BTS’ Jin is currently serving in the South Korean military, but he’s still connecting with fans.
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All seven members of BTS—Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—are planning to fulfill their duty for mandatory military service, with eldest member Jin already serving after turning 30 on December 4. Prior to his departure, the singer recorded a video message for fans while on the set of the South Korean TV series, Running Man, which was released on Sunday (Jan. 8) by a BTS fan account.
“I won’t be a civilian anymore by the time this is out,” Jin says in Korean. “But I’m here in front of the camera because I wanted to leave you something even if it’s just leaving a message.” The singer hints that this is the first of many messages he hopes to share with fans while on a two-year absence to serve his country. There is a law in South Korea where able-bodied men must serve 18-21 months of military service.
“Whenever I’m available, I wish to leave these videos and records once every few months to share with you as much as possible even if it’s just checking in briefly,” he continues. “I may not be by your side at this very moment, but I’ll go looking for you soon…I’ll be back soon.” Jin ends the video by assuring that when he has time, he’ll record another clip. “See you then!” he says waving.
Each member will serve two years in the military. They performed their last show together in Busan, South Korea in October 2022. They are expected to reunite in 2025 after their terms have ended. In addition to the massive success they’ve seen as the pop supergroup, the members have also launched solo careers. Jin released his official debut solo single, “The Astronaut,” in October 2022, which has been certified platinum for sales of more than one million in his native country.
Photo by The Chosunilbo JNS/Imazins via Getty Images
