BTS is Back: Jimin and Jungkook Return After Military Service

K-pop group BTS members Park Jimin and Jung Jungkook were discharged from the South Korean military on Wednesday after their 18-month-long service. The two also made a quick appearance at a public sports facility near their unit in Yeoncheon, dressed in their military uniforms. They addressed the fans, popularly called ARMY, gathered at the site while videos were shared online. Their agency, HYBE presented the two with flowers.

"It was my first time in the military, and honestly, it wasn't an easy place. If you see soldiers passing by, I'd be very grateful if you could even just say a warm word to them," said Jimin in a statement.

He opened up about his military life experience and the respect he developed for fellow soldiers. "We suffered together, learned a lot, ate together, and slept outside together, and I gained a lot of respect. I will hold these memories in my heart and cherish them for a long time. If I may say this to the people, the military wasn't an easy place. There are so many people who are having a hard time. If you see soldiers on the street, I think they would be grateful if you could give them a warm hug, even if it's just briefly," he added, according to India Today.

Jimin also thanked fans, saying, “Thank you to the fans who came from far away to see us. It's been a long time from COVID-19 to the military, so thank you for waiting.

Meanwhile, Jungkook said, "I'm a bit embarrassed because I didn't even put on makeup, so I don't know what to say," he said, sharing his gratitude for the soldiers who served alongside them.

He also added, “It's been so long since I've been in front of the camera, I'm embarrassed. I don't know what to say. Seniors, juniors... and executives who have worked harder than anyone else, thank you for working hard for us. I'm so grateful to them for taking such good care of us."

This comes just a day after other members V (Kim Taehyung) and RM (Kim Namjoon) were discharged as well, much to the excitement of their fans. Earlier this month, HYBE lit up their headquarters with the phrase 'We Are Back', sending social media into an absolute frenzy. The group is expected to make their highly-anticipated comeback soon, after Suga completes his military service on June 21.