Credited from: CHANNELNEWSASIA
BTS member Suga has officially completed his mandatory military service, making him the seventh and final member of the group to fulfill this requirement. He finished his tenure as a social service agent with little fanfare, amid much anticipation from fans regarding the group's future activities. Suga's discharge date is officially noted as June 21, though he utilized his remaining leave to conclude his duties earlier, on June 18. This marks a significant moment for the globally celebrated K-pop group, which has been on hiatus since 2022 as its members began their military service, according to channelnewsasia, scmp, and reuters.
The members of BTS, starting with Jin in December 2022, have either completed their mandatory military service or are on track to do so. Following Suga's discharge, fans look forward to a potential reunion, with hints of a grand world tour expected in 2026. Big Hit Music, the label managing BTS, confirmed that there would be no special public event for Suga's release due to concerns about crowd control. The decision reflects similar sentiments that were present during the discharge announcements for other members, according to thejakartapost and bangkokpost.
In the lead-up to Suga's discharge, he had faced some controversy, having been fined for a drunk driving incident last year. Shortly after his release, he addressed fans on Weverse, expressing remorse for the disappointment he caused and demonstrating a commitment to re-engaging with his bandmates and supporters. The upcoming activities of BTS are keenly observed, especially with their history of setting records and breaking new ground in K-pop, according to scmp.
The future appears bright for BTS as they aim to bring their unique blend of music and social activism back to the forefront. The group's achievements resonate well beyond music alone, as evidenced by their global influence and philanthropic efforts. Anticipation is building for their return, which will be the focus of a major world tour, heralding a new era for the acclaimed septet, according to reuters and bangkokpost.