RM reflects on BTS members’ emotional strain during military service hiatus ahead of reunion

RM, leader of BTS, has spoken candidly about the emotional difficulties experienced by the group during their hiatus while completing mandatory military service. The band paused activities in 2022 as all seven members enlisted, leading to an extended break from their music careers and public performances. In a recent Weverse livestream, RM reflected on a private gathering held in 2024 at Jimin’s home, shortly after Jin had been discharged from military service. He described the meeting as emotionally intense, noting that all members were in what he called a “bad mental state” at the time, and that the discussion included moments of tears as they openly shared their feelings and concerns. RM explained that the conversation left a strong impression on him, motivating him to take greater responsibility in keeping the group united. He also expressed a desire to ensure that their return to music would be meaningful for fans who had waited patiently throughout the hiatus. The group’s experience during this period influenced their outlook on their comeback and creative direction, including their new material. Earlier in 2026, BTS reunited fully following the completion of their military service obligations and launched a major world tour spanning 34 regions and 79 shows, marking their largest tour to date. Their return included performances of new tracks from their album ‘ARIRANG’, debuted during a stadium show in Goyang, South Korea. The concert also featured new songs and saw RM perform part of the set seated due to an ankle injury sustained during rehearsals. The group’s comeback has been met with significant global attention, including a free concert in Seoul that was livestreamed internationally on Netflix and attracted a massive audience. RM’s comments highlight both the personal and collective challenges faced by BTS during their time apart, as well as their renewed commitment to their music and fans moving forward.