BTS, South Korea’s most lucrative musical act, has been on a hiatus since 2022 while its seven members complete their military service.
Hundreds of fans gathered at a site near the two army bases where band leader RM – recently named “Favorite K-pop Artist” at the American Music Awards – and singer V were separately discharged.
Cheers broke out as they stepped out of vehicles and hugged, with RM playing a quick song on the saxophone as V stood next to him smiling, holding bunches of flowers.
“What we want most right now is to perform again,” RM, still wearing his army uniform, said after his discharge.
“We’re working hard on the new album so we can return to the stage as soon as possible.”
RM said there had been “many difficult and painful moments” during his 18 months of military service.
“Since returning, I’ve grown closer with my father and old friends – many of whom had already completed their military service,” he added.
V said military service was “a time for me to reset and rebuild both my body and mind”.
“Now that I’ve done that, I truly want to run straight to ARMY as soon as possible,” he said, referring to the band’s official fandom name.
This week, four BTS members will complete their service. Two were discharged last year, and the final member, Suga – who has been working as a social service agent for alternative non-active duty service – will be released later this month.
Hybe, the band’s agency, had urged fans not to go to the discharge location, citing safety concerns. Flouting the warning, dozens gathered outside V’s military base, eagerly awaiting the return of their star. (AFP)
