BTS members Jimin and Jungkook reported their discharge with a formal salute.
Jimin and Jungkook were discharged after completing their service of 1 year and 6 months on the morning of the 11th. They enlisted as active-duty soldiers in the army on Dec. 12, 2023, and fulfilled their defense duties as part of the 5th Infantry Division Artillery Brigade.
On that day, the two completed the discharge procedures at the base and moved to meet the press and fans at Yeoncheon Public Stadium in Gyeonggi Province without any separate events.
Many fans gathered at the site from early in the morning to celebrate the discharge of the two. When they appeared holding large bouquets, the fans welcomed them with loud cheers.
Jimin and Jungkook, feeling curious and awkward about being in front of the camera again after a long time, boldly shouted "unity" as they reported their discharge.
Jungkook first thanked the attendees, saying, "Thank you for coming to welcome us as we were discharged. It’s been so long since I’ve been in front of a camera, and I didn’t even put on makeup, so I feel embarrassed. I don’t know what to say," he added with a smile.
Jimin expressed his gratitude, saying, "Thank you for coming from far away to see us, and to the fans who came today, I sincerely thank you. I should first say to ARMY that it has been quite a long time from COVID to our military service, and I am very grateful for your patience."
He added, "Since we have been discharged today, I think we can continue to draw the picture we have been working on. We will prepare to show you a better version of ourselves."
Jungkook remarked, "I want to thank the seniors who were ahead of us, the juniors who remain in the military, and the peers who were discharged a little earlier than us. You all have worked hard to support us. I want to express my gratitude for taking good care of us."
Regarding military life, Jimin mentioned, "It was my first time in the military, and it was not an easy place. The military is extremely challenging and difficult, but I formed many bonds while suffering together and sharing meals."
The two expressed, "We will keep the thankful memories in our hearts and cherish them for a long time," and added, "A lot of things happened, and we will gradually share them with you."
Finally, Jimin conveyed a message to the public, saying, "If I may be so bold, after coming to the military, I found it to be a challenging place. There are many people suffering nearby. If you happen to pass by and see soldiers, it would be an honor if you could kindly offer warm words."
Meanwhile, the day before, RM and V were discharged, marking the return of all BTS members to their fans, except for Suga, who is currently under alternative service.
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