BTS’ j-hope to return from military, agency discourages fans from visiting site

BTS fans rejoice! Korean pop star and BTS member j-hope has almost completed his mandatory conscription and will soon be discharged from the military, Soompi reported.

BigHit music, BTS and J-hope’s agency, discouraged fans from visiting the location where he will be discharged. “No special events are planned on the day of j-hope’s discharge. To prevent any issues arising from overcrowding, fans are strongly advised to refrain from visiting the site,” it said in a statement.

BigHit requested that fans convey their regards and encouragement in their hearts.

“We are always grateful for your unwavering love and support for j-hope. Our company will continue to put our utmost effort into supporting our artists.”

All able-bodied men in South Korea aged between 18 and 28 must serve in the military for between 18 and 21 months as part of efforts to defend against nuclear-armed North Korea. Some categories, however, have won exemptions, or served shorter terms, including Olympics and Asian Games medal winners and classical musicians and dancers who win top prizes at certain competitions. Some lawmakers had called for BTS to be exempted, however, the band did enlist in the military.

Usually, local fans flock to the site of K-pop stars’ military discharge, bringing them presents and cheering them on.

BTS’ oldest member, Kim Seokjin, better known by his stage name Jin was discharged from his mandatory service in June. The remaining members will be discharged in the summer of 2025.