J-Hope of BTS completes 18 months of South Korea’s mandatory military service

J-hope, the main dancer of the group, emerged from the gates of his army base in South Korea’s central Wonju city, and hugged fellow band member Jin – who finished his service in June – before saluting waiting reporters and fans.

“During the past one year and six months, I realised that many soldiers in the military are making great efforts and sacrifices to protect the country,” he said, urging the public to support active duty military.

“Thank you so much for waiting for me, and I deeply appreciate the strong support and love you have shown,” he told fans, before getting into a vehicle.

Outside the base fans had hung up colourful banners to welcome the star back to civilian life saying: “The sun is finally shining upon ARMY” referring to the group’s official fandom, and: “My bank account! It’s ready to go straight to J-hope!”

Fans had put a life-size cut out of J-hope dancing outside the base, with a giant balloon congratulating him on his military discharge flying overhead.

Fans had been urged not to show up for safety reasons, but early Thursday there were around 50 admirers present – including international fans from China and Brazil – outside the base.