BTS military service

Photo Credit: Vogue Taiwan / CC by 3.0

Big Hit Music reveals official plans for the mandatory military enlistment of BTS members RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook, following the enlistment of bandmates Suga, Jin, and J-Hope.

On Tuesday, December 5, Big Hit Music released a statement about the upcoming military enlistment plans of BTS members RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook, following an announcement in November that the four were preparing for their mandatory South Korean military enlistment. Previously, Suga became the third member of BTS to enlist after Jin and J-Hope.

“RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook will fulfill their required time with the military by enlisting in the army,” writes Big Hit Music. “RM and V will be enlisting according to their respective procedures, while Jimin and Jungkook are scheduled to enlist together.”

“Please note that there will be no official event on the day of their entry. The entrance ceremony is a time to be observed by military personnel and their families only,” the statement continues. “To prevent any issues that might occur from crowding, fans are advised to refrain from visiting the site. Please convey your warm regards and encouragement in your hearts only.”

“We also advise you not to get adversely affected by purchasing unauthorized tours or product packages that illegally use the artist’s IP. Our company will take necessary action against any attempts at commercial activity making unauthorized use of such IP,” Big Hit Music cautions.

In response to reports that RM and V will enlist at a recruit training center on December 11, while Jimin and Jungkook will enlist together on December 12, Big Hit Music remarked that they cannot confirm those dates — undoubtedly in an effort to protect the guys’ privacy and prevent fans from showing up uninvited to send them off.

Notably, Suga is the only member of BTS to enlist as a social service agent rather than an active duty soldier to complete his mandatory service. He underwent shoulder surgery in 2020, which likely led to the need for an alternative method of service. In South Korea, all physically able men between ages 18 and 28 are required to serve two years in the military.

In September, Big Hit Music and HYBE revealed that BTS would be renewing their contracts following their completion of military service. After a board resolution with Big Hit Music, each member of BTS is said to be planning to sign exclusive agreements with the company, including future releases starting in 2025.