The last four members of legendary K-pop group BTS who have not yet completed their military service have begun the process of joining the South Korean army, their label announced Wednesday.
• Also read: South Korea: Suga becomes the third BTS member to join the army
• Also read: South Korean group BTS publishes memoir
• Also read: Five things you should know about BTS, K-pop superstars celebrating their 10th anniversary
Within ten years, the septet has become a global cultural phenomenon, bringing colossal amounts of money to the South Korean economy and being followed by an international “legion” of fans called the ARMY.
But all able-bodied South Korean men must complete at least 18 months of military service. After a years-long debate over whether BTS deserved an exception, Jin, the group’s eldest, took up his duties in December, his bandmate J-Hope in April and a third member, SUGA, in September.
The group’s four remaining members – RM, Jimin, V and Jung Kook – are expected to launch their own label soon, their label BIGHIT MUSIC said in a statement.
“We would like to inform our fans that RM, Jimin, V and Jung Kook have begun military recruitment,” the label announced.
“We ask that you continue to love and support RM, Jimin, V and Jung Kook until they complete their military service,” the statement continued.
Analysts question the group’s future once the seven members are relieved of their military obligations.
Some male K-pop stars have had difficulty resuming their careers after serving in the military, in an industry where artists are easily replaceable.
Last year, BTS announced they were taking a “hiatus,” citing fatigue and their members’ desire to focus on their solo careers. Some saw this as a result of the specter of conscription.
However, the HYBE agency announced in September that the group’s seven members had all renewed their contracts with it, suggesting that they intend to resume their careers once they return to civilian life.