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KORAIL Employee Who Violated BTS’ RM’s Privacy Has Been Reinstated

The Korean Railway Corporation (KORAIL) has found itself in the midst of controversy as reports emerge of the reinstatement of an employee, referred to as “A,” who had been dismissed for illegally accessing personal data about BTS leader RM.

KORAIL Reinstates Employee Who Violated BTS RM’s Privacy

According to Dispatch, the decision to reinstate “A” came after a second review of the offense by the Central Labor Relations Commission. The employee, previously in charge of IT development at KORAIL, reportedly accessed RM’s personal information, including ticket details, address, and mobile phone number, over a period of three years starting in 2019.

It was revealed that “A” admitted to accessing RM‘s reservation information with the intention of seeing him in person. Furthermore, they shared details about the BTS leader’s seat with a friend to allow them to reserve a nearby seat. KORAIL acknowledged that “A” was a fan and characterized the actions as stemming from curiosity rather than malice.

Why The KORAIL Employee’s Reinstatement Might Be A Bad Move

The breach of privacy raised serious concerns as it violated the Personal Information Protection Act, which stipulates that customer information should only be accessed for necessary service processing. Unauthorized access to personal data, especially for non-business purposes, is strictly prohibited.

In addition to accessing RM’s information, “A” reportedly engaged in similar unauthorized access to personal data belonging to other KORAIL employees. The breach was brought to light during an internal audit, leading to the termination of “A’s” employment.

Despite the severity of the privacy breach, the reinstatement decision has sparked controversy and raised eyebrows. The initial dismissal of “A’s” application for a review highlighted the gravity of the situation. However, the subsequent reversal of this decision by the Central Labor Relations Commission has left many questioning the ethics and principles governing the protection of individuals’ private information.

This incident sheds light on the challenges organizations face in balancing the rights of employees with the need to maintain a secure and respectful work environment. The decision to reinstate “A” emphasizes the importance of a thorough examination of privacy breaches and calls for a reevaluation of the existing legal framework governing personal data protection in the workplace. The controversy surrounding KORAIL’s decision serves as a reminder of the ongoing discussions and efforts needed to safeguard individuals’ privacy in an increasingly digitalized world.

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Watch: BTS Shares Rm, V, Jimin and Jungkook’s Military Entrance Ceremony

In an almost four-minute Bangtan Bomb clip, BTS shared the last moments of RM, V, Jimin and Jungkook before officially starting their mandatory military service. 

The heartwarming video showed the group’s leader and the maknae (youngest) line saying their goodbyes at the entrance ceremony. To recall, RM and V first entered the military on December 11th, while Jimin and Jungkook followed on December 12th. 

ARMYs, the group’s fanbase, were even more emotional seeing the older members Jin, Suga and J-Hope, who have already started their service, send off the remaining members. 

On their official X account, the members were seen striking a pose in an OT7 photo.  “Have a nice trip. Fighting,” the caption read. 

Moreover, Jin also shared photos in his personal Instagram account. Together with RM and V, the singer wrote: “Go and come back safely without getting hurt, my babies.” Meanwhile, for his photo with Jimin and Jungkook, Jin wrote: “I thought it’d be funny. But tears are…”

Furthermore, the footage also showed HYBE Chairman and producer Bang Si Hyuk preparing the necessary essentials for the idols. In a father-like gesture, Bang PD gifted the boys some face cream and hot packs before their departure.

As promised by the “Dynamite” singers, the group will return with complete members in 2025.

ARMYs’ promise to wait for BTS

With all the seven members now fulfilling their duties, ARMYs, overwhelmed with emotions, express their promise to wait for the K-pop powerhouse. The dedicated fandom trended the phrase “See you in 2025” after the members’ last content. 

On social media, fans showered the boys with well wishes and a healthy service. “Our paths will cross again. Until then, take care of yourself, serve well and come back safely!, one fan said.

https://twitter.com/ChartObsessed7/status/1734148042570514699

 

While some fans are saddened with the maknae line enlisting, some ARMYs remain optimistic especially with Jin’s nearing dischargment. Since he started his service in December 2022, the eldest member will finally be back in June 2024.

Featured image: All seven members of BTS reunite before the enlistment of RM, V, Jimin, and Jungkook. Credit: Twitter/BTS

 

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BTS’ RM Bids Farewell to Fans in a Heartfelt Letter Prior to Military Service

Ahead of his impending military enlistment, RM from BTS has conveyed a heartfelt message to his fans. On Sunday, December 10, the leader took to Weverse to share a touching letter expressing his sentiments with ARMY.

Initially, the rapper revealed that he wanted to convey a lot to his fans. But as he’s writing the letter, he’s struggling to find the right words to express his thoughts. “I feel like there were so many things I wanted to say to you. But now that it’s here, I can’t seem to find the right words,” he wrote, according to a translation by Soompi

RM, or Kim Nam-joon in real life, also looked back at his idol journey, saying that the past decade as a member of BTS has been an immense source of joy for him. “I have faith and I have no doubt that after this passes, new good things will be waiting for us,” he told fans. 

As he starts talking about the military, the BTS leader also acknowledged how hard it must have been for members Seokjin and Hoseok, who enlisted ahead of the rest of the group. Although his realization may come belatedly, RM complimented how his older members faced those difficult challenges. “But seeing them gallantly doing such a great job gives me unparalleled courage,” he said. 

RM assures ARMY 

As military services, in general, can be an uncertain time for both artists and fans, the “Wild Flower”  singer implored to find inspiration instead in the new and unfamiliar circumstances. “Though I’m scared and fearful as well, what could be more comforting than the fact that there is something to anticipate and look forward to during this uncertain time,” he said. 

And the BTS leader declared that it’s the fans’ love who will help him navigate this unfamiliar situation. “Even though there may be times when I feel lonely and melancholy, I think I already feel replete inside with that love,” he said. Additionally, he also hopes that he’ll be able to reciprocate that love by being a constant presence for his supporters. 

Furthermore, instead of parting words, RM said that it’s the “time and love and sincerity” shared between BTS and ARMY that will shape their future. “I wanted to be someone who is always by your side, even when I’m not by your side,” he shared. 

“This goodbye is just a goodbye for a little while. When I return, I will say hello again as I greet you,” he ended the post. “Whenever and wherever we are, here’s hoping that we will be us. Let’s meet in the future. I love you a lot.” 

Will wait for you in 2025, BTS! 

Together with Jimin, V, and Jungkook, they’re the only remaining members of the K-pop powerhouse who have yet to fulfill their respective military service. Earlier enlistments saw Jin, the oldest member, start his enlistment in December 2022. Then, he’s followed by j-hope in April 2023 and Suga in September 2023. 

In November, BigHit Music announced that the four remaining members have already initiated the military enlistment process.

Consequently, BigHit Music also didn’t disclose the enlistment dates and sites of the members. Although there are reports from South Korean media outlets that RM and V will enlist on December 11, while Jimin and Jungkook will follow on December 12. 

With all the BTS members enlisting before 2023 ends, there’s a high possibility that all seven will have finished their services by 2025. In a previous livestream, RM assured fans that the group will “be back for sure” in 2025.

In September 2023, all seven members of BTS renewed their contract with BIGHIT Music for the second time.

Featured image: BTS’ RM poses for his solo album ‘Indigo.’ Credit: Facebook/BTS

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BigHit Music Shares Update on Military Enlistment of Remaining BTS Members

BigHit Music, the agency of K-pop juggernaut BTS, has unveiled additional details about the impending military enlistment of RM, V, Jimin, and Jungkook.

In a statement released on Tuesday, December 5, BigHit Music confirmed that the four members would be fulfilling their mandatory military service soon. According to the label, RM and V would follow their respective military enlistment procedures. Meanwhile, Jimin and Jungkook are scheduled to enlist simultaneously. 

Furthermore, the agency announced that there would be no official event on the day of their entry into the military. Additionally, BigHit Music emphasized that entrance ceremonies are private affairs that should only be attended solely by military personnel and the members’ families. With this, fans were strongly advised against visiting the site to prevent any potential issues like crowding. 

“Please convey your warm regards and encouragement in your hearts only,” the agency said. 

Moreover, BigHit Music  also cautioned fans against purchasing any tours or products that unlawfully utilized BTS intellectual property. As such, they also vowed to take necessary legal actions against any commercial activity involving these unauthorized use of IPs. 

At the end of their statement, the agency asked for the fans’ continued love and support for the BTS members until they return from finishing their respective military services. “Our company will also strive to provide all the support they need during this time,” they said. 

BTS to reconvene as a full group in 2025

In November, BigHit Music announced that members—RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook— have already initiated the military enlistment process. 

Notably, the  four are the only remaining members of the seven-piece act who are yet to commence their military service. Earlier enlistments saw Jin, the oldest member, start his enlistment in December 2022. Then, he’s followed by j-hope in April 2023 and Suga in September 2023. 

In their latest post, BigHit Music also didn’t disclose the enlistment dates and sites of the members. Although there are reports from South Korean media outlets that RM and V will enlist on December 11, while Jimin and Jungkook will follow on December 12. On top of that, there’s also speculation as to what divisions and which boot camps the members will enlist. But BigHit Music refused to confirm any reports. 

 

With all the BTS members enlisting before 2023 ends, there’s a high possibility that all seven will have finished their services by 2025. In a previous livestream, RM assured fans that the group will “be back for sure” in 2025.

In September 2023, all seven members of BTS renewed their contract with BIGHIT Music for the second time.

Featured image: RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook for the group’s 2022 Festa photos. Credit: Facebook/BTS

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BTS’ RM, Jimin, V, Jungkook Prepare for Military Enlistment

Attention, ARMYs! Members RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook of K-pop powerhouse BTS have officially initiated the process of enlisting for their mandatory military service, their agency BIGHIT Music announced on Wednesday, November 22. 

In a notice posted on the fan community app Weverse, the agency informed fans of the significant transition process in the group. 

“We would like to inform our fans that RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook have initiated the military enlistment process. The artists are preparing to fulfill their military service duties,” their statement read. 

Although the specific dates for their enlistment were not provided, the label assured fans that updates would be communicated in “due course.”

“We ask for your continued love and support for RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook until they complete their military service,” the agency said. Additionally, BIGHIT Music also promised fans that they will “spare no effort” in providing support for their artists.  

Notably, the  four are the only remaining members of the seven-piece act who are yet to commence their military service.

Earlier enlistments saw Jin, the oldest member, start his enlistment in December 2022. Then, he’s followed by j-hope in April 2023 and Suga in September 2023. 

In October 2022, BIGHIT Music announced that all seven members of BTS will fulfill their mandatory military service. At the time, the agency disclosed that BTS intends to reconvene as a whole around 2025. 

The mandatory military service, lasting at least 18 months, is a requirement for all able-bodied South Korean men under the age of 30, with few exceptions. 

See you in 2025, BTS! 

In June 2022, the septet announced that they’re taking a break from group activities to focus on solo projects as well as military enlistment.

Since then, the members have put out individual releases including j-hope with Jack in the Box, Jin with Astronaut, RM with Indigo, Jimin with Face, V with Layover, and Jungkook with GOLDEN

In September 2023, all seven members of BTS renewed their contract with BIGHIT Music for the second time. 

After debuting in 2013, the seven-piece act has become ostensibly the biggest K-pop group in the world. In fact, they even entered the Guinness World Records 2022 Hall of Fame in September 2021.  

Featured image: RM, Jimin, Jungkook, and V pose for photos. Credit: Facebook/BTS

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BTS’ RM Discusses Latest Eye Injury

RM is finally opening up about his recent eye injury. The BTS leader revealed what happened to his eye and shared an update for his fans.

BTS Leader RM Discusses Recent Eye Injury

In a recent live broadcast on Weverse, BTS’s RM opened up about a recent eye injury, providing concerned ARMYs with an update on his condition. RM has a history of sharing his everyday life with fans in an unfiltered manner, creating a sense of trust between him and ARMYs.

Last week, RM had posted a story on his Instagram, revealing a sizable wound on his eyelid, prompting fans to express both concern for his well-being and curiosity about the cause of the injury. During the live broadcast, RM addressed these inquiries, explaining that the injury occurred while he was filming something, and the camera accidentally hit his face, resulting in heavy bleeding.

To treat the wound, RM underwent a procedure that required approximately five stitches. Despite the severity of the injury, RM reassured fans that it was healing adequately, although it has now developed into a bruise.

On the same day as the livestream, RM shared an Instagram update, showcasing the progress of the cut’s healing. Despite his reassurances, ARMYs remain heartbroken over the extent of his injury and have flooded him with well wishes for a speedy recovery. The incident has once again highlighted RM’s transparency with his fans, creating a strong bond between the BTS leader and the ARMY community.

In related news, Jungkook was recently interviewed by Zane Lowe for Apple Music, and the BTS member discussed his new album ‘GOLDEN’, his solo aspirations, his trainee days, hopes for the BTS’s 2025 reunion, and more. The “SEVEN” singer also addressed the “Golden Maknae” nickname which RM originally coined for him.

Even in 20 or 30 years, I will always be the youngest, the ‘maknae.’ That will never change. And I don’t really dislike being called ‘maknae,’” Jungkook said.

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RM Confirms BTS Contract Renewal With BIGHIT MUSIC

It’s official: all seven members of BTS have renewed their contracts with BIGHIT Music. Several news outlets were quick to print the news but ARMYs had a more reliable source. RM announced the BTS contract renewal on his official social media accounts and it further confirmed the group’s love for their fans.

RM Confirms BTS Contract Renewal on Instagram

In a surprising turn of events, all seven members of the globally renowned K-Pop sensation, BTS, have officially renewed their exclusive artist contracts with BIGHIT MUSIC, as reported on September 20, KST. This announcement has come as a pleasant shock to devoted ARMYs, as the group’s previous contract was still in effect. However, the BTS members have a history of opting for early renewals, highlighting their commitment to their future together.

In a heartwarming gesture, RM, the group’s leader, took the initiative to share the news directly with ARMYs. He posted a photo of the contract document on his Instagram, followed by another story dedicated to their devoted fanbase. RM’s actions not only revealed the unexpected contract renewal but also provided ARMYs with the assurance they may not have even realized they needed.

BTS initially signed their first contract with BIGHIT in 2013, which was set to last until 2020. Remarkably, in 2018, they chose to renew their contract well ahead of its expiration date, showcasing their strong bond and determination to continue their remarkable journey. Their second contract, originally set to conclude in 2025, coinciding with the year when all BTS members are expected to complete their mandatory military service, has been extended by two years, ensuring their continued presence as a group.

This announcement has brought immense joy and relief to fans, as it guarantees the group’s unity and the highly anticipated reunion expected in 2025. The early renewal reaffirms the enduring commitment and enduring bond shared by BTS and their dedicated supporters worldwide.

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Jeon Somi Discusses New Friendship With BTS’ RM

Jeon Somi is opening up about her new friendship with a K-pop superstar. The “Dumb Dumb” singer reportedly discussed how she met BTS leader RM. In addition to that, Somi revealed some interesting details about how she and Kim Namjoon communicate.

Somi Reportedly Talks About New Friendship With RM of BTS

On September 4, an observant netizen took to an online community forum and shared an intriguing post titled, “Jeon Somi Reveals Friendship with BTS’s RM.” In their post, they included a screenshot of an article capturing a noteworthy moment from Somi’s recent fan sign event.

The article highlighted Jeon Somi’s revelation to her fans about her newfound friendship with RM of BTS. According to her, this connection had only recently blossomed, with their initial encounter occurring at G-Dragon’s exclusive ‘PEACEMINUSONE X Nike’ private dinner event. It’s worth noting that PEACEMINUSONE is G-Dragon’s renowned brand, sparking speculations that he might have played a pivotal role in introducing Jeon So Mi and RM to each other.

What piqued the curiosity of fans even more was Jeon Somi’s disclosure that she often engaged in conversations with RM in English. This linguistic connection added an extra layer of intrigue to their blossoming friendship. The revelation stirred excitement within both Somi’s and BTS’s fandoms, further cementing the dynamic nature of the K-pop industry’s interpersonal relationships.

Somi soared to nationwide recognition when she secured the coveted first position on the competitive reality show “Produce 101,” which led to her membership in the eleven-member project girl group, I.O.I. Following the disbandment of I.O.I, she inked a contract with YG Entertainment’s subsidiary, The Black Label. This pivotal move marked the commencement of her solo artist career, with her debut taking place on June 13, 2019. Recently, Jeon Somi signed with Universal Music Japan and is preparing for her Japanese debut.

Meanwhile, RM recently revealed he would “not be taking on any projects in the near future.” This is in connection with his approaching mandatory military service.

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BTS’s RM Turns Up The Heat With Shirtless Workout Video

RM is setting fans’ hearts ablaze with his captivating presence. The BTS sensation has garnered significant attention and affection for his impressively chiselled physique. Renowned for his diligent commitment to workout routines, RM has recently left fans even more astonished by displaying a perfectly balanced array of muscles. His dedication to fitness continues to be a source of admiration and inspiration for many.

BTS Leader RM Drops Unexpected Workout Video on Weverse

On August 20, RM shared a video on BTS’ Weverse account. At first, ARMYs thought it was just another video featuring the rapper’s travels or art he found during his journeys. However, it turned out to be a brief workout video where Kim Namjoon shed his shirt and did his regular pull-ups.

Not surprisingly, the workout video already has fans going crazy. Although this might appear to be a regular thirst trap posted on Weverse, the always-talented ARMYs had creative ways of dealing with the post. For instance, one fan decided to take the educational route. They pointed out the various muscles on display in the video.

RM, who serves as BTS’ leader, embarked on his solo journey with a bang. In 2015, he dropped his debut solo mixtape titled “RM,” a move that marked his individual artistic prowess. Building on this foundation, RM unleashed his second mixtape, “Mono,” in 2018. Notably, “Mono” etched its name in history by becoming the highest-charting album by a Korean soloist in the United States, ascending to an impressive number 26 on the prestigious Billboard 200 chart.

The pinnacle of Kim Namjoon’s solo career arrived in 2022 when he officially debuted with his studio album “Indigo.” This remarkable release featured collaborations with acclaimed artists like Erykah Badu and Anderson .Paak. The album skyrocketed to number three on the Billboard 200, cementing RM’s status as the highest-charting Korean soloist ever on this prestigious chart. His solo journey continues to be a testament to his talent and global appeal.

RM is currently set to begin his military enlistment later this year. Keep checking this page for more updates.

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RM Assures Armys That BTS Will ‘Be Back for Sure’ in 2025

Following BTS’ hiatus from group activities in June 2022, the members have been focused on their solo ventures. But despite these series of individual releases, ARMYs couldn’t help but miss seeing the seven members together. 

On August 12, RM held a livestream wherein he opened up about BTS reconvening as a full group, as well as his thoughts on their hiatus and solo activities. 

 

RM’s statement came after he read a heartfelt letter from a fan who expressed how BTS meant a lot to them. In their message, the ARMY also shared how they’ll patiently wait for 2025 to see the group as a whole  again. 

In response, the BTS leader assured the group’s supporters that the members are also looking forward to them reuniting. 

“What I’m thinking these days when I’m doing my solo projects is, this is just like a vacation to get back to where I was,” he said. “Which is BTS and ARMY. So all this solo (work) is just a journey.” 

But RM also emphasized the significance of these individual ventures. “It is a very important journey for chapter two. But it’s a journey to get back home safe. And eventually, we’ll get back and reunite together in 2025. 

BTS’ love for ARMYs 

RM also took the opportunity to convey how BTS never took their fans’ support and love for granted. He added that even with their solo ventures, ARMYs are always put into consideration. 

“I hope our songs and solo projects could be  another reminder to you guys of how important ARMY was has been, and will be in our lives at the same time,” he said. 

The rapper continued that all the other BTS members are also deeply appreciative of their dedicated throng of supporters. 

“This is a greatness of love. When I face this kind of love, I feel like it’s irresistible. And that’s what makes me go through all those trials and hardships and shits happening in life,” RM added. 

What the BTS members have been up to 

Since June 2022, all seven members of BTS have had their solo releases. 

Jin released his single The Astronaut” in October 2022, while RM released his solo album Indigo in December 2022. 

Meanwhile, Jimin featured on BIGBANG Taeyang’s “Vibe” and released his solo debut album Face in March 2023. 

On the other hand, Suga started his web talk show Suchwita. He also released the album D-Day in April 2023 and embarked on his solo concert world tour. 

As for j-hope, he released Jack In The Box in July 2022 and headlined Lollapalooza festival. After that, a Disney+ documentary series about these solo projects was also released. 

Then, Jungkook collaborated with Charlie Puth for “Left and Right.” In July 2023, he released his single Seven.” 

Lastly, member V has participated in series In the Soop: Friendcation and Jinny’s Kitchen. Now, he’s about to make his solo debut with the album Layover, which will be out on September 8. 

Also, two BTS members, Jin and j-hope are currently serving in the military. Furthermore, Suga has also started the military enlistment process. 

Featured image: BTS during filming ‘Yet to Come’ music video. Credit: Facebook/BTS

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