SEOUL: Two members of K-pop sensation BTS, V and RM, were discharged from South Korea’s mandatory military service on Tuesday, sparking excitement among fans worldwide.
The global supergroup has been on hiatus since 2022 as all seven members fulfill their military duties.
At separate military bases, fans gathered to welcome the two stars back, cheering as RM played a brief saxophone tune and V smiled, holding flowers.
Plans for a Comeback and Fan Reactions
After his discharge, RM expressed eagerness to perform again soon and revealed that he and the group are working hard on a new album.
He also reflected on the challenges during his 18 months of service and reconnecting with family and friends.
V described military service as a time for mental and physical renewal and said he is excited to reunite with ARMY, BTS’s devoted fanbase.
BTS Reunion and Economic Impact
Four BTS members will complete their service this week, with one final member set to be discharged later in June.
The band’s agency, HYBE, has encouraged fans to avoid gathering at military sites for safety reasons, but many still showed up to celebrate.
BTS has had a massive cultural and economic impact, contributing over $4 billion annually to South Korea’s economy — about 0.2% of the national GDP.
HYBE hinted at a potential BTS comeback later this year, with plans for new music and tours under discussion.
The group’s return has also positively influenced HYBE’s stock prices, which recently hit a two-year high.
