The Wait is Over: BTS’s Suga Completes Military Service, Paving Way for Historic Reunion
Seoul, South Korea – The final chapter of BTS members fulfilling South Korea’s mandatory military service has closed. Suga, the acclaimed rapper and songwriter of the global K-pop phenomenon, has been discharged, marking the official return of all seven members from their national duties.
Big Hit Entertainment, BTS’s management agency, confirmed that Suga completed his alternative service duties on Wednesday, June 19th, after utilizing his remaining leave. His official discharge date is Saturday, June 22nd. Due to a prior shoulder injury, Suga fulfilled his obligation as a social service agent, an alternative form of service, while six of his bandmates served in the active army.
Out of caution for potential overcrowding and safety, Big Hit Entertainment previously stated that no special events were planned for Suga’s release day. The label sincerely requested fans to convey their warm regards and encouragement from afar rather than visiting the sites in person.
A Momentous Occasion for ARMY
This milestone is particularly significant for BTS’s dedicated fanbase, known as ARMY. For over two years, fans have eagerly awaited the day when all seven members—Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook—would complete their service, allowing the group to potentially reconvene. The anticipation has been palpable, with fans on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) declaring 2025 “the year of BTS” as the expected timeframe for a full group comeback.
The completion of Suga’s service follows the recent discharges of his fellow members:
Jin, the oldest member, was the first to enlist in December 2022 and was discharged in June 2024. His return was met by several bandmates, including RM, who memorably welcomed him playing a saxophone. Jin also held a special event to hug 1,000 fans shortly after his release.
J-Hope was discharged in October 2024. He later shared his gratitude to ARMY for waiting, promising that BTS would “return with a really cool performance.”
RM and V completed their service last week, having enlisted in December 2023.
Jimin and Jung Kook were discharged just one day later, on June 11th, also having enlisted in December 2023. Their discharge was noted as an “emotional milestone,” with the duo reportedly seen smiling and interacting happily upon their return.
Now, with Suga’s discharge, all seven members have successfully fulfilled their obligations.
Understanding South Korea’s Military Service
Under South Korean law, able-bodied men aged 18 to 28 are typically required to perform 18-21 months of military service. While special exemptions exist for top athletes and classical artists, K-pop stars do not automatically qualify. However, a revision in 2020 allowed prominent K-pop artists to delay their enlistment until age 30. Despite heated public debate in 2022 regarding potential special treatment, BTS and their agency announced that all members would fulfill their duties, putting an end to the discussion.
Looking Ahead to 2025
With the mandatory service period completed for everyone, attention now firmly shifts to the anticipated BTS group reunion in 2025. HYBE, the group’s company, has indicated that 2025 is the target year for their much-awaited comeback, likely happening later in the year after all members have had time to transition back.
Events like the upcoming BTS Festa 2025, the group’s traditional anniversary celebration scheduled for June 13th and 14th with offline fan events themed ‘Twelve O’Clock’, further fuel the excitement. While the full group comeback is expected later, these events mark a significant step towards the group’s future activities.
The completion of Suga’s service represents the final piece falling into place. The countdown to the highly anticipated OT7 (One True 7) reunion and a new era for BTS has officially entered its final stage.
