Fans and industry insiders are eager to know when the group will continue to work with full members and music, which new message will shape BTS's next wave.
Jin and J-Hope were discharged last year, RM and V will be discharged on June 10, followed by Jungkook and Jimin on June 11 and Suga on June 21.
During their break due to military service, the members still connect with fans through previously recorded solo releases. Notably, Jimin's single Who - released during his military service - still stayed on the Billboard Hot 100 for 33 weeks, setting a new record for K-pop.
LOST! by RM was also released during his military service, and won several awards at international festivals including the Shark Music Video Award and the Sislope Festival.
BTS's most recent group album is the 2022 Proof collection and their most recent group concert was yet to Come in Busan in October 2022.
HYBE has repeatedly stated that BTS will continue their activities and performances as all members return after completing their military service and preparations for their comeback are underway.
However, most analysts agree that the possibility of a return immediately after his discharge is not high. It takes time to produce music and perform to meet the high expectations of fans around the world.
HYBE CEO Park Jiwon said at a shareholders' meeting in March that the company is working with leading composers and the group is discussing BTS' vision and orientation for the future. He also emphasized that the process of writing music, recording and then touring needs to be planned carefully, especially for a global group like BTS.
With all members, except the youngest member, Jungkook, now in his 30s, BTS is entering a new phase in his career.
Back in 2017-2018, BTS made a global impact with the series of albums Love Yourself, promoting the message of self-love. Experts believe that BTS' solo career has helped each member develop musically, creating a premise for a more mature and strong comeback as a group.
Lee Ji-young, a research professor at the Center for C across-Langes Research at Hankuk University, commented: "After individual training and success, the reunion of the members will likely create music and stories that far surpass their previous works. Their experiences, including military service, will bring a deeper emotional resonance."
Many people believe that BTS's return can breathe new life into the K-pop industry.
Choi Kwang-ho, General Secretary of the Korea Music Content Association, said: "BTS is an artist with unmatched achievements, and even their solo projects are extremely successful. Their comeback is highly anticipated and could be the catalyst the K-pop industry needs to regain momentum, especially after a difficult year with global economic challenges."
