J-Hope‘s 18-month stint in the South Korean military has already come to an end. The BTS member has been discharged following the completion of his mandatory service, which began in April 2023. He’s the second member to finish his required time in the military, following Jin, who returned in June.
“Thanks to the fans, I was able to finish [the service] safely, with good health,” J-Hope told an audience of fans and reporters at the Wonju, Gangwon military base, according to Reuters. “What I’ve felt for the past year-and-a-half is that a lot of soldiers are working hard, dedicating themselves, and doing so much to protect the country.”
Just before beginning his service, J-Hope released his J. Cole collaboration “On the Street.” It functioned as a parting gift to fans at the time and a foundational point to build on in the future. Earlier this year, the musician released the EP and accompanying documentary series Hope on the Street. The project featured collaborations with BTS’ Jungkook, Benny Blanco, Nile Rodgers, Huh Yun-jin, and more.
A few months into his military stint, which is required of all men in South Korea who are over the age of 18, J-Hope shared an update with his fans via Weverse. “I’m here to tell you that I’m doing very well and that I’m becoming more mature,” he wrote to BTS ARMY. “Perhaps because of the cold air, this is the moment when I feel more like time is passing. I’m really excited, but my shoulders also feel heavy and reverent.”
He added: “Although I am working hard and adapting faster than I expected, I feel a lot of pressure… because my role is to lead and help young Koreans take their first steps in the military organization. I do my best at every moment in the situation and there are good results.”
The remaining members of BTS — RM, V, Jimin, Jungkook, and Suga — are expected to be discharged from service in June 2025. They each enlisted in December 2023.
From Rolling Stone US
