Good news coming your way ARMYs! Guess what? BTS might still be able to perform while serving in the military, according to South Korea’s Defense Minister, on Monday, August 1, 2022. The announcement came amidst the increasing debates regarding reducing the serving years of the K-pop stars from two years to three weeks in the military.
The intensity of the issue went manifold when it was announced that the oldest member of the South Korean septet, Jin, will be turning 30 next year. According to a 2019 amendment of the law, any globally recognized K-pop star can postpone their military service until 30.
When it comes to military service, South Korea has a law that every able-bodied man between the ages of 18 and 28 must serve the military and fulfill their duties to protect the nation against the nuclear bomb holder North Korea.
People from some categories such as Olympics, Asian Games, classical dancers, and musicians have often been exempted from military service, or they have done shorter service. So, a debate about reducing the time of K-pop stars serving in the military seems like a justifiable option in the country.
Lee Jong-sup, the Defense Minister, spoke at the parliamentary session, addressing BTS and their military service. He reportedly said that by allowing BTS to continue their performances, they would be serving national interests without affecting the personnel resources.
As per Reuters, Lee said, “Even if they join the military, there would be a way to give them a chance to practise and perform together if there are scheduled concerts abroad. As many people highly value artists serving in the military, that may help boost their popularity even more.”
BigHit, BTS’ entertainment agency, has not commented on the situation yet.
In June, the septet caused a major shock wave among their exponential fan base by announcing that they would be taking a hiatus from group musical activities. However, they later clarified that the group would be moving forward as before, but the members would be concentrating on their solo projects more.
Be that as it may, a BigHit official said that a few members of the group suffered a ‘hard time’, owing to the uncertainties that the parliamentary debates bred.
Bangtan Boys, also popularly known as BTS, have managed to conquer the hearts of millions of people across the globe since 2013. Ever since then, they have become a sensation that remains unparalleled.