BTS’ Suga to Begin Military Enlistment This Month

BTS member Suga is set to enlist for mandatory military service this week, representatives for K-pop idols said Sunday.

“We have further information regarding Suga’s military service,” BIGHIT Music posted on the South Korean app Weverse. “Suga will be beginning his required service on September 22.”

In October 2022, BTS announced plans to sever their military service. starting shortly with the oldest member Jin. The band will reunite in 2025 after pursuing individual projects.

South Korea requires military service for two years from all able-bodied men between the ages of 18 and 28. It revised the law in 2019 to let globally recognized K-pop stars delay signing up until 30.

In December 2020, the Korean National Assembly passed a motion (nicknamed the “BTS law”) to allow top K-pop stars to postpone service until age 30 with a recommendation from the culture minister.

“There will not be any official events taking place on the day he starts his service or on the day he enters the training camp,” BIGHIT said. “We kindly ask fans to refrain from visiting Suga at his workplace during the period of his service. Please convey your warm regards and encouragement in your hearts only.”

The reps also gave fans a warning about unauthorized tours or products. “Please be mindful to avoid getting adversely affected by unauthorized tours or package products that illegally use the artist’s intellectual property,” BIGHIT added. “Our company will take appropriate measures against attempts at any commercial activity that make unauthorized use of artist IP.”

BIGHIT continued: “We ask for your continued love and support for Suga until he completes his service and returns. Our company will also strive to provide all the support he needs during this time.”

For his part, Suga did a live stream on Weverse that was translated by a follower. He told fans that they shouldn’t be sad about his enlistment and that he’d be done in 2025.

Suga released his solo album, "D-Day", under the name Agust D in April. He recently wrapped his Agust D-Day tour.

In addition to Suga and Jin, BTS member J-Hope also has been enlisted.