BTS Jungkook and Jimin Complete Military Service with Sharp Salutes
The two youngest BTS members return from 18-month mandatory service, bringing group closer to reunion
YEONCHEON, South Korea - BTS members Jimin and Jungkook completed their mandatory military service on June 11, 2025, greeting fans with crisp salutes at Yeoncheon Public Stadium after serving 18 months in the Army's 5th Infantry Division.
The two vocalists, who enlisted together on December 12, 2023, appeared at the stadium holding bouquets and delivered brief messages to hundreds of gathered fans and media.
"Thank you to everyone who came. It's been a long time since I've been in front of a camera-I didn't even wear makeup today, so I feel a little embarrassed," Jungkook said, laughing. "I'm not sure what to say."
Jimin added: "Thank you so much for coming all this way to see us. And to ARMY, thank you for waiting for such a long time-from the pandemic through to our military service."
Both members gave a sharp salute and shouted "Dan-gyeol!"-a Korean military expression meaning unity.
Jimin and Jungkook's discharge follows RM and V, who returned on June 10. Jin and J-Hope completed their service in 2024, while Suga, serving as a public service worker due to a shoulder injury, will be discharged on June 21.
HYBE displayed "WE ARE BACK" signage on its Seoul headquarters, signaling the group's imminent reunion.
BIGHIT Music had arranged for the members to meet fans at designated locations rather than military bases due to safety concerns. "No special events are planned on the day of discharge," the agency stated, citing space limitations and safety risks.
The timing aligns perfectly with BTS FESTA 2025, scheduled for June 13-14 at KINTEX in Goyang, marking the group's 12th debut anniversary and their first major gathering since beginning military service.
J-Hope will also hold his 'HOPE ON THE STREET FINAL' concert on the same dates, making it a comprehensive celebration of BTS's return.
South Korean law requires all able-bodied men to serve 18-21 months in the military. BTS's decision to enlist came after debates about potential exemptions for cultural contributors, but the group chose to fulfill their duties as citizens.
With six members now discharged and Suga's return scheduled for June 21, BTS is set for their complete reunion by the end of the month, ending a hiatus that began when they announced their military service plans in 2022.
