K-pop megastar Jin from BTS completed over 500 days of South Korean military service on Wednesday, shedding tears of joy as his bandmates embraced him and celebrated with a group hit on the saxophone.
The seven members of the world’s most popular boy band have been on a break since 2022 due to their military service obligation in South Korea, required for all men under 30 due to tensions with North Korea.
Jin, the oldest member of the group and the first to enlist, emerged from his army base in South Korea’s Yeoncheon county on Wednesday morning, greeted by bandmates J-hope, V, RM, Jungkook, and Jimin.
The K-pop stars, who reportedly took leave to celebrate, welcomed Jin with a bouquet of flowers while RM played the saxophone, performing BTS’s hit “Dynamite”.
Fans expressed their support with banners outside the base, congratulating Jin on his discharge and praising his service.
Jin will participate in a “huggathon” on Thursday, hugging 1,000 fans who won a raffle, before returning to solo performances.
– ‘Huggathon’ –
Following his discharge, Jin shared his gratitude and excitement, mentioning his plans for the future including solo materials and performances.
The completion of Jin’s military service marks a positive milestone for BTS and entertainment stock prices, with expectations of increased profitability and performance.
The next BTS member to finish their service will be J-hope, while the rest of the band is scheduled to complete their military obligations by June 2025.
