K-pop idols RM and V of BTS were officially discharged from their 18-month military service on Tuesday, June 10. Thousands of fans eagerly welcomed their return, carrying colorful banners and messages of love. It was one of the most anticipated events for ARMY since the group went on hiatus in 2022.
Four of the seven members of BTS are expected to return this week. Jin and J-Hope were discharged last year, while SUGA is expected to be released on June 21 after completing alternative service. According to BTS' agency HYBE, fans have been advised to avoid going to discharge sites for safety reasons, but fans cannot contain their excitement to see their idols again.
A fan from the Philippines, Arlene Mendoza, was emotional at the opportunity to see V in person. “It was a mix of emotions. I felt like crying,” she said as she waited outside the camp. Many fans from around the world also traveled to South Korea to witness the historic comeback.
As part of BTS FESTA this June, along with the release of several members, concerts and fan events are expected. There are banners at HYBE HQ with the message, “WE ARE BACK”—a sign of the group's gradual return to the spotlight.
Analysts expect the K-pop industry to rebound with BTS's return. Even before their military service, they were estimated to have added ₩5.5 trillion or $4 billion to the South Korean economy—equivalent to about 0.2% of the country's GDP.
