BTS' J-Hope Exempted From Military Duty, Greeted By Smiling Jin: 'Thank You Fans'

BTS singer J-Hope became the second BTS member to be discharged from South Korea's mandatory military service on Thursday (October 17) after 18 months of service. According to ReutersHope, 30, smiled and greeted fellow bandmate Jin and about 100 cheering fans and reporters as he emerged in uniform from a military base in Wonju, Gangwon Province.

Jean, who finished his service in June, appeared on video hugging his fatherHolding a huge bouquet of flowers. “Thanks to the fans, I was able to complete it [military service] safely, in good health,” Hope (née Jung Ho-seok) said. “What I've felt over the last year and a half is that many soldiers work hard, dedicate themselves and do so much to protect the country.”

According to the Korea Timesthe dancer/rapper also thanked the citizens of Wonju for their support, saying, “During my 18 months of military service, I did instructor duties and paraded a lot, so I saw a lot of Wonju citizens. I want to thank the citizens who greeted and cheered the soldiers. It was very emotional…

BTS went on hiatus in 2022 to give the members time to pursue their solo projects and complete their military hurdles, with plans to regroup in 2025 once all seven men are discharged from their duties.

ARMY shared a series of videos of J-Hope and Jin's sweet reunioncommenting on how excited the two men seemed to be, as well as laughing at Jin's makeshift gag gag hold a phalanx of press microphones during his teammate's brief statement Thursday.

The exciting reunion came a day after Jin announced details of his upcoming debut solo album. Happywhich is expected to be released on November 15. The six-song mini-album will include the title track, “Running Wild,” as well as the upcoming pre-release single, “I'll Be There,” as well as ” Another Level, “Falling,” “Heart on the Window ” (feat. WENDY) and “I will come to you.”