BTS Member J-Hope Concludes Military Service, Reunites with Fellow Band Member Jin

South Korean pop sensation BTS member J-Hope has been discharged from military duty after completing an 18-month service, marking his return to civilian life. The member, affectionately known as Hobi, is the second from the group to finish mandatory service, following Jin, the eldest member, who concluded his service earlier in the year. The discharge took place at a military base in Wonju, Gangwon province on Thursday.

In a moment of reunion, J-Hope was welcomed by Jin, who greeted him with a hug and a flower bouquet. This touching moment was documented and shared on social media platforms by fans who expressed their excitement. “Cried lakes when he left, I’m crying oceans on his warm return!” exclaimed one fan via X, previously known as Twitter.

Despite the celebratory mood, the remaining members of the group—RM, V, Jimin, Suga, and Jungkook—were notably absent from the festivities. This absence was expected as BIGHIT Music, the group’s management company, had previously advised fans to refrain from visiting the site to avoid overcrowding and ensure safety. The company expressed their thanks to supporters, emphasizing, “No special events are planned on the day of J-Hope’s discharge.”

With J-Hope’s discharge, preparations are underway for the anticipated reunion of BTS. The group’s remaining members began their service in December 2023, halting the band’s collective music activities. Fans look forward to a full group reunion in 2025 upon the conclusion of all members’ military duties.

J-Hope, expressing gratitude for the unwavering support of fans, shared sentiments on completing his service safely and healthily. “Thanks to the fans, I was able to finish it safely, with health,” he said, acknowledging the hard work and dedication of his fellow soldiers during his tenure in the army.

BTS, a global phenomenon in the music industry, has achieved significant commercial success since their debut in 2013. According to Chartmasters, a music industry research firm, BTS ranks 41st among top global artists, having sold over 56 million albums and singles worldwide.

Under South Korean law, all able-bodied men between the ages of 18 and 28 are required to serve in the military. However, due to BTS’s global recognition, revisions were made to the conscription law in 2020 allowing the band members to defer their service until the age of 30.