Which Members of BTS are in the Military?
As one of the most popular and influential K-pop groups in the world, BTS () has made a significant impact on the music industry and beyond. With their unique blend of music, fashion, and social activism, the group has captured the hearts of millions of fans worldwide. However, as with many South Korean celebrities, the members of BTS are required to serve in the military as part of their mandatory military service. In this article, we will explore which members of BTS are currently serving or have served in the military.
Background on Military Service in South Korea
In South Korea, all able-bodied men are required to serve in the military for a minimum of 18-21 months. This mandatory military service is a significant part of South Korean culture and is seen as a way to serve the country and develop patriotism. The military service age is typically between 18 and 28 years old, although some individuals may be exempt due to various reasons such as health issues or being a foreign-born citizen.
Current Members Serving in the Military
As of 2022, two members of BTS are currently serving in the military:
- Jin (): Jin enlisted in the South Korean Army on December 13, 2022, and is currently serving as a captain. He is expected to complete his military service in December 2024.
- J-Hope (): J-Hope enlisted in the South Korean Army on May 31, 2022, and is currently serving as a corporal. He is expected to complete his military service in May 2024.
Former Members Who Have Served in the Military
The following members of BTS have already completed their military service:
- Kim Seok-jin (Jin): Jin’s older brother, Kim Seok-jin, served in the South Korean Army from 2012 to 2014.
- Park Ji-min (Jimin): Jimin’s older brother, Park Ji-min, served in the South Korean Navy from 2012 to 2014.
Exemptions and Deferrals
In some cases, individuals may be exempt or deferred from military service due to various reasons such as:
- Health issues: Individuals with serious health issues may be exempt from military service.
- Foreign-born citizens: Foreign-born citizens may be exempt from military service, although they may still be required to serve in the military if they naturalize as South Korean citizens.
- Specialized skills: Individuals with specialized skills, such as doctors or engineers, may be deferred from military service to allow them to continue their work.
Timeline for Military Service
The following is a rough timeline for when the members of BTS are expected to serve in the military:
- 2022-2024: J-Hope and Jin are currently serving in the military.
- 2024-2025: RM, Suga, and Jungkook are expected to enlist in the military.
- 2025-2026: Jimin, V, and Jungkook are expected to enlist in the military.
Conclusion
As one of the most popular K-pop groups in the world, BTS has made a significant impact on the music industry and beyond. While some members of the group are currently serving in the military, others will soon follow. As with many South Korean celebrities, military service is a significant part of their career and is seen as a way to serve the country and develop patriotism.
