"I received a lot of good energy": J-Hope reflects on 18 months in the military, promises BTS reunion soon

In an interview with Apple Music 1’s Zane Lowe, BTS member J-Hope looked back on his 18 months in the South Korean military and said:

"I received a lot of good energy."

The singer was discharged in October 2024 and is now adjusting back to civilian life. In the recent interview, he shared what the experience taught him and how he feels now.

J-Hope, born Jung Ho-seok, is the second BTS member to complete his mandatory military service. The first was Jin. The other members—RM, Suga, V, Jimin, and Jung Kook—are expected to return by June 2025. During this time apart, most members have worked on solo projects. BTS has not released a group album since Be in 2020.

Even though he was away from the stage, J-Hope said he never gave up on his passion for music. Now that the group will be together soon, he and the other members are ready to reunite and plan for BTS’s future.

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What did J-Hope learn during his time in the military?

J-Hope said his time in the military was meaningful and full of new lessons. He met people from many walks of life and gained new experiences. He told Zane Lowe,

“It’s a different experience. Also, in reality, I’ve learned a different life.”

He explained that his service gave him time to reflect. He had the chance to slow down and think about his work and his life. Being in the military for a year and a half, J-Hope stated that he felt a lot of things. He said.

He also felt a strong sense of duty as a citizen.

“I think it’s only natural for young people in South Korea to take on this responsibility. I am a proud citizen of South Korea. I love my country. There are things that I cherish in this country.”

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How did military life affect his love for music?

Even while he was serving, J-Hope said he stayed connected to music. He continued to write and release solo work. This helped him stay grounded. J-Hope mentioned,

“Even though I was in the service, I think there was a part of me who never really let go of my love for music.”

Music remained a source of strength for him. It reminded him of who he is and what matters most.

“In the end, I think the most important thing was I realized how important the work I’ve been doing for all these years is incredibly meaningful to me,” he said.

His time away may have made him pause, but it didn’t take away his passion. Now that he’s back, he seems even more focused on what’s next.

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When will BTS be back together?

According to J-Hope, the BTS reunion is coming soon. He made it clear that all the members are eager to return as a group. He said,

“We will quickly get together and talk about what BTS can do in the future.”

Their break started when members began military service in late 2022. Since then, each member has taken time to grow in different ways. J-Hope believes this growth will only make their reunion stronger.

The members are expected to finish their service by June 2025. After that, fans can expect updates. While no exact date has been shared yet, it’s clear the group is already talking about what’s next. The wait may soon be over for ARMY around the world.

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J-Hope’s return from the military marks a key moment for BTS. He comes back with new experiences and a fresh point of view. He said that energy now fuels his excitement for the future.

The BTS members have spent nearly two years apart. They’ve worked on solo music, grown as individuals, and served their country. But now, the focus is shifting back to the group.

With all members set to return by mid-2025, a BTS reunion is not far off. Fans are waiting, and J-Hope’s words make one thing clear—they’re ready to come back, stronger than before.