Members of the K-pop ensemble BTS are intending to serve in the military, according to the band's record label, with Jin, the oldest member, leading the way.
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Military duty is compulsory in South Korea, where practically all able-bodied men must serve in the army for 18 months by the age of 28.
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In 2020, South Korea's parliament passed legislation allowing pop stars - those who "excel in popular culture and art" - to postpone their military service until the age of 30.
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Members are making arrangements to serve as Jin turns 30 this year and the band announces a sabbatical from group musical activities in June to pursue solo projects.
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According to BIGHIT Music, BTS is projected to reform as a group around 2025.
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The record company stated that it had considered the timing of the band's military duty "to respect the demands of the country and these healthy young guys," and that the time was "now."
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According to Reuters, the country's defence minister stated in August that BTS may still be able to perform overseas while serving in the military.
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