K-pop star j-hope, a member of the renowned South Korean boy band BTS, has completed his mandatory military service, marking a significant milestone in his career. The 30-year-old, whose real name is Jung Ho-seok, left the military base in Wonju, Gangwon province early Thursday morning and was warmly welcomed by his fellow band member Jin, who finished his military service in June this year.
Expressing gratitude towards the fans for their unwavering support, j-hope shared his reflections on the 18 months of military service, stating, “Thanks to the fans, I was able to finish it (the service) safely, with good health.” He recounted his experiences during the service, highlighting the interactions with the citizens of Wonju who supported and cheered for the soldiers, a gesture that deeply touched him.
Throughout his military tenure, j-hope served as an instructor and participated in various duties, including marching, providing him with a firsthand perspective on the dedication and hard work of soldiers in safeguarding their country. He emphasised the importance of public support and appreciation for the sacrifices made by servicemen and women, underscoring the significance of unity and national pride.
Following his discharge, j-hope engaged with fans through a live stream on the Weverse platform from his agency’s headquarters, where he reassured them of his return as a performer. Reflecting on his military service, he mentioned, “I matured a lot and came out healthy. Living in Wonju and working as a training instructor was great, and honestly, the food was delicious.”
As anticipation builds for his upcoming music projects, j-hope hinted at future promotional activities while expressing his commitment to delivering his best for the fans. With a mix of nostalgia for his military experience and excitement for his artistic endeavours ahead, he signified a transition from his military persona to resuming his role as BTS’s j-hope, promising to showcase his talents and reconnect with his audience.
Under South Korean law, all able-bodied men between 18 and 28 years old are mandated to serve 18 months in active military duty. In recognition of their global influence, K-pop stars are granted the flexibility to postpone their service until the age of 30. While j-hope has successfully completed his service, other BTS members, RM, Suga, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook, are currently fulfilling their military obligations with plans for a group reunion in 2026.