K-pop superstars BTS took a hiatus in 2023, marking one of their most intriguing years.
“Despite being on a mandatory hiatus for South Korean military service, BTS enjoyed a remarkable year. Last December, RM released ‘Indigo,’ his first solo album since 2018, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard 200. In March, J-Hope’s collaboration with J. Cole, ‘On the Street,’ entered the lower half of the Billboard Hot 100. Jimin’s synthpop single ‘Like Crazy’ claimed the No. 1 spot on the Hot 100 in April, a feat not achieved since Psy’s ‘Gangnam Style.’ Suga, using his Agust D alias, secured the No. 2 spot on the Billboard 200 with ‘D-Day’ in May and successfully completed a sold-out nationwide arena tour, including two nights at the Kia Forum.”
“In July, Jungkook achieved his first Hot 100 No. 1 single with ‘Seven,’ featured with Latto, a standout track from his English-language pop album ‘Golden,’ reaching No. 2 on the charts. In September, V made his debut with the album ‘Layover,’ securing the No. 2 spot, trailing only Olivia Rodrigo.”
BTS, widely recognized as one of the biggest global groups, along with their label Big Hit Music, have devised a strategic plan to engage fans during the 18-month military service commitments of the seven members. In South Korea, mandatory military service typically occurs by the age of 28, although certain K-pop stars can defer until 30. This period is historically significant for male acts, as it can either impact their momentum or mark a shift away from their early, more youthful style.
BTS, a renowned group with members aged between 25 and 30, is expected to receive a warm welcome back from fans after completing their military service in 2025. Their past sold-out shows at SoFi Stadium in 2021 and the Rose Bowl in 2019 highlight their massive popularity. Big Hit and its parent company, Hybe, are making significant strides into hip-hop, Latin, and global music. In 2023, it’s evident that BTS members are successfully making a mark as solo artists in the U.S.
According to K-pop expert Jeff Benjamin, “BTS is establishing a new standard for K-pop and global acts. Before them, consistent record-breaking careers like this were rare. While more K-pop acts are achieving success, none have surpassed what BTS has achieved.BTS members started their individual military service journeys, with Jin enlisting in December 2022, followed by J-Hope. Suga took on a role as a social service agent due to an old shoulder injury, serving for 21 months. This month, RM, V, Jimin, and Jungkook also began their enlistments. The members shared photos of shaving their heads, a common initial step in preparing for military service.
Despite a temporary break, BTS has maintained a strong presence in pop culture over the past year. Their greatest-hits double-LP, “Proof,” released last year, included two new songs, “Yet to Come (the Most Beautiful Moment)” and “Run BTS,” offering fans a glimpse of the future. In June, they released the heartfelt single “Take Two,” expressing gratitude and a commitment to happiness together.
Adding to their ongoing activities, BTS launched the first two episodes of their Disney+ docuseries, “BTS Monuments: Beyond the Star.” Additionally, their old single “Spring Day” recently achieved the No. 1 spot on the world digital song sales chart, marking a six-year milestone since its initial release.
Jenny Zha, CEO of Infinitize, a K-pop-focused marketing agency, believes that BTS has a unique opportunity to create meaningful music after their military service. Zha suggests that historically, artists who complete military service often experience personal growth and maturity during their time away from the spotlight, allowing for deeper introspection. She notes that BTS, as artists, have consistently let their music be influenced by their personal journeys and understanding of the world.
The break during their military service may have also benefited their individual careers. Each BTS member’s success with solo projects allowed U.S. pop fans to discover new facets of their musical styles. For example, Jimin explored sophisticated synthpop, Jungkook showcased energetic neo-disco acrobatics, V delved into misty R&B, and Suga demonstrated fierce rapping. Zha highlights that breaks for solo projects, a strategy seen with other groups like KISS and OutKast, can lead to successful reunions later on.