It’s bowling time for J-hope. The K-pop megastar and member of the group BTS was discharged on Thursday after 18 months of military service. Dozens of fans, some in tears, came to celebrate his return to civilian life. He then took the opportunity to salute the “sacrifice” of the soldiers who ensure the security of South Korea.
The world’s most popular boy band has been on hiatus since 2022, its seven members having to complete the military service that South Korea imposes on all men under 30 due to tensions with the North.
Jin on hand to hug J-hope
When J-hope, the group’s main dancer, walked out of the Wongju military base, Jin, another member of the group who finished his service in June, came to hug him. Admirers brandishing colorful posters also came to welcome him: “the sun is finally shining on ARMY” could be read on their banners, in reference to the group’s fan community.
“Over the past year and a half, I have realized that many soldiers are making enormous efforts and sacrifices to protect the country,” J-hope said. “I deeply appreciate the support and love you have shown me,” he told his fans, before getting into a car.
A positive demobilization for K-pop
This new demobilization should be beneficial to the K-pop industry, according to experts. “The return of J-hope is certainly like refreshing rain for HYBE after a long dry period,” explains Yoo Sung-man, analyst at Leading Investment and Securities. HYBE, BTS’ agency, is in the middle of a legal battle with Min Hee-jin, the producer of the K-pop girl group NewJeans, who headed one of its subsidiaries. Added to this is an investigation after an electric scooter accident caused by another member of BTS, Suga, at the start of the year, in a drunken state, which caused HYBE shares to plummet.
“Unless all BTS members complete their military service and make their full comeback, J-hope’s solo comeback may not be enough to completely eclipse the conflict” with the producer, Yoo Sung-adds, however. man. The remaining members of the group are expected to have completed their military service in June 2025. Jin announced Monday that he will release his first solo album in November.
