BTS Leader RM Reveals Members' Mental Struggles During Military Service
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- BTS leader RM revealed that group members experienced severe mental distress during their military service.
- He described an emotional gathering in 2024 where members discussed their struggles and the group's future.
- RM expressed a commitment to working harder to keep the group together and create a meaningful album for fans.
RM, the leader of the global sensation BTS, has opened up about the significant mental challenges faced by the group's members during their mandatory military service. He shared that the members experienced a period of profound distress, particularly during a gathering in 2024 at Jimin's home shortly after Jin completed his service.
When Jin-hyung finished his military service, at that time, everyone was in a bad mental state.
"When Jin-hyung finished his military service, at that time, everyone was in a bad mental state," RM stated during a recent Weverse live broadcast. He recalled the evening as highly emotional, marked by tears as the members candidly discussed their anxieties about the group's future and their individual experiences during enlistment. This period underscored RM's resolve to "work harder to keep this team together."
We talked about many things. I felt I had to work harder to keep this team together.
Looking ahead, RM emphasized his desire for BTS's upcoming album to serve as a token of gratitude for fans who have patiently awaited their return. The group has officially reunited after all seven members completed their military duties, which began in 2022. BTS is set to embark on an extensive world tour spanning 2026-2027, with an opening concert in Goyang, South Korea. The tour will feature songs from their new album, including "Body to Body," "Hooligan," "2.0," and "Like Animals." Additionally, BTS is slated to perform at the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Halftime Show alongside Madonna and Shakira in New York.
After making this album, we want to make it a gift for those who have waited.
Originally published by Republika in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.