BTS members RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook are reportedly enlisting within two days of each other. According to StarNews, RM and V are scheduled to enlist on December 11, while Jimin and Jungkook will follow on December 12. RM and V will enter boot camp as support or back line members, whereas Jimin and Jungkook will enlist as front line members.
In South Korea, mandatory military service requires young men to enlist in various capacities, with “front line” and “back line” soldiers serving in distinctly different environments and roles.
Remaining BTS members to enlist in military in December: report https://t.co/yKo3mJJTF9
— ABS-CBN News (@ABSCBNNews) November 29, 2023
What’s the difference?
Front line soldiers are positioned in high-security areas, particularly near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) that separates North and South Korea. Their duties are more combat-oriented and involve heightened vigilance due to the proximity to North Korea. This role is often seen as more challenging due to the demands of being in a potential conflict zone. The training for front line soldiers is rigorous, focusing on combat readiness and response to any military threats.
Back line soldiers, on the other hand, are stationed in less volatile areas. Their roles encompass a variety of non-combat duties, including administrative tasks, logistics, support functions, and technical roles. These positions are generally considered safer and less physically demanding than those on the front line. The training for back line soldiers is more oriented towards specific non-combat skills relevant to their assigned roles.
The assignment to front line or back line roles is influenced by a number of factors. These include physical fitness, skills, and the needs of the military. Some individuals might be placed in specialized units like the Air Force or Navy, where the distinction between front and back line is less pronounced but generally aligns with the back line in terms of reduced direct combat exposure.
This differentiation in roles reflects the diverse needs of the military in maintaining national security and the varied capabilities and preferences of the conscripts themselves. The experience of serving in either capacity can significantly impact the servicemen’s life, both during their service and in their post-military careers and social standing.
BTS members in the army
The four members will undergo approximately five weeks of basic military training. Afterwards, they will be active-duty soldiers for 18 months.
@rappler BTS’ RM, Jimin, V, #Jungkook preparing for #military enlistment #ThewRap #rappler #newsph #fyp
After the eldest member of BTS, Jin, enlisted in the army last December, j-hope followed in his footsteps last April, when he became an active-duty soldier. Meanwhile, SUGA has been serving as a social worker since September. He recently began basic training as well. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: The four BTS members will be discharged in the fourth quarter of 2025. Source: X/@btspicstwt_.