BTS' RM, V discharged from military service
BTS' RM, left, and V salute after being discharged from their military service in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, Tuesday. Yonhap
RM and V, members of K-pop megagroup BTS, were discharged from South Korea's mandatory military service Tuesday, becoming the third and fourth of the septet to complete their duty.
The two artists enlisted in December 2023, with RM serving in the Army's military band and V assigned to a special mission unit under the military police. Their discharge follows that of Jin and J-Hope, who completed their service in June and October last year, respectively.
Jimin and Jungkook are scheduled to be discharged Wednesday, while Suga, who served as a social service agent due to health issues, is expected to complete his duty June 21.
In South Korea, all able-bodied men are required to serve between 18 and 21 months in the military.
The upcoming discharges mark a key step toward BTS' highly anticipated full-group return to the music scene.
Last week, V signaled his readiness to resume activities, telling fans on the Weverse platform: "ARMY, I want to see you soon. You've waited for me," using the name for BTS' fandom.
Hybe, the parent company of BTS' label, BigHit Music, wrapped its headquarters in Seoul with BTS and ARMY logos and the phrase "We Are Back," a message that will remain in place through June 29, coinciding with the group's debut anniversary on June 13.
"This phrase feels even more special as all the members have completed their military service and are returning to their fans," Hybe said in a release.
"With Jin and J-Hope, who returned earlier, actively pursuing their solo activities, expectations for BTS' group projects are also growing."