Jung Kook Pens Open Letter to ARMY Announcing Military Enlistment: ‘I’ll Miss You Deeply’

Jung Kook is preparing to enlist in the South Korean military, and took to Weverse on Wednesday (Nov. 22) to send a sweet message to the ARMY.

“In December, I will start a new journey I’m leaving you for a while to serve in the military,” he wrote . “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. Every moment I’ve spent with you has been the brightest time of my life. ARMY’s laughter, support, and love led me to this point. Thank you so much for supporting my dream and walking with me silently.”

He continued, “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. I promise that I’ll be back on stage with a more mature side where I always am I hope ARMY’s lives will always be full of laughter and happiness. I hope you fill in ARMY’s daily life healthily and beautifully. I’ll miss you deeply while waiting for the day we meet again and talk about something new. Don’t get sick and stay healthy. I love you.”

The K-pop supergroup’s label, Big Hit, announced earlier in the day that the final four singers awaiting the start of their enlistment — RM, Jimin, V and Jung Kook — have begun the process. “We would like to inform our fans that RM, Jimin, V and Jung Kook have initiated the military enlistment process,” read the statement. “The artists are preparing to fulfill their military service duties. We will inform you of further updates in due course.”

South Korean requires an 18-month military service stint for all able-bodied men by the time they turn 28. BTS announced a pause in their group work in October 2022 to allow all the singers to enlist. BTS is expected to reconvene in 2025 when all have completed their duty to country.

This article was first published by Billboard U.S.