What's happened
Four BTS members have been discharged from South Korea's military, with Suga set to be discharged on June 21, 2025, completing their mandatory service. The group is expected to reunite later this year, much to fans' excitement. No events are planned for Suga's discharge to prevent overcrowding.
What's behind the headline?
What the papers say
The AP articles provide detailed timelines and context about BTS's military service, emphasizing the significance of their discharge and future reunion plans. Gulf News offers insights into the group's activities and fan reactions, highlighting their cultural impact and the emotional significance of their service completion. Contrasting perspectives from different sources underscore the group's dual role as entertainers and social figures, with AP focusing on the procedural aspects and Gulf News capturing fan sentiment and behind-the-scenes moments. This comprehensive coverage illustrates how BTS's military discharge is both a personal milestone and a strategic cultural event, reinforcing their influence worldwide.
How we got here
BTS members enlisted for mandatory military service in South Korea, with most serving in active duty and some, like Suga, fulfilling alternative social service due to health reasons. The group postponed their enlistment until age 30 following revised legislation, and their discharge marks a significant milestone in their career. The group debuted in 2013, gained international fame, and has been active in social justice campaigns, including UN initiatives and donations to Black Lives Matter.
Go deeper
More on these topics
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BTS, also known as the Bangtan Boys, is a seven-member South Korean boy band who began formation in 2010 and debuted in 2013. The septet co-writes and produces much of their output.
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South Korea, officially the Republic of Korea, is a country in East Asia, constituting the southern part of the Korean Peninsula and sharing a land border with North Korea.