BTS gathered to celebrate Jin‘s completion of his mandatory military service today in Yeoncheon, South Korea. He is the first band member to finish his service.
In videos and photos shared by the media, the six BTS members can be seen together outside the military base, with Jin, born Kim Seok-jin, holding a bouquet of flowers. BTS member RM played an abridged version of the group’s hit song “Dynamite” on the saxophone while bandmates hugged and Jin waved to the cameras.
Earlier this week, the group’s agency BigHit Music confirmed Jin had completed his service. “We are excited to bring you the news of Jin’s upcoming military discharge,” BigHit Music shared in a statement. “Jin is close to completing his active service in the army and will soon be discharged.”
BigHit Music requested that fans not crowd the discharge site. “Please note that the discharge day is reserved for military personnel only,” the agency said. “No special events are planned on the day of Jin’s discharge. To prevent any issues arising from overcrowding, fans are strongly advised to refrain from visiting the site. Please convey your warm regards and encouragement in your hearts.”
Jin will celebrate separately with fans tomorrow, June 13. BigHit announced the singer will hold a meet-and-greet with BTS ARMY members and a performance, set to be streamed live on Weverse.
In January, one year into his service, Jin began teasing plans for his return. Celebrating the New Year, he shared a pre-recorded video with fans, saying: “I’m leaving this video so you can watch my pretty, handsome face and spend January and February warmly. I miss you all. I miss you a lot,” he added. “Wait just a bit more and you’ll be able to see me with short hair. I’ll grow my hair quickly this year and I’ll be able to start working hard soon.”
With Jin returning, BTS ARMY are counting down the days until the remaining members complete their service duties. J-Hope enlisted on April 18, 2023; Suga enlisted on Sept. 22, 2023; V and RM enlisted on Dec. 11, 2023; and Junk Kook and Jimin both enlisted on Dec. 12, 2023.
BTS announced they would go on hiatus in 2022 so all seven members could complete their miliatry service requirements. The group is expected to reconvene in 2025.