BTS members will be required to serve in the military beginning with the oldest member, Jin, according to their agency on Monday (Oct 17).
“All other members will also serve mandatory military duty according to their plans,” their management group HYBE said in a regulatory filing.
The announcement follows the group’s Saturday concert in Busan in support of South Korea’s bid to host World Expo 2030 in the southern port city.
According to the Yonhap News Agency, the free concert, titled BTS In BUSAN, drew approximately 52,000 people to a stadium.
As per Busan Metropolitan City officials, 100,000 people were expected to visit the stadium and other areas, with some fans watching the event live on large screens set up in various locations throughout the city.
The concert came after the seven-member band announced a break from group musical activities in June to pursue solo projects, raising concerns about the band’s future.
Military service is highly contentious in South Korea, where all able-bodied men between the ages of 18 and 28 are required to serve as part of efforts to defend against nuclear-armed North Korea.
“If the seven BTS members feel the same way and if you guys have faith in us, we will overcome whatever happens to us in the future and we will perform with you guys and make music. Please have faith in us,” BTS leader RM told fans during the concert, without elaborating further.
BTS Timeline Overview
BTS made its debut in June 2013 and became a worldwide sensation with its upbeat hits and social campaigns aimed at empowering young people.
The group met US President Joe Biden at the White House in May to discuss hate crimes against Asians. – Reuters
BTS became the first Asian band to win artist of the year at the American Music Awards last year.
Source: TheStar, Photo Credit: The White House on Twitter
