Context:

Suga, a member of the globally renowned K-pop group BTS, has completed his mandatory military service in South Korea, marking the return of all seven members from their enlistment duties. While Suga served as a social service agent, the other members, including RM, V, Jimin, and Jung Kook, completed their service in the army, with the last four having been discharged in December 2023. This completion of service is a significant event for BTS fans, as the group plans to reunite in 2025. The completion follows a public debate in 2022 about potential military service exemptions for the group, which was resolved when their management announced that all members would fulfill their duties. South Korea mandates military service for all able-bodied men to deter aggression from North Korea, though exceptions are made for certain artists, with BTS members initially receiving an age extension before enlisting.

Dive Deeper:

• Suga, the rapper and songwriter from BTS, has completed his alternative military service duties in South Korea, with his official discharge occurring after he used up his remaining leave days.

• The completion of Suga's service marks the return of all seven BTS members from their mandatory military duties, with the group planning to reunite in 2025.

• RM, V, Jimin, and Jung Kook were discharged from the army in December 2023, with Jin being discharged in June 2024 and J-Hope in October of the same year.

• The South Korean conscription system requires all able-bodied men aged 18 to 28 to serve in the military for 18-21 months, with exemptions for certain athletes and artists but not for K-pop stars.

• In 2020, South Korea's National Assembly amended the Military Service Act, allowing K-pop stars like BTS to delay their enlistment until age 30, which the group utilized before fulfilling their service obligations.

• There was significant public debate in 2022 about possibly exempting BTS from military service, but ultimately, the group's management confirmed that all members would complete their duties.

• The completion of military service by BTS is celebrated by fans worldwide, as it signifies the potential for future group activities and performances following their planned reunion.