BTS’s Jimin and Jungkook have successfully completed their basic military training. They enlisted together under the buddy system in December last year. The completion ceremony, marking the end of their training, took place at the 5th Division’s Recruit Training Center on January 17.
Before the ceremony, Jimin wrote a heartfelt letter that was subsequently posted on Weverse. “A little over a month has passed. There are times when it feels like a long time, and there are times when it seems to go by quickly because Jungkook is next to me. It hasn’t been a long time but I already miss you a lot,” he began, addressing the fans.
“I say hello to the members on the pay phone, and Jungkook is also working hard in the military. He’s doing so well that the kids say, ‘As expected of Jungkook–hyung.’ He sticks with me and gives me a lot of support and strength,” Jimin added. “I’ll be going to my assigned military base soon, and I’ll adjust and try to do my best. ARMYs, please be careful not to catch a cold, don’t get sick, eat well, and think only good thoughts. Anyway, I’ll write to you when I get to the base. I love you!”
Jungkook also updated fans after the completion ceremony simply by writing one word (“Unity!”) on Weverse. He dominated social media trends after this brief message, with fans expressing their joy and relief at seeing him complete basic training safely. Finally, Jimin’s father posted some photos from the completion ceremony on the Instagram page of his café. The photos came with a message for ARMY, in which Jimin expressed gratitude for their love and support.
What will Jimin and Jungkook do next?
During the ceremony, Jimin received a commendation from his division commander, a prestigious award given to the unit’s top trainee. This commendation includes benefits like an early promotion and five-day, four-night vacation. This achievement reflects his exceptional performance across various aspects of military training, including discipline, leadership skills, physical fitness, and tactical knowledge.
Both Jimin and Jungkook were initially assigned to the 5th Infantry Division, where fellow BTS member Jin is serving. However, after a more detailed second classification was conducted, Jimin and Jungkook were identified as suitable for a more specialized function and were reassigned to an artillery battalion. An artillery battalion uses large-caliber guns, howitzers, and mortars to launch powerful, long-range attacks against enemy forces and fortifications.
@jiminahhlover0 I’m so proud of my favorite duo love you both🥰🥰🥰
Jimin and Jungkook may end up operating the K55 or K9 self-propelled artillery pieces. The K55, a mobile howitzer with a 155mm cannon, offers rapid deployment and robust fire support. The more advanced K9 Thunder has greater range, firing rate, and mobility, among other enhancements. It was once used to fire warning rounds near the Northern Limit Line in response to North Korean provocations.
As they continue their service, away from the stage but ever-present in the hearts of the ARMY, Jimin and Jungkook are showing that they’re dedicated soldiers as well as talented musicians. Fans, though concerned for their safety, are proud of their achievements and await their musical comeback in 2025. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: Their families took these photos the day they graduated. Sources: X/@army_bts_do8es, X/@BTS7army1316, X/@sottjm.