BTS cannot avoid South Korea's mandatory military service.

Global star BTS! All members enlist in the military! BTS fulfills South Korea’s mandatory military service.

Members RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook of the group BTS are going through the enlistment process.

With this, all seven members of BTS have fulfilled their military service obligations. Their agency, Big Hit Music, announced on the 22nd, ‘RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook have started the process for fulfilling their military service obligations,’ and stated, ‘We will provide further updates on enlistment-related news as they are determined in the future.‘

Currently, all members of BTS are required to fulfill South Korea’s mandatory military service.

However, according to the amended Military Service Act in 2020, they received recommendations for postponement of enlistment from the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism. As a result, their enlistment has been postponed until the year they turn 30. If the four BTS members decide to cancel their enlistment postponement, they will be subject to active duty enlistment as soon as they receive their enlistment notices. The timing of their enlistment could potentially be as early as December of this year or as late as early next year.

South Korea’s military service system is a system that mobilizes citizens to fulfill their national defense obligations.

This system includes conscripted individuals, the duration of military service, alternative service, and exemptions from military service, among other components.

Let’s learn more about South Korea’s military service obligations related to BTS

BTS , South Korea's mandatory military service.

The South Korean military service system is a system that mobilizes citizens to fulfill their national defense obligations. This system includes conscripted individuals, the duration of military service, alternative service, and exemptions from military service, among other components.

Conscription Obligations: Male citizens of South Korea are typically registered as conscripted individuals at the age of 18, and they are required to fulfill their military service according to the national conscription criteria. Recently, there have been changes in the timing of conscription registration.
Military Service Duration: Most conscripted individuals serve in the Republic of Korea Armed Forces until their mandatory discharge date. The duration of military service varies depending on the branch, such as the Army, Navy, or Air Force, typically ranging from age 21 to 24.
Alternative Service: Some conscripted individuals can choose alternative service as a substitute for military service due to reasons like religion, physical or social considerations. Those performing alternative service are designated as social service workers and engage in various community activities.
Military Service Exemptions: In certain cases, individuals may be exempt from military service due to specific illnesses, physical disabilities, family hardships, and other reasons. These exemptions can change based on government policies.

South Korea’s military conscription system is designed to fairly impose national defense obligations on the entire population,

but it is also a subject of various social issues and controversies. Policies can change over time, and it is advisable to consult official government information or announcements from relevant agencies for the most up-to-date information.

Furthermore, South Korea’s military culture emphasizes homogeneity and discipline among military personnel while also possessing unique experiences and distinctive traditions.

Below are some characteristics of South Korea’s military culture.

Discipline and Structure: The South Korean military places a strong emphasis on discipline and structure. Conscripted individuals are required to adhere strictly to military regulations and hierarchy, with clear ranks and role assignments based on the rank system.
Military Service Experience: Most South Korean men go through military service, which is a common experience in South Korean society. Military life is a significant period that fosters camaraderie and cooperation among peers.
Camaraderie and Esprit de Corps: Military personnel, especially those serving alongside their peers, emphasize camaraderie. The sense of camaraderie is strengthened as they train and work together, often leading to a lasting bond even after their military service.
Training and Education: In the military, alongside military training, there is an emphasis on education that promotes values such as leadership, initiative, and teamwork. This helps military personnel grow into proactive and mature citizens in society after their service.
Traditions and Ceremonies: The military has its own unique traditions and ceremonies. These include special uniforms, rituals, and events among military personnel, enhancing their sense of identity and camaraderie.

These various aspects combine to shape South Korea’s military culture,

which is considered a unique experience gained through military service.

However, it’s important to note that South Korea’s military culture also has its shortcomings.

If you want to learn more about South Korea’s military conscription, it’s advisable to do further research. In fact, there have been many claims that BTS is eligible for exemption from this obligation.