Bighit Entertainment, the agency representing BTS, has issued an official statement affirming that their rapper and band member Suga, also known as Min Yoongi, will be entering military service to fulfill his mandatory obligations in the coming time.
Source: Mid-day
Statement from Bighit Entertainment
Bighit Entertainment, a widely recognized agency known for its management of the internationally celebrated musical ensemble BTS, has made an impactful and definitive announcement. This declaration serves to affirm that Suga, a highly distinguished rapper whose role is pivotal within the band, and who is equally acknowledged by his alternate moniker Min Yoongi, is presently making preparations to undertake his mandatory military service. This decision aligns seamlessly with the governmental requirement imposed upon all eligible citizens, highlighting the conscientious commitment that citizens undertake to fulfill their duty to the nation. As this development unfolds, it underscores the agency’s dedication to both the individual members of BTS and their responsibility to society as a whole.
Source: Weverse
Source: Twitter
Mandatory Military Enlistment in South Korea
Military service is obligatory for all able-bodied men between the ages of 18 and 28. The length of service varies depending on the branch of the military, but it typically lasts around 18 to 21 months. Exemptions or alternative service are sometimes granted for individuals with specific medical conditions or exceptional talents in certain fields.
Source: Mid-day
Military Enlistment Postponement for BTS
Given that Suga was born in March 1993, he falls within the age range for mandatory military service. However, there have been discussions about South Korea’s “BTS Law,” which allows K-pop stars to postpone their military service until the age of 30. This law was enacted to acknowledge the significant cultural and economic contributions of K-pop artists like BTS to the country.
The law allows outstanding artists, who have made exceptional contributions to South Korea’s reputation, to postpone their military service until the age of 30. This is a significant extension from the usual age limit of 28. This extension was particularly relevant for BTS, one of the world’s most prominent K-pop groups, whose members were approaching the typical age for military enlistment.
BTS has undeniably played a major role in spreading Korean culture and music across the globe, boosting tourism, and enhancing the country’s soft power. Their achievements in the music industry, record-breaking accomplishments, and their substantial positive impact on the economy and tourism are some of the reasons that led to the creation of this law.
Solo Adventures of Suga
Suga debuted as a solo artist- Agust-D with the studio album titled D-Day. It was released on April 21, 2024, as the concluding part of a trio of creations, which comprises the mixtapes Agust D (2016) and D-2 (2020). Consisting of a total of 10 distinct tracks, this album showcases noteworthy collaborations, including appearances by fellow BTS member J-Hope, renowned artist IU, Ryuichi Sakamoto, and Woosung of the Rose. The release of this project was marked by the launch of two lead singles, each serving as a promotional element: “People Pt. 2,” which highlights the vocals of IU, released on April 7, and “Haegeum,” a captivating track that was introduced simultaneously with the album’s unveiling. To enhance the visual and auditory experience, engaging music videos were created for both of these singles. Moreover, a third music video was unveiled on April 24, accompanying the track titled “Amygdala.” This comprehensive collection of tracks and collaborative efforts stands as an impressive continuation of Suga’s musical journey.
Source: Weverse
