Author: nagarathna

In today’s world, war remains a constant threat. That’s why several countries, including South Korea, have made military service mandatory. No matter what your job is or how rich or famous you are, you must serve in the military. By law, all able-bodied men are required to serve, while women can join only if they choose to volunteer for active or reserve duty. Military service usually lasts between 18 to 21 months.

Due to this rule, several Korean celebrities have taken a break from the spotlight to complete their military service. Now in 2025, many well-known celebrities, including K-pop and K-drama stars, are returning from service, and fans are eagerly waiting for their comeback. This year, big names, including BTS members and popular actors, are making their returns, and fans all over the world are excited to see them again. Here’s the list of Korean celebrities, some of who have already returned and others who are set to return from military service in 2025.

Lee Ji-hwan aka Joohoney

Lee Ji-hwan, who is known as Joohoney (Jooheon), began his military service on July 24, 2023, as an active-duty soldier. During his service, he reunited with his long-time friend RM from BTS, who shared a photo of them together on Instagram in May 2024. He completed his service on January 23, 2025.

Lee is a South Korean rapper and singer and a member of the group MONSTA X. He made his solo debut in 2023 with his EP Lights.

 

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Kim Jin-hwan aka Jay

Jay, also known as Kim Jin-hwan, the main vocalist, dancer and face of K-pop group iKON, took to his Instagram account to announce that he will be enlisting in the military on July 20, 2023. He completed his military service on January 17, 2025.

Jay has been in iKON group since 2015, and became the leader after B.I. left in 2019. He made a solo debut with the song ‘Paradise’ in 2023, just a month before he joined the military.

 

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Kim Jong-in aka Kai

Kim Jong-in, better known as Kai, started his military service on May 11, 2023. The South Korean singer, dancer and actor, who, after finishing his basic military training, served as a social service worker in the military. He completed his service on February 10, 2025.

Kai is a member of the boy group EXO and the supergroup SuperM. With EP Kai and the main song ‘Mmmh,’ he started his solo career in 2020. He is known as a fashion icon and is a brand ambassador for Gucci. He has been a muse for Yves Saint Laurent Beauty.

 

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Lee Dong-hyun

Lee Dong-hyun, who is known as Lee Do-hyun, gained popularity through TV series like Sweet Home and Youth of May. The South Korean actor started his military service on August 14, 2023 and served in the military band of the Republic of Korea Air Force. His military service was completed on May 13, 2025. His agency, YUEHUA Entertainment Korea confirmed that he has been receiving several offers and is likely to return to acting soon.

 

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Kihyun aka Yoo Ki-hyun

Yoo Ki-hyun, who goes by Kihyun, is the main vocalist of MONSTA X. He is also known for his solo albums like Voyager and Fatal Love. The South Korean singer started his military service on August 22, 2023, as a part of the 25th Infantry Division’s military band. He was discharged on February 21, 2025.

 

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Hyungwon aka Chae Hyung-won

Chae Hyung-won, better known as Hyungwon, is a South Korean DJ, singer, model and a member of MONSTA X. He has also acted in a few shows, including the web series CEO-dol Mart (2023). In 2023, he was named a brand ambassador for John Varvatos, and also became a model for luxury brand Parfums Givenchy.

Hyungwon joined the military service on November 14, 2023, as an active-duty soldier. In June 2024, he was promoted to corporal. He was discharged from military service on May 13, 2025.

 

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Song Kang

South Korean actor Song Kang, who is known for shows like Sweet Home and Love Alarm, joined military service after filming My Demon on April 2, 2024. He is currently serving in the military and is expected to complete his service by October 2025.

Song Kang is the brand ambassador for Bobbi Brown Cosmetics in the Asia-Pacific region.

 

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Kim Min-jae

The South Korean actor and rapper, who rose to fame with the TV shows like Dr Romantic, Tempted, and web series Bloodhounds, joined military service in September 2023. After five-week training programme, he was moved to the Army Band. During his military service, he reunited with his long-time BTS friend V. Their photo together after eight years was shared by bodybuilder and trainer, Ma Sun-ho. Kim completed his service on March 17, 2025.

 

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Kim Min-kyu

South Korean actor Kim Min-kyu, who rose to fame with the show Queen: Love and War and Business Proposal, began his military service as an active-duty soldier with a private ceremony on April 1, 2024. He is expected to be discharged by September 30, 2025. His fans are eagerly waiting for his return to acting.

 

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Kim Tae-hyung AKA V

BTS’ V began his acting career in 2016 with TV show Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth. In 2023, he began his solo music journey with songs- Love Me Again and Rainy Days. Kim is also a brand ambassador for major brands like Cartier, Celine and others. He began his military service on December 11, 2023, and is currently serving in Army’s Ssangyong unit under the 2nd Corps. He is expected to be discharged in June 2025.

 

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BTS’ RM AKA Kim Nam-joon

RM, also known as Kim Nam-joon from BTS, joined the military on the same day as his bandmate V. Currently, he is serving in the Special Task Force under the Capital Defense Command. The rapper is expected to be discharged on June 10, 2025.

The rapper, who is also a songwriter and record producer, began his solo career in 2022 with his first album, Indigo. He is also the brand ambassador for the Italian luxury brand Bottega Veneta. RM is famous for his calm and classy style.

 

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BTS’ Jungkook aka Jeon Jung-kook

Lovingly called the “it-boy” of K-pop, Jeon Jung-kook is one of the biggest K-pop stars today. His solo debut song, Seven set a record in 2023 by becoming the fastest track to hit 1 billion streams on Spotify. He made history by releasing Dreamers, becoming the first Korean artist to create a song for the FIFA World Cup in 2022. He also performed at the World Cup opening ceremony the same year. He enlisted on December 12, 2023, and is among the most awaited celebrities to complete service in 2025. During his military service, he took on the role of a cook. He is expected to be discharged on June 11, 2025.

BTS’ Jimin aka Park Ji-min

Jimin, who is one of BTS’ most loved members, joined the military service with his bandmate Jungkook. Before enlisting, the duo released a show called Are You Sure?! which gave a glimpse of their final days before service. During his service, he was assigned to the Artillery Fire Direction Centre. He is expected to be discharged in June 2025.

Jimin released solo album Face in 2023. He is also a brand ambassador for two LVMH brands, Dior and Tiffany & Co.

Sehun aka Oh Se-hun

Sehun is the youngest member of EXO. He rose to popularity with films and shows like Secret Queen Makers and All That We Loved and is also a brand ambassador for luxury brand Dior. The rapper and actor, who joined military service on December 21, 2023, is expected to be discharged on September 20, 2025. Suho, the leader of EXO, confirmed that the group is getting ready to hold a full-group fan meeting later this year.

Taeyong aka Lee Tae-yong

Taeyong debuted with the group NCT in 2016. In 2019, he became a member of the K-pop group SuperM and in June 2023, he made his solo debut with the EP Shalala. He is he global brand ambassador for the Spanish luxury brand Loewe. The rapper and songwriter was recently named the Korean ambassador for Benefit Cosmetics.

Taeyong began his military service on 15 April, 2024 and is currently serving in the Navy as active-duty soldier. He is expected to be discharged in December, 2025.

In a move that sent shockwaves through social media, BTS’s V (Kim Taehyung) delighted fans worldwide by sharing a series of candid gym snaps from his military service—featuring none other than actor Song Kang. The surprise came just hours before V’s official military discharge, fueling anticipation for BTS’s first full-group (OT7) reunion in nearly two years.

BTS members upcoming military discharge dates:

V – June 10
RM – June 10
Jungkook – June 11
Jimin – June 11
Suga – June 21 pic.twitter.com/ab0qCkK9v7

— About Music (@AboutMusicYT) June 3, 2025

A Viral Moment: V and Song Kang’s Military Bond

On June 9, 2025, V took to Instagram Stories to share rare glimpses into his life as a soldier. The photos and short videos showed V and Song Kang—both clad in military uniforms—working out together in the gym. The duo, sporting black tank tops and camouflage pants, showcased their impressive physiques, a testament to the rigorous training and discipline of their service.

Fans were quick to notice the playful camaraderie between the two stars. In addition to gym selfies, V and Song Kang posed together in a photobooth, flashing bright smiles, playful salutes, and heart gestures. The posts offered a refreshing, humanizing look at two of Korea’s biggest celebrities, now bonded by their shared military experience.

Fans React: “Visual Explosion” and “New Besties”

Several “We Are Back” banners have been spotted in Seoul celebrating #BTS‘ much awaited return, including a huge one in front of the HYBE building! 💪🖼️ 🎉🪖🪖🪖🪖🪖🏘️🔙❤️‍🔥💜pic.twitter.com/XXnseONm2v pic.twitter.com/H8NRrq78A7

— World Music Awards (@WORLDMUSICAWARD) June 9, 2025

The surprise updates instantly went viral. ARMYs (BTS fans) and K-drama enthusiasts flooded social media with enthusiastic reactions, praising the stars’ transformations and friendship. Comments ranged from awe at their “gorgeous buff bods” to memes about the “visual explosion” of seeing V and Song Kang together.

Many fans also expressed excitement over the unexpected celebrity friendship, with hashtags like #TaehyungSongKang and #MilitaryBesties trending across platforms. Fan art, edits, and messages of support poured in, highlighting the global impact of their posts.

V’s Transformation: Dedication and Discipline

V’s physical transformation during his military service has been widely discussed. Reports suggest he lost over 10 kg and gained significant muscle, a change noticed not only by fans but also by fellow idols like BigBang’s Daesung. The gym snaps served as visual proof of his hard work and dedication, further endearing him to fans and peers alike.

The Road to BTS’s OT7 Reunion

The timing of V’s posts couldn’t have been more perfect. He and BTS leader RM are set to be discharged on June 10, 2025, with other members like Jimin and Jungkook following soon after. This marks the beginning of BTS’s long-awaited OT7 reunion, with fans eagerly anticipating their first appearance as a complete group since 2023.

Speculation is rife about upcoming group activities, new music, and public appearances. The excitement is palpable, with the gym snaps serving as a symbolic “countdown” to a new era for BTS.

A New Chapter for V and Song Kang

Beyond the excitement for BTS, the gym snaps have also put a spotlight on Song Kang, who is expected to resume his acting career post-discharge. Fans are hopeful that the newfound friendship between V and Song Kang will lead to future collaborations or public appearances.

BTS’s V has once again proven his star power by turning a simple set of gym photos into a global event. His surprise military snaps with Song Kang not only showcased their impressive transformations but also set the stage for BTS’s historic OT7 reunion. As fans around the world celebrate, one thing is clear: the return of BTS and the emergence of new celebrity friendships are ushering in an exciting new chapter for K-pop and Korean entertainment.

After nearly two years of anticipation, the global phenomenon BTS is set to reunite in June 2025, marking a pivotal moment not just for their devoted ARMY but for the entire music industry. This reunion, following the completion of mandatory military service by all seven members, is poised to launch BTS into a new chapter—often dubbed “BTS 2.0”—characterized by artistic growth, emotional resonance, and renewed group synergy.

The Road to Reunion: Military Service and Solo Journeys

Since their group hiatus announcement during the 9th anniversary FESTA in June 2022, BTS members have focused on solo projects and fulfilled their national duties. Jin was the first to enlist in December 2022 and was discharged in June 2024, followed by J-Hope, who completed his service in October 2024. The remaining members—RM, V, Jimin, Jungkook, and Suga—have been on staggered timelines, each exploring new musical and personal frontiers during this period.

The discharge schedule for June 2025 is as follows:

By June 21, 2025, all seven members—Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—will officially be back together, ending the longest hiatus in BTS’s history.

FESTA 2025: A Celebration Like No Other

The reunion coincides with BTS’s 12th debut anniversary, which will be celebrated through the annual FESTA. This year’s event, scheduled for June 13 and 14, 2025, at the KINTEX Exhibition Center 2 in Goyang, South Korea, is set to be the most significant yet.

Key Highlights of FESTA 2025:

• Theme: “Twelve O’Clock,” inspired by the song “00:00 (Zero O’Clock),” symbolizing new beginnings and hope.

• Activities: The offline event will feature 20 interactive booths, FESTA-themed gaming zones, DIY photo stations, light shows, archive exhibits of BTS memorabilia, and voice zones with messages from the members.

• Fan Experience: The event will be an immersive journey through BTS’s legacy, running from 10 AM to 7 PM KST each day, with doors opening at 9 AM. Fans are encouraged to arrive early to experience the festivities fully.

• Member Participation: While Jin and J-Hope are confirmed to lead the festivities, the remaining members are expected to join as they complete their service, culminating in the full OT7 reunion after June 21.

The Emotional Build-Up: ARMY’s Global Anticipation

The BTS ARMY has mobilized worldwide, planning celebrations, digital events, and even traveling to Seoul to witness the members’ returns. Social media is awash with hashtags, fan art, and countdowns. Many fans have taken time off work or school to participate in live broadcasts of the discharges and FESTA events, underscoring the deep emotional connection between BTS and their global fanbase.

What’s Next for BTS? Comeback, Album, and World Tour

With the military chapter closing, speculation is rife about BTS’s next moves. HYBE and BigHit have confirmed that while the OT7 reunion is imminent, new group activities—including a full-group album and world tour—will require additional preparation time. The agency has emphasized that the members will deliberate on their creative direction, ensuring that their comeback reflects their growth and collective vision.

What’s on the Horizon:

• New Album: Although a full-group album is expected, it is likely to be released in late 2025 or possibly in 2026, as the group takes time to reflect on their personal journeys and creative direction.

• World Tour: BTS is rumored to embark on a massive world tour starting in 2026, with potential stops across North America, Europe, Asia, South America, and possibly India—a long-awaited destination for many fans.

• Solo and Group Activities: While the group will focus on reunifying, members will also continue to balance solo projects with group promotions, leveraging their individual artistic evolution to fuel BTS’s next era.

Legacy and Impact: BTS 2.0

This reunion is more than a return—it’s a reinvention. Each member brings back new influences: RM’s introspective lyricism, V’s jazz and R&B explorations, Jimin’s electronica-pop, Jungkook’s genre-blending, Suga’s production mastery, Jin’s emotive ballads, and J-Hope’s old-school hip-hop. Their collective artistry, matured through solo ventures and personal growth, promises to redefine BTS’s sound and message for years to come.

As Jin expressed in the FESTA 2025 announcement, “Twelve o’clock represents the time we begin again. It’s the future we’ll walk together with ARMY.”

June 2025 marks a historic turning point for BTS and their fans. The long-awaited reunion, anchored by the 12th anniversary FESTA and the completion of military service, sets the stage for a new era of music, unity, and inspiration. As BTS and ARMY stand together at “Twelve O’Clock,” the world watches, ready for the next chapter in the story of the band that changed everything.

SEOUL, South Korea — In a historic achievement for Asian artists and the global music industry, BTS member Jungkook’s debut solo album GOLDEN has officially surpassed 3 billion streams on Spotify, making it the first album by an Asian soloist to reach this milestone.

Released in November 2023, GOLDEN captured worldwide attention with its blend of pop, R&B, and EDM influences. The album’s rapid rise on Spotify was unprecedented: it crossed the 3 billion stream mark in just 140 days, outpacing global superstars such as Justin Bieber, Ariana Grande, and The Weeknd.

Industry analysts highlight that this achievement not only sets a new benchmark for K-pop and Asian soloists but also underscores Jungkook’s growing influence as a global pop figure. By May 2025, GOLDEN had accumulated over 5.5 billion streams, further solidifying Jungkook’s position as the most-streamed Asian solo artist on the platform.

The album’s standout tracks—“Seven” (featuring Latto), “Standing Next To You,” and “3D” (featuring Jack Harlow)—each surpassed 900 million streams, with “Seven” alone generating more than 2.3 billion streams. These figures are especially notable as Jungkook continues to serve his mandatory military duty in South Korea, with no active promotions during this period.

Fans and music critics have celebrated the milestone as a defining moment for Asian representation in global pop music. Social media platforms have been flooded with congratulatory messages, with fans hailing Jungkook as the “ACE OF ASIA.”

As the music industry continues to evolve, Jungkook’s streaming record with GOLDEN is expected to inspire a new generation of artists across Asia and beyond, demonstrating that language and geography are no barriers to global success.

“Jungkook’s achievement isn’t just a personal triumph—it’s a landmark moment for Asian artists on the world stage,” said a music industry analyst. “It signals a shift in the global music landscape, where talent and artistry are recognized regardless of origin.”

With GOLDEN continuing to dominate charts and break records, all eyes are on what Jungkook will accomplish next.

Netflix’s latest K-drama, Heavenly Ever After, has captured viewers’ hearts with its unique blend of fantasy, romance, and emotional storytelling. Starring Son Suk Ku and legendary actress Kim Hye Ja, the drama offers a fresh take on life, love, and forgiveness—all set in the afterlife.

With Episode 5 on the horizon, fans are eager to see how the story will unfold. Let’s revisit the highlights from Episodes 1 to 4 before diving into what to expect next.

The Story So Far: A Love Beyond Death

In Heavenly Ever After, 80-year-old Lee Hae-sook (Kim Hye Ja) reunites with her late husband Ko Nak-joon (Son Suk Ku) in heaven. Here, souls are allowed to choose their eternal age. Hae-sook chooses to remain 80 — a touching tribute to her life experiences and her husband’s final compliment:

“You were pretty at 20. And you were pretty at 40. But you… you’re the prettiest now.”

Though reunited, their joy is complicated. Nak-joon appears in his 30s, which causes discomfort for Hae-sook. As they adjust to the heavenly afterlife, the couple navigates unresolved secrets and emotional wounds from their time on Earth.

A Mysterious Connection: Som Yi Enters

The appearance of Som Yi (Han Ji Min), a mysterious woman who remembers nothing of her past except her bond with Nak-joon, adds tension to the narrative. Hae-sook, threatened by Som Yi’s presence, sarcastically calls her “Grape” — a symbolic reference to sin or disruption.

Despite the initial rivalry, Hae-sook and Som Yi begin to form an unlikely bond that resembles a mother-daughter relationship. The drama hints that Som Yi may be connected to Lee Young Ae, a woman from Hae-sook’s past known for her difficult nature, and potentially a link to Hae-sook’s own regrets.

Heaven Has Its Rules — and Warnings

In this afterlife, symbolic “grapes” are used as a moral warning system. As Hae-sook receives more of them, her place in heaven becomes uncertain. If a soul is found to be irredeemable — or if someone from hell is discovered in heaven — they may be permanently erased.

Hae-sook’s increasing number of grapes signals that her past mistakes may be too great to overlook. As she confronts her fears, her very existence in paradise is threatened.

Episode 5 Preview: Will Love Be Enough?

Episode 5 is expected to take a darker turn.

• Hae-sook is dragged toward hell, punished for what appears to be her final, unforgivable mistake — possibly helping Som Yi.

• Nak-joon is left stunned, helplessly watching his wife be taken away.

• He seeks help from the afterlife’s authority figure, but is warned of the risks involved in interference.

• Driven by love, Nak-joon prepares to defy the laws of heaven and enter the unknown — a realm of pain, loss, and spiritual danger.

The big question: Will Nak-joon succeed in rescuing Hae-sook, or will he lose himself in the process?

When and Where to Watch Episode 5

🗓 Release Date: Saturday, May 3, 2025
⏰ Time: 10:30 PM KST
📺 Original Network: JTBC
🌍 Streaming Platform: Netflix (in select regions)
📅 Schedule: New episodes air every Saturday and Sunday

Why You Should Watch Heavenly Ever After

With its emotional depth, stunning visuals, and touching performances by Kim Hye Ja and Son Suk Ku, Heavenly Ever After isn’t just a love story — it’s a meditation on memory, regret, and redemption. Whether you’re a fan of fantasy or a sucker for tearjerkers, this K-drama delivers both heart and soul.

Episode 5 is shaping up to be a turning point for Heavenly Ever After. As Hae-sook’s fate hangs in the balance and Nak-joon faces an impossible choice, the series reminds us that love doesn’t end with death — and that even in heaven, we may still be held accountable for the lives we lived.