BTS members RM and V leave military, tease group reunion

BTS members RM and V were officially discharged from South Korea’s mandatory military service on Tuesday, marking another step toward the highly anticipated reunion of the global K-pop group.

The two, dressed in full army uniform, saluted cheering fans outside the military base and said they are ready to return to the stage.

With Jin and J-Hope already discharged earlier and now pursuing solo careers and media appearances, fans are now counting down the days until the group is complete again.

The remaining members, Jimin, Jung Kook and Suga, are expected to finish their service by June 21, according to media reports.

Speaking to fans, RM said he was eager to get back on stage. “(Members) would feel the same, but stage performance, I want to perform the most. I'll work hard to make an album soon and come back to the stage,” he said, after playing the saxophone for the crowd.

V, who also waved and posed with fans, did not speak but smiled throughout the appearance. Both received flowers as fans celebrated their return. Supporters from around the world had flown to South Korea to witness the moment.

"It is just absolutely joyful. That is now four out, two again tomorrow and then Suga. Then we have OT7, we have seven kings back with us," said Philip Darbyshire, a 72-year-old fan from Australia. "It is just wonderful."

Entertainment company HYBE, which manages BTS, is planning a major event called BTS FESTA this week to mark the group’s 12th anniversary.

While it is not confirmed if the members will attend, Jin made a surprise appearance last year. Fans hope more members will show up this time, especially as the full group nears reunion.

BTS has not released a group project since 2022, with members focusing on solo work and national service.

However, J-Hope hinted at a comeback in a past interview. “After pursuing our own little ventures, we are now coming back together, and I love that for us,” he said in December.

Excitement has also lifted the group’s management firm. Shares in HYBE rose by 2.3 percent, reaching their highest level in more than three years following news of the discharges.

With four of the seven members now out of the army, BTS fans worldwide are preparing for what they hope will be a full return of the band that has reshaped global pop culture.