will be serving in a shorter period compared to civilians. The duration will be around 18 months.
Possible Options for Jimin’s Military Service
1. Training Camp: Jimin, like other celebrities, might be sent to a specialized training camp for 30-60 days where he will undergo rigorous military training. This will serve as a preparatory course for his actual military service.
2. Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC): Another possibility is that Jimin will join the ROTC, a program that trains cadets in military skills. He will attend basic training for 5 months, followed by an 18-month active duty stint.
3. Immediate Active Duty: Jimin might be assigned to serve immediately in the military without any additional training, as is the case for most civilians.
Timelines for Jimin’s Military Service
Timeline 1: If Jimin joins the training camp, he might be seen in public during the preparation period, which could start as early as Spring 2023. He would then report to his assigned military unit afterwards.
Timeline 2: If Jimin opts for the ROTC or immediate active duty, it’s likely that he would report to his military unit in the Fall 2023.
Public Reaction and Concerns
Concerns over Health: Fans and followers are worried about Jimin’s health, as K-pop idols often face extreme physical demands. Military service can be physically and emotionally challenging, and fans hope that Jimin will not be overworked.
Support for Jimin
Fans: Jimin’s fans, known as "Jiminies", are rallying around him, expressing their support and affection for their beloved idol.
Colleagues and Fellow Idols: His fellow BTS members, Jin, Suga, RM, J-Hope, V, Jungkook, and the group as a whole, have offered words of encouragement and solidarity.
What’s Next for Jimin?
Military Service: Although the exact timeline is still uncertain, Jimin is expected to serve in the military soon.
Band Activities: While Jimin is away, BTS is expected to continue producing and releasing music, as well as performing at concerts and events.
Post-Military Plans: After serving his military duty, Jimin will likely return to his music career, which has been put on pause temporarily.
Conclusion:
Jimin’s mandatory military service is an upcoming reality, and fans can expect to see him dedicate himself to his country, just like his fellow countrymen. While it will be a significant adjustment, Jimin’s fans trust that he will return refreshed and rejuvenated, with an even stronger passion for music and his fans.
