BTS reunion on the horizon? RM, V step back into the spotlight after military discharge
K-pop boy band BTS members RM (L) and V salute at an outdoor sporting facility in Chuncheon on June 10, after their release from 18 months of South Korean military service. (Photo by Shin Yong-ju / AFP)
With flowers in hand and hearts full of gratitude, RM and V of BTS stepped out of military life and back into the spotlight, saluting fans who waited patiently at the gates and promising a powerful return that is already sending waves through the global ARMY.
It was a cool Tuesday morning in South Korea, but the atmosphere outside the military base was with cheers and the sound of camera shutters clicking rapidly. Wearing their uniforms, BTS members RM and V emerged with joy and that familiar spark of charisma that once filled stadiums.
'To all the ARMYs who have waited for us in the military, I want to say I am truly, truly grateful. Please wait just a little longer and we will return with a really cool performance,' V said, addressing the fans who had gathered for the momentous occasion. K-pop boy band BTS members RM (L) and V gesture as they hold flower bouquets at an outdoor sporting facility in Chuncheon on June 10, after their release from 18 months of South Korean military service. (Photo by Shin Yong-ju / AFP)
The emotion in his words mirrored that of the devoted BTS fanbase, known as ARMY, who have been counting down the days for the group's full reunion. Dressed in uniform but carrying the same infectious energy that made him a global icon, RM echoed the excitement as he held a bouquet of flowers and even serenaded fans with a saxophone performance.
'(Members) would feel the same, but stage performance, I want to perform the most. I will work hard to make an album soon and come back to the stage,' RM said.
The return of RM and V brings the tally of reunited members to four, following the earlier military discharges of Jin and J-Hope. The remaining trio - Jimin, Jung Kook and Suga - are expected to complete their service by June 21.
As each member completes their national duty, the dream of seeing all seven together again, known affectionately among fans as 'OT7,' edges closer to reality.
The excitement is not only felt by fans. BTS's managing company, HYBE, is fueling the momentum with a major fan celebration this week: BTS FESTA, in honour of the band's 12th anniversary.
While it is not confirmed whether all members will attend, Jin's surprise appearance last year keeps hopes high for more fan-favorite moments.
The industry has already begun to react to the band's gradual comeback. Shares in HYBE rose by 2.3 per centa as anticipation builds not just for a reunion, but for what many expect to be a blockbuster return to music.
As the final days of military service tick down for the remaining members, the world is bracing for the return of a phenomenon.
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