After two and a half years apart, BTS is finally back—nearly whole. As of June 11, six of the group’s seven members, Jin, J-Hope, RM, V, Jungkook, and Jimin, have completed their mandatory military service. With SUGA set to be discharged on June 21, BTS is on the cusp of its full reunion for the first time since late 2022.
The emotional weight of their return isn’t lost on ARMYs. Once dreading a BTS-less era, fans are now watching a new chapter unfold. V shared after his discharge, “I want to run to ARMYs as soon as possible. If you wait just a little longer, we’ll come back with an amazing performance.” RM echoed that spirit on BTS’s 13th debut anniversary, saying, “I’m ready to try again… I want to venture out like Huckleberry Finn once more.”
The Energy Shift
During BTS’s absence, acts like BLACKPINK, SEVENTEEN, and Stray Kids held the spotlight. Yet the industry felt quieter, less electric. The moment BTS’s return became official, the K-pop landscape changed—HYBE’s stock prices soared, and anticipation reignited across the globe.
At J-Hope’s solo concert finale, HOPE ON THE STREET FINAL (June 13–14), fans got a taste of the reunion. Jin and Jungkook took the stage with J-Hope—delivering a surprise performance of Jamais Vu, unseen live since 2020. The other members—RM, SUGA, Jimin, and V—watched proudly from the audience.
This emotional gathering coincided with BTS FESTA 2025, held at KINTEX, Gyeonggi Province. With over 60,000 attendees and more than 20 interactive exhibitions, the event honored BTS’s 12th debut anniversary on an unprecedented scale.
Tour or Album First?
With the full lineup soon ready, speculation is mounting: Will a tour come before a new album? BTS’s last group concert was in Busan (October 2022). A world tour could happen first, using solo hits and fan favorites, while a new full-length album—possibly their first since 2022’s Proof—is prepared.
Optimists hope for new music by late 2025 or early 2026. Whatever the timing, fans expect their recent life experiences to breathe new emotion and maturity into BTS’s sound.
One question looms large: Will BTS finally win a Grammy? They’ve earned nearly every major award globally—but the Grammy remains just out of reach. With renewed energy, greater experience, and the full force of their fandom behind them, BTS’s return could be the moment that tips the scale.
As the seven reunite, the world watches—ready to see how BTS, armed with reflection, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose, will redefine their legacy.