SEOUL — BTS members RM and V were officially discharged from South Korea’s military on Tuesday, marking a major step toward the K-pop supergroup’s long-anticipated comeback.
The two idols, still in uniform, greeted dozens of cheering fans outside the base and expressed gratitude for the support during their service. Both hinted at an imminent return to the stage.
BTS has been on hiatus as members fulfill their mandatory military duty, a requirement for most able-bodied South Korean men. RM and V join Jin and J-Hope, who completed their service earlier and have since resumed solo activities.
The remaining members — Jimin, Jung Kook, and Suga — are expected to complete their military terms by June 21, according to media reports.
Fans, known collectively as ARMY, are looking forward to the group’s full return. BTS has not released a group project since 2022 but has continued to thrive individually.
HYBE, the group’s agency, is hosting its annual BTS FESTA this week to celebrate BTS’ 12th anniversary. While member appearances have not been confirmed, last year’s event featured Jin shortly after his discharge.
RM, holding a bouquet after his discharge, said he was eager to return to performing and planned to work on a new album. Fans from around the globe gathered to celebrate, including one 72-year-old Australian fan who described the reunion as “absolutely joyful.”
With four members now out of service and three more close behind, the full seven-member BTS comeback appears just on the horizon — much to the delight of millions of fans worldwide.