The wait is finally over for BTS fans around the world! Jin, the eldest member of the globally renowned K-pop group, has officially completed his mandatory military service in South Korea. After nearly two years away from the spotlight, the 31-year-old singer emerged from a military base in Yeoncheon on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, greeted by his bandmates and a sea of enthusiastic supporters.
The heartwarming scene unfolded as Jin, dressed in his military uniform, was met with warm embraces and joyful celebrations from his fellow BTS members. In a touching display of camaraderie, J-Hope, Jimin, Jungkook, V, and RM serenaded their returning bandmate with a saxophone performance, capturing the essence of their unbreakable bond.
A Triumphant Reunion
The group later shared a heartwarming image on X (formerly known as Twitter), showcasing Jin sitting in the center of the group on a couch adorned with tinsel and balloons that read, “Jin Is Back.” The caption, “I’m home!” accompanied the photo, which quickly amassed over one million likes from their devoted fanbase.
Jin also took the opportunity to connect with his fans through a 19-minute Weverse livestream, expressing his gratitude for their unwavering support during his time away. In a touching message posted on the platform, he wrote, “Thank you so much to the reporters and the ARMY who came to the company for my discharge from the military. I couldn’t say hello properly because I was afraid it would get crowded, but thank you so much. Our ARMY is the best.”
Celebrating a Milestone
Jin’s homecoming couldn’t have come at a more opportune time, as it precedes the group’s highly anticipated 2024 Festa festival in South Korea. This annual celebration not only marks BTS’s 11th anniversary but also serves as a joyous occasion to welcome Jin back into the fold.
As the first BTS member to enlist in the mandatory military service required for able-bodied men in South Korea, Jin’s return signifies a significant milestone for the group. During his absence, the remaining members have taken a hiatus to fulfill their respective military obligations, with plans to reunite by 2025 once their duties have been completed.
Keeping the Connection Alive
Despite the physical separation, Jin remained connected to his fans throughout his military service. In January, BTS released a pre-recorded video on YouTube, featuring Jin celebrating the New Year with his devoted followers. “Ta-da everyone! Hello! Seok-jin came to say hi for the new year,” he said in the clip, expressing his longing for his fans and asking them to “wait a few more months.”
With Jin’s triumphant return, the anticipation for BTS’s long-awaited reunion continues to build, as fans eagerly await the group’s highly anticipated comeback after fulfilling their military duties. The bond between the members and their ARMY remains as strong as ever, and Jin’s homecoming serves as a testament to the enduring power of their connection.