BTS Members to Join the Military Soon

What is BTS?

BTS is a popular Korean-pop (K-pop) band from South Korea. The band has seven members: RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook. Fans of BTS call themselves ARMYs, which is short for Adorable Representative MC for Youth.

The Korean pop band has had nine successful years in the music industry. It has given them a lot of popularity and wealth. However, BTS members have decided to take a break from their musical careers to serve in the military.

What is conscription?

The armed forces of a nation require many members to function efficiently. The method of recruiting these members differs from country to country. While some countries only take voluntary members, others demand the compulsory participation of their citizens as well.

A military force decides its recruitment method based on the seriousness of its military threats and the number of people it will need to fight against an enemy nation.

Conscription refers to the compulsory military service that citizens of a nation are required to do. Around 49 countries have laws for conscription, such as Russia, Ukraine, Switzerland, South Korea, etc.

Why does South Korea demand compulsory military service from its citizens?

Even after signing a peace agreement in 1953, the countries of North and South Korea are still at war. That is why conscription is crucial for South Korea.

All South Korean males between 18-35 years must serve in the army, navy, or air force for at least 18 months. Those unfit to perform active military duty can choose the police force, coast guard, or fire services.

Famous athletes, artists who have won internationally, and people with serious health issues can gain immunity from compulsory military service. But those who refuse may end up working in the prison system for 36 months.

What was the controversy around BTS and conscription?

In the past, there was a lot of confusion around the question of BTS getting immunity from compulsory military service.

Many politicians and fans thought BTS deserved immunity because they made their country proud on the global stage. However, South Korean laws can only free traditional artists (such as violinists, pianists, and ballet dancers) from their military duty.

But ARMYs should not lose any hope as the band has plans to come together in 2025, soon after they finish their military service.

What did we learn from this article?

From this article, we learned that even famous celebrities like the BTS have to serve their country when the time comes. But we hope that the BTS comes back soon and makes more of their beautiful music for their many fans.

Will you miss the BTS? Tell us in the comments below.