THE last BTS FESTA 2022 was one of the most heartbreaking anniversary events that the Bangtan Sonyeondan (BTS) ARMYs have ever experienced when the boy group announced the beginning of their second chapter.
This second chapter was explained to be the start of their group hiatus as they focused on each of their careers; wherein they would be releasing music and content as separate idols instead of as BTS.
It garnered a lot of attention as this was not just the end of an era but also meant that they would be doing this as their last hurrah before the members enlisted in their mandatory military services.
It is quite known to every KPOP fan that the mandatory military service in South Korea is a long battle of who deserves exemption following the awards and milestones that some groups have presented to their country.
The discourse went on for so long that it was elevated to government officials discussing the requirements for exemption.
Alas, BTS has decided that they will not apply for exemption and continue with their mandatory military service as they have intended to since the start of their rise in the KPOP industry.
Last December 2022, BTS’ eldest member, Kim Seokjin enlisted in the military and caused several ARMYs to be dejected by the decision whilst understanding that this is a part of their responsibility as citizens of the country.
Finally, after 18 months of serving his military duties, Jin returned in time for the BTS FESTA 2024.
In his return, it was reported that the six members of BTS, namely Kim Namjoon, Jung Hoseok, Park Jimin, Kim Taehyung, and Jeon Jungkook have been reunited to welcome the eldest member back.
The encounter was full of embraces and laughter as it marked the start of a new era where each of them would be coming back officially.
After 2023, the time wherein each member enlisted in the military, this is the moment that begins the return of the beloved KPOP boy band into the mainstream.
Finally, in his latest Weverse Live, Jin mentioned how he missed ARMYs as well as that ARMYs should look forward to his Free Hugs event tomorrow, June 13, 2024 (BTS’ 11th anniversary).
He expressed his excitement and joy with finally meeting and hugging 1000 ARMYs in a closed-door event.
This spread triumph and happiness to the whole fandom as finally, the group was reunited for a short while after a year full of tears and no content as the group posts for a photo, seven and complete in their new post on X.
More than that, fans are beyond ecstatic that they have their “Worldwide Handsome Jin” back.
With reports from Ashley Kristieanne Ignacio
