J-Hope, a member of the K-Pop group BTS, will soon enlist in the military, as confirmed by the group’s agency BIG HIT Music. J-Hope will be the second BTS member, after oldest member Jin to enlist for mandatory military service in South Korea.
However, the rapper and dance leader recently stated that he plans to participate in one Weverse live event before beginning his military duties.
As the fanbase of the group, ARMY, expressed concern about not being able to see J-Hope before his departure, the artist addressed the situation on social media and provided an update that alleviated their worries. He confirmed that fans would have the opportunity to see him one last time before he began his military service.
“Everyone, I’m not going tomorrow.. I’ll come to see you this week through live streaming. My ARMYs, don’t have a hard time. Love you, ARMYs,” J-Hope mentioned in a short statement.
According to South Korean media outlet News1, the star rapper would begin his basic training on April 18, enlisting with the New Recruit Training Center Division A in Gangwon-do. After the five-week basic training, he will be assigned to his permanent post as an active-duty recruit.
Big Hit Music reacts to the news of J-Hope’s military enlistment
Soon after the news went viral, Big Hit Music said, “Please understand that it is difficult to confirm J-Hope’s enlistment date and location.”
Big Hit Music thanked the fans and confirmed the rapper’s enlistment.
“We thank all the fans for your continued support for BTS and would like to update you on J-Hope’s upcoming enlistment into the military. J-Hope will fulfill his required time with the military by enlisting in the army. Please note that there will be no official event on the day of his entry. The entrance ceremony is a time to be observed by military personnel and their families only. To prevent any issues that might occur from crowding, fans are advised to refrain from visiting the site. Instead, we ask you to keep your heartwarming words of support and farewell in your hearts,” the statement read.
“We ask for your continued love and support for J-hope until he completes his military service and returns. Our company will also strive to provide all the support he needs during this time,” the statement added.