J-Hope says 'Take Three' of his life has begun
BTS member J-Hope greets fans and reporters outside the main gate of the 36th Army Infantry Division after completing his mandatory military service in Wonju, Gangwon Province, Oct. 17. Yonhap
J-Hope, a member of the K-pop sensation BTS, has returned from his mandatory military service and is gearing up to begin the "third chapter" of his life, the artist said Thursday.
J-Hope, whose real name is Jung Ho-seok, was officially discharged earlier in the day after completing 18 months of service at an Army boot camp in Wonju, Gangwon Province. He was welcomed by Jin, the band's eldest member who was discharged earlier this year, upon his arrival outside the military base.
"Take Three of J-Hope's life has begun," he said during a live Weverse session, referencing the name of the band's 2023 digital single, "Take Two." "I'll focus on losing weight and working out, so that I can return to you with a beautiful appearance and show you a lot of amazing activities."
The 30-year-old expressed gratitude for the support he received during his time away.
"I took a break as Jung Ho-seok, but now I'm back as J-Hope," he said with a smile. "I'll lead you on a path of flowers."
Reflecting on the letters and messages he received from fans, he acknowledged the deep connection he felt.
"I read so many of your letters. It really hit me how many people genuinely support BTS and me, J-Hope," he said. "I felt how sincere those emotions were, and I'm so thankful."
Looking back on his time in the military, J-Hope said he has no regrets.
"I matured a lot and came out healthy," he said, adding his role as an assistant drill instructor was a rewarding experience. "Living in Wonju and working as a training instructor was great, and honestly, the food was delicious."
As for what comes next, J-Hope remained tight-lipped on specifics but promised big things ahead.
"I'll continue to show you my best," he said. "Some activities are already planned, but there are still details to work out, so I'll keep checking on that."
He signed off with a heartfelt message to his fans, known as ARMY: "Now that I've taken off the beret and military uniform, I think it's time to show you BTS' J-Hope again, not Sgt. Jung Ho-seok. I love you all." (Yonhap)