It’s June 2025—finally.
A month long anticipated by ARMY, the dedicated global fandom of Korean supergroup BTS. After years filled with longing, countdowns, and unwavering support, the wait is almost over. As of this month, the remaining five members—RM, V, Jimin, Jungkook, and SUGA—will complete their mandatory military service. RM, V, Jimin, and Jungkook are expected to return next week, while SUGA, who served as a public service worker due to a shoulder injury, is also set to finish his enlistment.
This moment has been three years in the making.
It was during their 9th anniversary, during the now-iconic Festa Dinner in June 2022, when leader RM spoke candidly about the group’s growth and the need for individual exploration. What was meant to be a celebration turned into an emotional, historic night. With tears and heartfelt admissions, BTS revealed their decision to take a temporary hiatus to focus on solo projects—a moment that paused not only ARMY but the entire global music industry.
Just a few months later, in October 2022, after their electrifying concert in support of Busan’s World Expo bid, BigHit Music officially announced BTS’s enlistment schedule, starting with the eldest member, Jin. It marked the beginning of a bittersweet chapter—one of farewells, countdowns, and resilience.
A Solo Era Like No Other
But even in separation, BTS never truly left. What followed was an extraordinary display of artistry and strategy. Chapter 2, as fans call it, brought a cascade of solo projects that kept the BTS name resonating around the world.
- J-Hope made history with his groundbreaking album Jack In The Box, headlining Lollapalooza as the first South Korean act to do so, and dropping his surprise follow-up album HOPE ON THE STREET VOL.1 alongside a docu-series.
- RM released Indigo, a deeply personal and artful record that featured collaborations with respected global musicians and debuted on Billboard’s Top 10. Followed by his most-acclaimed album to date, RPWP (Right Place, Wrong Person).
- Jimin soared with FACE, becoming the first Korean soloist to top the Billboard Hot 100 with “Like Crazy.” He also released his 2nd album, Muse last July 2024 with the lead single, “Who”
- SUGA, under his alias Agust D, embarked on a successful solo tour with the album D-DAY, showcasing his raw musical depth and storytelling. He also released collab with Halsey.
- V debuted with Layover, a jazz-infused R&B album that highlighted his distinct vocal tone and aesthetic. He also released his solo singles, “Friends, “Winter Ahead and White Christmas”. He also have a collab with Umi.
- Jungkook became an international pop force with GOLDEN, breaking streaming records and collaborating with artists like Jack Harlow, Latto, and Justin Timberlake.
- Jin, even before enlistment, gifted fans with The Astronaut, co-written with Coldplay—a heartfelt farewell that became a comfort to millions. Just last month, he released his 2nd album, “Echo” with the lead single “Don’t Say You Love Me”.
Each member achieved milestones on the Billboard charts, dominated global streaming platforms, earned critical acclaim, and expanded their individual artistry—all while staying connected to the group’s shared identity.
The World Waits: The Return of Seven
Since June 2024, ARMYs began marking their calendars again—not for solo releases this time, but for the return of each member from military service. Jin returned earlier this year, followed by J-Hope. Now, as June 2025 unfolds, the countdown hits its final stretch. In less than a week, BTS will be seven again.
Festa 2025 has officially begun. On June 1, BigHit Music unveiled the much-awaited Festa schedule, igniting a wave of celebration across social media. Special content, heartfelt messages, throwback videos, and more are set to drop throughout the month, culminating in what fans hope will be a reunion moment of epic proportions—if not a full-fledged comeback announcement.
Why the Music Industry Is Watching Closely
BTS’s return is not just a fan event—it’s a seismic moment for the global music industry. As pioneers who redefined what it means to be a global pop act from South Korea, BTS’s comeback is expected to shift trends, sales charts, and cultural conversations. Their hiatus didn’t dim their influence; it only heightened the anticipation for what’s next.
Industry experts note how no other group has managed to maintain such a powerful presence during a break. From record-breaking solo endeavors to consistently trending content, BTS stayed on top—without being together. Their return promises not just music, but moments that will again transcend borders, languages, and generations.
As BTS prepares to celebrate their 12th anniversary with ARMY next week, the world stands ready. Booked, busy, and brimming with excitement, the BTS comeback isn’t just imminent—it’s inevitable.
ARMY assemble. BTS is so back.
