Introduction to the Reunion
The K-Pop group BTS members Jimin and Jung Kook, who were released from the South Korean military on Wednesday, welcomed the deafening cheers and joyful screams of thousands of fans. This is another step in the long-awaited reunion of the group. "Thank you for waiting for us," Jung Kook told the fans and promised an "even better version" from BTS.
The Group’s Military Service
The couple are the youngest members of the group of seven, who complete the country’s mandatory military service. Jin, J-Hope ended her service in 2023, and RM and V returned to civilian life just one day before Jimin and Jung Kook. The last member Suga, who works as a social service agent, an alternative form of military service, will be relieved on June 21.
Fans’ Reaction
The crowds that gathered near military bases to take a look at the stars were so large that mobile networks fell briefly and were exposed to satellite feed. The fans traveled hundreds of miles around the globe to see their idols. "I think I’ll cry," said one fan, while another said: "We couldn’t sleep! We have counted the days since it entered [the] Military."
Why is the BTS Re-association a Big Deal?
The group, which took a break in 2022 to fulfill their military obligations, is expected to reunite in 2025. All seven members signed new contracts with their agency Hybe in 2023, and industry analysts predict that their comeback will trigger a large wave for global music sales and concerts. Before her break, BTS achieved more than 4 billion US dollars every year, around 0.2 percent of the total GDP in South Korea, according to the official data.
Impact on the Music Industry
Analysts expect the comeback from BTS to act on streaming, sales and concerts worldwide. Celebrations have already started in Seoul, where fans gather on Friday for the 12th anniversary of the group when the banners announced: "We are back". The group’s reunion is highly anticipated and is expected to have a significant impact on the music industry.
