The South Korean military decided not to have BTS member Jung Hoseok, aka j-hope, attend a big cooking competition. 

The Ministry of National Defense recently revealed that j-hope was supposed to host the International Military Culinary Competition. This event is a big deal, with people from countries like Singapore and the USA taking part. Organizers thought having a superstar like j-hope there would get the event more attention.

When talks began, the BTS member expressed interest in participating. Additionally, the military made a tentative agreement with BTS‘s agency, BigHit Music, for j-hope to simply host the event, without performing. Discussions on what he would wear and such were also underway. The Defense Media Agency even considered promoting the event using BTS-related video content.

For j-hope, it’s service over celebrity

However, the Minister of National Defense, Shin Won-sik, had second thoughts. Eventually, it was decided that it would be more appropriate for the members to demonstrate their dedication to their duties in uniform, as soldiers, rather than as celebrities. This decision was made to maintain the integrity of BTS’s stance on serving like anyone else. Before enlisting, the members had made it clear that they wanted to be treated like regular soldiers. This included not being featured or included in military-related events, despite their fame.

Luckily, BigHit Music understood this decision. While the military staff preparing for the event were disappointed, they also understood how the agency and the military leadership felt.

@ntrgrl22

That time the Korean military considered using #JHope as an MC for a military cooking competition but it was vetoed because they knew KDiamonds would band together in protest. #ARMY doesn’t play when it comes to our guys, BTS. #junghoseokbts #JungHoseok #BTSARMY #kdiamond Now no idol can be used outside of their military specialty.

♬ original sound – ntrgrl22

Jin, the eldest member of BTS, enlisted in December 2022, followed by j-hope this April. Both are serving diligently as instructors and special forces soldiers at the recruit training center. SUGA began his service in September with minimal media attention. Previously, the military considered inviting Jin and j-hope to a professional baseball game but ultimately decided against it to avoid placing undue pressure on the members.

Wanting to serve without the trappings of fame is a testament to BTS‘s dedication to their roles as soldiers. It shows a humility that resonates with both their fans and the general public. As the military and BTS continue to navigate the balance between duty and stardom, this decision stands as a poignant reminder of their resolve to prioritize service over celebrity. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: While some military personnel were disappointed, they understood the decision. Source: X/@jhopeGlobaI.