BTS' RM says 'Time flows differently outside,' reflects on band's 11th anniversary
A full group photo featuring all seven members of BTS, posted by RM, Saturday on his Instagram account / Captured from Instagram
BTS' leader reflects on group's 11th anniversary, Jin's military discharge
RM, the leader of K-pop sensation BTS, shared his reflections on the group's 11th debut anniversary and Jin's recent discharge from military service, which resonated with fans worldwide.
In a post on Weverse, an online fan community, Saturday, the BTS frontman, currently on a break from his military duties, began with "It was our 11th anniversary not long ago, but I'm afraid to say I was so busy that I couldn't even leave a short message."
"Jin was finally discharged three days ago," he wrote. "I brought and played my saxophone all for my amusement, but in reality, I had mixed emotions."
BTS' eldest member, Jin, completed his 18-month military service and was discharged last Wednesday. While safety concerns prevented an official event, RM, J-Hope, V, Jimin and Jungkook — all BTS members except for Suga, who is fulfilling his service as a social worker — visited the site to show their support and brotherhood.
In particular, RM celebrated the occasion with a playful touch by playing the group’s hit song "DYNAMITE" on his saxophone.
RM also shared his reflections on his military life in Saturday's post, saying, "After being out after a while, I realize that time indeed flows differently outside. Even gravity feels different."
"Everyone is getting along fine without me. Life goes on. Although I feel somewhat empty, it was great to gather with all the members after such a long time and share heartfelt conversations along with a drink ... I really missed these people. I used to call them out of the blue to check on them," he recalled.
"Jin always used to say he missed the members a lot and that we would do the same. Now that we've all been scattered, and living in Gangwon Province, I finally deeply understand. Meeting them face to face made me realize what hasn't changed, where I belong, and who I am. It was a meaningful time for all of us."
The singer also expressed his gratitude to his enduring fans, ARMYs, and reassured them of BTS' promising future.
"Just knowing that so many people still wait for us and love us is enough," he wrote. "I'll spend each day thinking of the members and all of you. I love you. Thank you. Let's look forward to the next early summer," he concluded.
RM is scheduled to be discharged in June next year. After Jin, the first BTS member to complete his service, J-Hope will follow in October and by next June, all members will have fulfilled their military obligations. BTS is planning to resume group activities once all members are available again.
Meanwhile, Jin met with fans as part of the 2024 FESTA celebrating BTS' 11th debut anniversary, marking his first official activity post-discharge, Thursday.
Jin is expected to release his first solo album later this year.