BTS Military Update: Which Member is Getting Special Treatment?

BTS, the global sensation and South Korea’s most famous musical export, continues to dominate headlines even while the members fulfill their mandatory military service. As of 2025, several members are serving or have enlisted, and naturally, this has sparked global attention, debate, and speculation—especially surrounding whether any of the members are receiving “special treatment.”

Military service in South Korea is a serious national obligation for all able-bodied men. For years, fans have been curious whether BTS, given their worldwide fame and contributions to South Korean culture and the economy, would receive exemptions or special privileges. Although the answer has largely been "no," recent reports and online chatter have revived suspicions about whether one or more BTS members are experiencing a smoother ride than others.

Let’s dive into what’s really going on, what the military service entails for BTS, and which member, if any, is reportedly getting special treatment.

The Status of Each Member’s Enlistment

South Korean law requires men aged 18–28 to serve in the military for around 18–21 months. In 2020, the government passed the so-called "BTS Law," allowing K-pop artists who have significantly elevated Korea's cultural status to delay enlistment until age 30. BTS members used this law, but eventually, all are required to serve.

Here’s a quick update on where each member currently stands:

• Jin: The eldest, Jin, enlisted in December 2022. He was assigned to an active-duty role and reportedly completed basic training with honors.
• J-Hope: He enlisted in April 2023 and is currently serving in the army.
• SUGA: Due to shoulder surgery and ongoing health issues, SUGA was assigned to social service rather than active duty. This sparked debate about whether this assignment is a form of “special treatment.”
• RM and V: Both enlisted in December 2023, entering the standard training camps.
• Jimin and Jungkook: The youngest members followed shortly after in early 2024.

So, which one of them is allegedly receiving favorable treatment?

SUGA's Non-Combat Role Sparks Debate

The focus of the “special treatment” rumors has centered around SUGA. Due to medical conditions, he was deemed unfit for active duty and is serving as a public service worker instead. This role is usually given to those with health conditions, allowing them to fulfill their duties in office or community roles instead of the more rigorous physical demands of combat training.

Critics have pointed out that this could be seen as preferential treatment, given BTS's high profile and connections. However, it's important to note that SUGA underwent surgery in 2020 for a torn shoulder labrum—an injury he publicly struggled with for years. His medical records would have been reviewed by the Military Manpower Administration, the same body responsible for evaluating all conscripts.

This has led many fans and military officials to defend his assignment as fair and medically justified.

Inside the Training Camps: Are They Being Treated Differently?

Another topic stirring debate is how BTS members are being treated inside the military. Basic training in South Korea is known to be tough, with strict schedules, physical drills, and very limited contact with the outside world. Fans who received handwritten letters or updates from Jin and J-Hope noted they seemed to be going through the same experiences as other enlistees.

However, due to their global fame, military officials are clearly taking precautions to protect them from unwanted attention—both from inside and outside the base. This includes:

• Additional privacy and security protocols to ensure their safety
• Possibly separate sleeping or training arrangements to avoid disruptions
• Assignments to bases with tighter media control

These accommodations, while necessary for safety, have led some to argue that they amount to special treatment. However, others argue it's merely practical, considering their high-profile status.

Are They Still Earning Money and Posting Online?

Another layer of the “special treatment” conversation involves BTS's digital presence and earnings. Despite being in the military, content featuring the members continues to roll out on platforms like YouTube and Weverse.

Is this BTS breaking the rules? Not quite.

The group's management company, HYBE, has confirmed that much of this content was pre-recorded before enlistment and is being released over time to keep fans engaged. Additionally, BTS continues to earn royalties and profits from previous work—this isn’t unique to them and applies to all musicians.

However, some critics believe the ability to maintain brand activity during service is an unfair advantage compared to other conscripts, who fade from public view during their enlistment. But from a legal standpoint, BTS hasn’t violated any military rules.

Military Service and Celebrity Privilege in Korea

The issue of celebrity privilege during military service is not new in South Korea. Over the years, several actors and K-pop idols have been caught receiving favorable treatment—whether it’s frequent hospital visits, light duties, or extended breaks.

In recent years, however, the military has cracked down on such behavior, particularly due to public backlash. Given the intense scrutiny BTS is under, the likelihood of them receiving unwarranted special treatment is slim. If anything, their every move is being monitored closely by the public and military alike.

SUGA’s case is different only because it involves medical documentation, not favoritism. His public service assignment aligns with military standards and precedents for individuals with similar conditions.

What Do Fans Think?

The BTS ARMY has been largely supportive of the members during their military service. Most fans recognize the personal and professional sacrifice this represents. Many have defended SUGA’s assignment, pointing to his long-documented injury and the fact that military policies permit this kind of alternative service.

That said, there's also a segment of the public who view any deviation from active duty as privilege, regardless of medical justification. In South Korea’s highly egalitarian military system, any appearance of unfairness can spark controversy quickly.

Conclusion: Are They Really Getting Special Treatment?

So, is any BTS member actually getting special treatment during military service?

The short answer: Not really. While accommodations are made to ensure their safety and minimize disruption, these are rooted in practicality rather than favoritism. The only member not doing active duty—SUGA—is doing so due to a documented medical issue, not celebrity status.

Ultimately, BTS appears to be following the rules, doing their time, and respecting the system—just like any other South Korean male citizen. And for that, they continue to earn respect both domestically and abroad.

Disclaimer:

This article is based on publicly available information and speculation. Any assumptions made regarding military assignments or treatment are not confirmed by official sources. Readers are encouraged to verify facts with authoritative announcements and treat all rumors with skepticism.