BTS' Jungkook to Start Military Service in December as RM, Jimin and V Also Begin Enlistment Process

"As I share this news, my heart feels heavy on one hand, but on the other hand, my heart warms," wrote Jungkook in a statement to fans on WeVerse

Jungkook of BTS is starting South Korea's mandatory military service next month, while his fellow members RM, Jimin and V are preparing to follow suit.

On Wednesday, Jungkook announced he'll begin his time in the military in December via a statement on WeVerse, and BTS' record label BigHit Music revealed the "Seven" singer as well as RM, Jimin and V have each begun the process of enlistment.

"In December, I will start a new journey. I'm leaving you for a short while to serve in the military," wrote Jungkook, 26, on WeVerse in a post translated from Korean to English. "As I share this news, I feel heavy on one hand, and on the other hand, I'm reminded of precious memories with ARMY, so my heart warms up."

Related: Jungkook Drops Solo Debut Album 'Golden' and Groovy 'Standing Next to You' Music Video — Watch

He expressed admiration for BTS' fans, saying their "laughter, support and love" have carried him to this point in life. "Thank you so much for supporting my dream and walking with me silently," wrote the performer.

Jungkook — whose debut album Golden dropped earlier this month — then offered some advice to the group's ARMY. "I'm careful to tell you to wait for me while I'm in the military. A year and a half is a long time, so I can't say anything selfish," he continued. "When I return, I promise to stand on stage in the same spot I always was and with a more grown appearance."

He concluded the statement with well wishes for fans, adding, "I will miss you deeply in my heart as I wait for the day when we can meet again and share new stories. Please don't get sick, and stay healthy. I love you."

Meanwhile, BigHit Music issued a statement via its Instagram Story about the four group members' military service.

"We would like to inform our fans that RM, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook have initiated the military enlistment process," the statement read. "The artists are preparing to fulfill their military service duties. We will inform you of further updates in due course."

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Related: BTS' RM Says 'Solo' Work Is Part of 'Journey' to Band Reuniting in 2025

BigHit Music continued, "We ask you for your continued love and support for RM, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook until they complete their military service and safely return. Our company will spare no effort in providing support for our artists."

Member Suga started his mandatory military service in September, the record label revealed at the time. He became the third BTS member to participate, following Jin and J-Hope. All seven performers are required to enlist, with the band expected to reunite in 2025.

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