Exploitative.
These are the sentiments of ARMYs after Korea’s Ministry of Defense decision regarding BTS’ impending military service. After HYBE’s announcement, the ministry’s acting spokesperson Col. Moon Hong-sik stated in a press briefing that “If it is for public service to the nation, or for national events or performances which benefit the nation, [BTS] will be given the opportunity to participate in performances and activities should they wish.” Earlier this month, Defense Minister Lee Jong-sup told a parliamentary audit that BTS members would be able to join even overseas performances during their military service.
To the KPop community, this is too much. According to Fortune Magazine, BTS contributes more than $3.6 billion to the South Korean economy annually. As per Hyundai Research Institute’s report in 2018, BTS’ contribution is equivalent to that of 26 midsize companies. People, ARMYs and citizens alike, find it insulting as BTS’ contribution was ignored, and now they’re being levied for public interest.
Opinion surveys taken in the past weeks showed that while the public was split, most Korean citizens voted for BTS to be exempted due to the national prestige they’ve given and their cultural and financial contributions to the country.
The Ministry of Defense’s remarks earned ire as many believe that BTS does not need added responsibilities on top of their crucial duty. Famous reporter Jae Ha Kim wrote a column that showed South Korea’s criteria for Military Exemption is outdated. It’s been proven that BTS did not do the “Yet to Come: Busan” concert for the sake of military exception. Many are also angered that BTS was forced to hold a concert, the company shouldering all the expenses as government officials held military benefits over their heads. Then they proceed to belittle the band all over the press, and now, this.
BigHit Entertainment announced that the members will reconvene as a group in 2025. ARMYs seek solace with BTS’s promise, promising to wait and others calling themselves “military wives.” For now, many await Jin’s solo song “The Astronaut.”
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