The wait is finally over for ARMY worldwide. Suga, the final member of global K-pop phenomenon BTS to complete mandatory military service in South Korea, has been officially discharged. His completion marks a pivotal moment, paving the way for the highly anticipated reunion of all seven members in 2025.
Suga, a key rapper and songwriter for the septet, fulfilled his military obligation through alternative service as a social service agent. His discharge, confirmed by the group’s label, follows a period where he used remaining leave before his official release date on Saturday, June 21, 2025. While Big Hit Entertainment stated no special events were planned for his immediate return to prevent overcrowding, the significance of the occasion was immense for fans.
The Long Road to Reunion
Under South Korean law, most able-bodied men aged 18 to 28 are required to perform 18-21 months of military service. While exemptions exist for certain athletes and performers enhancing national prestige, K-pop stars typically are not included. However, a 2020 revision allowed artists like BTS to postpone service until age 30. Despite a public debate in 2022 about potential special exemptions, the group’s management ultimately announced all members would fulfill their duty, leading to staggered enlistments beginning in December 2022.
Jin, the oldest member, was the first to enlist and completed his service in June 2024. His return was met with an emotional welcome from fellow members, including RM humorously playing the saxophone, and he quickly re-engaged with fans through livestreams and a special fan hug event in Seoul. J-Hope followed, completing his service and concluding a successful solo global tour shortly before Suga’s discharge.
The remaining four members – RM, V, Jimin, and Jungkook – enlisted together in December 2023. They were discharged in quick succession just days before Suga, with RM and V returning on June 10, 2025, and Jimin and Jungkook on June 11, 2025. Their returns were celebrated by ARMY, particularly the reunion of “Jikook,” and marked a significant step with six of the seven members now out of service.
Anticipation Builds: 2025 is the “BTS Year”
With Suga’s discharge, all seven members – Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook – have now completed their mandatory duties. This milestone ignites fervent anticipation for their full group comeback, which Big Hit Entertainment has indicated is planned for sometime in 2025.
ARMY worldwide has eagerly awaited this moment for over two years since the group paused full activities to fulfill their service. Social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) have been buzzing with excitement, with fans declaring 2025 the “BTS Year” and relevant hashtags trending globally. The return of each member has been a cause for celebration, building momentum towards the ultimate reunion of “OT7.”
Adding to the excitement is the timing of BTS Festa 2025, the group’s annual celebration of their debut anniversary (June 13). Held shortly after the majority of members’ discharges, this year’s Festa, themed ‘Twelve O’Clock,’ included expanded offline events at KINTEX in Goyang and diverse online content. The timing fueled speculation among fans about potential surprise appearances or announcements related to the group’s future activities.
Industry experts and fans alike are eager to see the new synergies and evolution among the members. After pursuing successful solo careers during their hiatus, the group’s next chapter is expected to showcase their individual maturation and collective growth.
The countdown to BTS’s highly anticipated return as a complete group is officially underway, promising an exhilarating new phase for the global superstars and their dedicated fanbase.
