BTS’ Suga is set to enlist for mandatory military service this week, reps said Sunday.
“We have further information regarding Suga’s military service,” BIGHIT Music posted on the South Korean app Weverse. “Suga will be beginning his required service on September 22.”
South Korea requires men between the ages of 18 and 35 to enlist for a period of 18 to 21 months if they are physically fit.
Reps first noted last year that BTS would be required to enlist in the coming months and that all seven members of the group wouldn’t be able to perform together again until 2025.
“There will not be any official events taking place on the day he starts his service or on the day he enters the training camp,” BIGHIT continued. “We kindly ask fans to refrain from visiting Suga at his workplace during the period of his service. Please convey your warm regards and encouragement in your hearts only.”
The reps also gave fans a warning about unauthorized tours or products.
“Please be mindful to avoid getting adversely affected by unauthorized tours or package products that illegally use the artist’s intellectual property,” BIGHIT added. “Our company will take appropriate measures against attempts at any commercial activity that make unauthorized use of artist IP.”
BIGHIT added: “We ask for your continued love and support for SUGA until he completes his service and returns. Our company will also strive to provide all the support he needs during this time.”
For his part, Suga did a live stream on Weverse that was translated by a follower. He told fans that they shouldn’t be sad about his enlistment and that he’d be done in 2025.
Suga released his solo album, D-DAY, under the name Agust D in April. He recently wrapped his Agust D-DAY tour.
In addition to Suga, BTS members Jin and J-Hope also have enlisted.
