After BTS announced their intentions to serve their mandatory military duties later this year, the Defense Ministry revealed Tuesday, October 18, that members of the world-famous K-pop band can still join “national” events intended for the “public good.”
The ministry’s acting spokesperson Col. Moon Hong-sik dropped the statement a day after the super group’s agency Big Hit Music revealed that each member wants to fulfill their military service.
The members plan to start their duties before the end of the year, starting with the eldest member Jin who will proceed with the enlistment process after concluding the promotions for his solo projects by end of October.
“Our position is that we will provide an opportunity if they wish to participate when there is a national-level event for the public good or an event designed in light of the national interest,” the acting spokesperson said in the ministry’s regular press briefing.
The colonel also mentioned that the same opportunity can be extended to other individuals who are serving their duties under the present regulations.
Earlier in October, Defense Minister Lee Jong-sung announced during a parliament audit that members of BTS can join overseas performances while serving in the military.
Source: The Korea Times
