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There is no doubt that BTS is currently one of the most popular music groups around the world. However, fans must be reminded that its members will have to leave one by one in the near future for the reason that most followers probably already know by now.
Most followers of the K-Pop and Korean film and TV industry are aware that their favorite male stars have to temporarily bow out of the limelight for at least 21 months. The country requires able-bodied men ages 21 to 35 to enlist in the military, go through basic training, and serve in various military units. Current laws governing this policy do not exempt K-Pop stars BTS.
The oldest BTS members are 26 years old while the youngest, Jungkook, is 21. Technically, they can start their military service anytime now.
While BTS members have yet to receive formal notice of military enlistment, they did recently acknowledge it will happen in the near future. During their interview with “CBS This Morning” last month, the boy band addressed the issue. “As a Korean, it's natural," BTS vocalist Jin said. “And, someday, when duty calls, we'll be ready to respond and do our best."
Meanwhile, Jungkook added, “I don't want to think about it at this point. We have something really good going." To which BTS rapper RM agreed. The 24-year-old K-Pop idol said, "That's the answer. We just enjoy the ride, live in the moment, and that's all we can do."
Just as BTS was attending various United States-based TV shows and major music awards, debates over the military service exemption heat up. At present, athletes and classical music artists may petition to be exempted from the conscription. Requests are often granted, especially for Olympic medalists as the country hopes not to interfere with their training and ability to bring home more prestigious awards in South Korea’s honor.
BTS has been winning in Western music award shows for years now. Reports in 2018 also revealed they had contributed at least $3 billion to the South Korean economy through their numerous chart-topping songs and albums. However, in the words of a Korean lawmaker, that has gotten them “nothing” in this issue conscription exemptions. It then poised a national question on whether the government and its military branch should reconsider related policies to be more considerate of K-Pop stars.
