According to Chinese media, RM, Jimin, V and Jungkook are all about to be discharged from the army this week. RM and V will complete their service on June 10, followed by Jimin and Jungkook on June 11. All four enlisted together in December 2023.
Suga, who is currently serving as a social service worker, is eligible for military discharge on June 21.
Jin, the oldest member, first enlisted in December 2022, was discharged in June 2023 and actively filled the group's void for a year. J-Hope, who enlisted in March 2023, returned last October and continued his solo career.
Fans around the world are excited about the return of BTS members.
The members plan to connect with fans through live broadcasts on their corresponding discharge days. With consecutive military discharges, ARMY (BTS fans) are expected to have a busy week.
BTS's global appeal is still maintained. Jin's second mini-album, "The Astronaut," and its title track, Don't Say You Love Me, ranked top 3 on Billboard 200 and top 90 on the Hot 100 respectively. RM won the "Most Favorite K-Pop Artist" award at the American Music Awards in May for his 2023 solo album Right Place, wrong Person.
Their post-war plans have attracted much expectation. Jin released his solo album just four months after his military discharge; J-Hope continued to release a single a year after his return.
Pop culture critic Kim Heon-sik said that BTS has strengthened their overall strength even during their military break and their fan base is still strong. After a short hiatus, they are likely to return as a full group.
HYBE shares have increased despite recent controversies over allegations related to fraudulent transactions by founder Bang Si Hyuk. Currently, HYBE's stock price has increased sharply, at 284,500 won, near a 1-year high of 292,500 won.
While investors and the music industry remain bullish, some believe BTS must reassess their music direction. A K-Pop industry commented that BTS has developed into a global Pop artist. They will revive HYBE after the members are discharged from the military.