BTS is currently taking something of a hiatus as several of its members fulfill their mandatory military enlistment in their home country. Now, another integral singer of the group has taken this step, effectively pausing his solo career, if only temporarily.
Suga, one of the seven incredibly talented singers in BTS, has officially commenced his service in the South Korean military. The announcement was made by the band’s record label, Big Hit Music, through an online note that stated:
“We would like to inform our fans that Suga has initiated the military enlistment process by applying for the termination of his enlistment postponement. We will inform you of further updates in due course. We ask you for your continued love and support for Suga until he completes his military service and safely returns. Our company will spare no effort in providing support for our artist.”
In South Korea, all men are required to complete an 18-month term of military service before the age of 28. However, the members of BTS were granted a government-approved extension that allowed them to defer their enlistment until the age of 30. As the announcement clarifies, Suga has chosen not to seek any further extension due to his current age of 30.
Although Suga’s military enlistment was anticipated and is set to be relatively short, it does mean that his musical endeavors will be temporarily halted. One of the most prolific members of BTS, Suga has been actively releasing music as a solo artist alongside his work with the group for years.
His solo musical journey reached a new peak earlier this year with the launch of his debut solo album D-Day, which has been preceded by two mixtapes. Under his Agust D alter ego, the album soared to No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking a significant milestone in his career, as it was his first top 10 on his own. Additionally, the album produced his highest-charting solo hit on the Hot 100, “Haegeum.”
Suga is now the third member of BTS to heed the call of mandatory military service in South Korea. Jin and J-Hope have already embarked on their respective military journeys, and in time, the remaining four members of the internationally acclaimed pop band will follow suit.
Despite their hiatus, BTS managed to surprise their dedicated fanbase by releasing two new singles in 2023, “The Planet” and “Take Two.” In the coming year and a half, Suga could still release music, as he may have written and recorded art to drop during this period, though only time will tell if that’s the case.
Read the full article here