After much deliberation, it’s finally been confirmed; BTS will not be granted exemption from the military.
According to the culture minister of Korea, the decision is now finalized. According to Yonhap, on November 19, the culture minister Park Yang Woo spoke in a press conference with reporters at UNESCO in Paris, he stated,
“In the case of BTS, I personally wish I could allow exemptions for them under certain standards, but the Military Manpower Administration and the Ministry of National Defense (in charge of conscription) are inclined to downsize the overall scope (of exemption)… Unlike classical arts or sports, it is difficult to fix the criteria of the selection in the popular culture and arts fields, which makes it difficult to institutionalize (a waiver system).”
Up until this point, the decision wasn’t finalized. ARMY had long expected this and many fans supported the members’ decision to serve regardless. They previously spoke about it, you can read it here.
Related: BTS Fans Are Not Happy That The Group’s Name Is Being Used To Discuss Idol Military Exemption
Despite the media attention, Big Hit remained silent and only made a statement once in relation to the military exemptions.
It’s unfortunate since BTS are worth billions for the South Korean economy. The subject of BTS enlistment has become a hot topic since this year began with fans split on whether the group should serve or not.
The oldest member, Jin is up first for military enlistment. According to Korean Military laws, he must enlist by 2020.
What do you think of this situation?
I wish Jin will not enlist on military in 2020 …. but it’s in the culture of Korean we can’t stop Jin… We love you jin?!!
Oh my gosh. NONONO. If they disband, it will be the end of me. I will die a painful death. And if one of them DIES while they’re serving, I will go into a state of depression. I m terrified. I will be in 7th grade in 2020, and I’m not happy. If Jin, Jiminie, Yoongi, Namjoon, Hobi, Kookie, or Tae Tae die, I will die along with them. BTS members, please try to keep safe while you are serving. Do come back healthy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! PLEEEEASSEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
They should all just enlist at once instead of taking turns so that they’ll just be done with it. instead of having 6 members. BTS is BTS only when all 7 members are together
obviously I wish they didn’t have to but yh
I wish they all just inlisted all at once so they wouldnt have to go on hiatas