[BTS #02] How Military Service Shaped BTS Comebacks – A Timeline of Pause and Power

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 How BTS members' military service shaped their solo projects, public image, and global comeback strategy. A detailed timeline of enlistments, discharges, and the anticipated OT7 reunion.


Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Mandatory Military Service: A Pause, Not an End
  3. Solo Projects as a Form of Growth
  4. A Narrative of Maturity and Return
  5. Timed Comebacks and Global Hype
  6. Visual Timeline: BTS Military Service & Comeback
  7. Conclusion
  8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Introduction

As South Korea’s most influential global artists, BTS faced a national duty that every able-bodied Korean man must fulfill: military service. But for BTS, this was not the end—it was a transformation. Their journey through enlistment, solo projects, and eventual return reveals how military service reshaped not only their careers, but also K-pop history itself.

Mandatory Military Service: A Pause, Not an End

South Korea mandates that all men serve roughly 18 to 21 months in the military. For BTS, this began in late 2022 when Jin enlisted. As each member followed, their group activities were paused. However, this was carefully planned—what appeared to be a hiatus was, in fact, a strategic moment for reflection, creativity, and individual exploration.

Solo Projects as a Form of Growth

During the military service gap, BTS members launched some of their most personal and daring projects yet. J-Hope's "Jack in the Box," RM’s introspective "Indigo," and Jungkook’s pop-centered "Golden" reflected their distinct styles. These weren’t just side projects—they were declarations of identity, made possible by a momentary step back from the group.

A Narrative of Maturity and Return

Military service added a powerful layer of maturity to the BTS storyline. Public perception shifted from seeing them as a global boy band to recognizing them as seven individuals with stories of sacrifice, growth, and renewal. Fans, media, and even economic analysts began to talk not just about comeback dates, but about legacy.

Timed Comebacks and Global Hype

The team’s return from military service has been carefully staggered. Each discharge has brought a surge of online activity and fan mobilization. As of June 2025, J-Hope, Jin, RM, and V have all returned. With SUGA’s discharge coming on June 21, and only Jungkook left in service, the stage is being set for a full-group comeback in late 2025 or early 2026.



Visual Timeline: BTS Military Service & Comeback

Date Member Event Note
2022.12.13 Jin Enlisted (active duty) First BTS member to begin service
2023.04.18 J-Hope Enlisted (active duty) Released “Jack in the Box” before service
2023.09.22 SUGA Began service (social service worker) Completed world tour & solo activities
2023.12.11 RM & V Enlisted simultaneously RM: Known for “Indigo”, V: Released “Layover”
2023.12.12 Jungkook Enlisted Released “Golden” prior to enlistment
2024.10.17 J-Hope Discharged Appeared at HYBE events and exhibitions
2024.12.12 Jin Discharged Celebrated return with ARMY live broadcast
2025.06.10 RM & V Discharged Fan messages and photos released
2025.06.21 SUGA Scheduled discharge Return expected to be quiet and private
2025.12~ All OT7 full-group comeback (expected) HYBE hints at major album and tour plans

Conclusion

Military service did not weaken BTS—it redefined them. Each member used the time to grow creatively and emotionally. The result is not only a stronger group, but a more mature and global-facing BTS. With the final members soon to return, their next chapter may well be their most impactful yet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Why did BTS members serve at different times?
HYBE and BTS coordinated staggered enlistments to maintain solo activity momentum and manage long-term brand strategy.

Q2. Why did SUGA serve as a social service worker?
Due to a prior shoulder injury and surgery, he was assigned to alternative (non-active duty) service.

Q3. When will BTS return as a full group?
Based on current discharge dates, the earliest likely timeframe for a full-group comeback is late 2025 to early 2026.

Q4. Did military service affect BTS’s global popularity?
No. Solo projects, pre-scheduled content, and global media attention helped BTS stay visible. In fact, the anticipation for their reunion has only increased their relevance.



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