At the end of 2023, the remaining 4 members of BTS, RM, V, Jimin and Jungkook, broke up with fans and began mandatory military service.
Thus, it will not be until June 2025 that the audience can see BTS with a full lineup. According to Korea Daily JoongAng, BTS has prepared carefully to keep the heat in their absence.
Korean has the phrase "gunbaekgi" to refer to the interruption of male artists' activities after 1 year and 6 months of military service.
"Previously, military service was considered the "death sentence" for the male idol's career, because the number of fans would decline rapidly and they would easily be replaced by new artists. The competition is getting fiercer," commented Korea Daily JoongAng.
Now, with the development of social networks and technology, boy bands can still stay in touch with fans, maintain their name and release pre-recorded products.
BTS members are also following this trend.Jin has prepared content to post on digital platforms and released new monthly videos on YouTube.Suga also made a series of videos Time to Drink with SUGA to connect with the audience.
In addition, V was featured in IU's MV "Love Wins All".BTS also released a series of documentaries BTS Monuments: beyond the Star to thank fans for their love and follow-up.
At the very least, social networks play an important role in updating content and ensuring the presence of idols on digital platforms - an effective tool to connect artists and audiences.
In July 2020, the South Korean military implemented a policy allowing soldiers to use phones during designated hours, depending on the service type.This also allows male artists to communicate with fans even when they are in the military.
The military also has a website and application to post photos and update information of soldiers.Previously, the website shared photos of Jimin and Jungkook learning to use guns, practicing military positions, and attending chemical, biological and radioactive defense training (CBR) courses.
Meanwhile, RM and V also update Instagram in their free time. Jin and Jimin often text fans on the Weserve app.
Not to mention, BTS is still a very popular name as their songs continue to increase in number of listeners, breaking records on online music release platforms.
According to Korean media, after BTS enlisted in the army, many old hits that have been released for quite a while have been listened to by the audience and are looking forward to the reunion of 7 members of the group Big Hit who will stand together on stage in 2025.
Music critic Park Hee-a commented: Thanks to YouTube, the military risk has decreased significantly. The best thing is that idols can arrange when to post content, allowing them to record in advance. Gunbaekgi is certainly not as scary as before and the stars have started to embrace this trend.
