Four members of the BTS band have appealed to their fans to refrain from visiting army camps when they commence mandatory military service. RM, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook are set to enlist soon, possibly next week, according to reports. The K-pop stars, in a video posted on Tuesday, emphasized that their presence could be bothersome for fellow soldiers and their families. South Korea, still technically at war with North Korea, mandates nearly all able-bodied men to serve 18 months by the age of 28.
The band’s label, Big Hit Music, announced that the enlistments were imminent but did not specify dates. The label also urged fans to avoid visiting military bases on the enlistment day, as there would be no separate official events. The group, known as the ARMY, had previously gathered to bid farewell to three older members currently serving in the military.
During the live stream, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook discussed the band’s decision to take a break, emphasizing the need to focus on personal projects and prepare for military service. The members requested fans to avoid coming to the enlistment, acknowledging that it could be inconvenient for other soldiers and their families. While rumors circulated about potential exemptions for BTS due to their cultural impact, South Korea does not grant military service exemptions to K-pop stars, despite the band’s immense global popularity.
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