In a highly anticipated moment for fans worldwide, RM and V, two prominent members of the global K-pop sensation BTS, have officially completed their mandatory military service in South Korea today, June 10, 2025. Their discharge marks a significant step towards the full reunion of the septet, igniting fervent excitement among their devoted fanbase, known as ARMY.
RM (Kim Namjoon), the group’s leader, and V (Kim Taehyung) both enlisted in December 2023. RM served in the 15th Infantry Division Military Band, while V was assigned to the II Corps Special Duty Team. Their return to civilian life was met with cheers from approximately 200 dedicated fans, some of whom traveled from as far as Mexico, Turkey, and Brazil to witness the momentous occasion.
Upon their discharge, both artists expressed their eagerness to return to the stage. RM even treated fans to a short saxophone performance, while V stood beside him with a radiant smile and a bouquet of flowers. V conveyed his gratitude to the waiting ARMYs, stating, “To all the ARMYs who have waited for us in the military, I want to say I am truly, truly grateful. Please wait just a little longer and we will return with a really cool performance.” RM echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing their desire to perform again and hinting at efforts toward a new album.
Their completion of service follows that of Jin, the oldest member, who was discharged in June 2024, and J-Hope, who completed his duty in October 2024. The reunion is set to continue swiftly, with Jimin and Jung Kook expected to be discharged tomorrow, June 11. Suga, who has been fulfilling his duty as a social service agent, is slated to be the final member to return on June 21, thus completing the full reunion of all seven BTS members.
The period of mandatory military service in South Korea, typically 18-21 months for able-bodied men aged 18 to 28, is a legal requirement to deter aggression from North Korea. While special exemptions are granted to certain athletes and artists, K-pop stars generally do not qualify. However, a revision to the Military Service Act allowed BTS members to postpone their enlistment until age 30, a decision that sparked public debate before the group’s agency announced in 2022 that all members would fulfill their civic duties.
The anticipation surrounding BTS’s full comeback is palpable. Their management agency, HYBE, has already begun marking the occasion, with banners outside their Seoul headquarters proclaiming “WE ARE BACK.” The “BTS Festa,” an annual celebration of the group’s debut anniversary, is also scheduled for June 13-14, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
While the exact timeline for their full group comeback remains under discussion, with possibilities ranging from late 2025 to early 2026, the return of RM and V, along with the imminent discharge of the remaining members, has sent a clear message to the global music industry: BTS is on its way back, and their collective energy is expected to be nothing short of massive. Their individual endeavors during their hiatus, including solo albums and tours, have only served to further refine their unique artistic identities, promising a powerful and evolved return for the kings of K-pop.