Welcome back, J-Hope.
BTS member J-Hope completed his military service on Oct. 17 and was discharged from the 36th Infantry Division new recruit training center in Wonju, Gangwon Province in South Korea.
Banners containing messages from J-Hope were placed by fans near the camp to celebrate his discharge. Korean media also waited outside the camp to cover J-Hope’s discharge.
"I was discharged in good health, but what I want to say is that I did a lot of marching during my 1 year and 6 months of military service and as an assistant instructor. I met a lot of Wonju citizens, and every time I did, they always greeted the soldiers and cheered them on,” he told Korean media.
He added, “I would like to express my gratitude to the citizens. I was so touched that I don't know how to express this overwhelming emotion. What I really felt during the one year and six months was the hard work and dedication of many soldiers to protect the country, and the fact that they are doing a lot for the country. I think it would be even more meaningful if we showed them more interest and love."
J-Hope emerged from the camp past 10 a.m. KST and was welcomed by Jin, who was waiting inside a car. Jin hugged J-Hope and gave him a bouquet. He spoke to the media before boarding a car.
The 36th Infantry Division in Wonju, Gangwon Province in South Korea. (Screenshot from SBS News video on YouTube)
BTS' J-Hope emerging from the 36th Infantry Division (Screenshot from Dispatch video on YouTube)
BTS' Jin welcoming J-Hope outside the 36th Infantry Division (Screenshot from Dispatch video on YouTube)
BTS' J-Hope giving a salute and speaking to the media outside the 36th Infantry Division (Screenshot from Dispatch video on YouTube)
BTS' J-Hope and Jin outside the 36th Infantry Division (Screenshot from Dispatch video on YouTube)
BTS' J-Hope (Instagram)
BTS' J-Hope posted "D-1" on Instagram on Oct. 16 (Instagram)
On Instagram, J-Hope posted “D-1” on Oct. 16 to start his countdown for his discharge.
J-Hope is the second member of BTS to finish military service after Jin who was discharged last June 12.
He enlisted on April 18 last year and served for 18 months as an active-duty soldier. He served as an assistant instructor at the 36th Infantry Division new recruit training center.
BTS’ agency, Big Hit Music, earlier stated that “no special events are planned on the day of j-hope’s discharge. To prevent any issues arising from overcrowding, fans are strongly advised to refrain from visiting the site. Please convey your warm regards and encouragement in your hearts.”
Other members of BTS are also fulfilling their military service. All BTS members will complete the mandatory duty next year and are aiming for a comeback to the music scene.