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    Wednesday, June 18

    What did BTS do in the military? From Taehyung’s SDT post to Jungkook’s lead cook role – ranks, titles & more

    Justin M. LarsonBy No Comments5 Mins Read



    With the countdown to a BTS reunion is underway, BIGHIT MUSIC heightened excitement among fans, known as ARMY, by announcing on June 18 that the group’s final remaining member, SUGA, is set to be discharged from mandatory military service. BTS will officially reunite as OT7 once rapper Min Yoongi returns to civilian life on June 21, 2025.

    Since 2022, the BTS members enlisted one after another, but they did so within a similar time frame – effectively serving as a group. Now, all members have completed their duties by June 2025 – many through active duty, others via public roles – earning respect not only as global superstars but also as dedicated soldiers.

    Throughout their service, BTS fulfilled their responsibilities with dedication, offering occasional glimpses into military life – whether through Weverse posts, official army releases, or, even through their personal Instagram accounts. BTS stood out for the honours and distinctions they earned while serving which reflected not only their exceptional skill and discipline but also a deep sense of responsibility and resilience.

    Honours in the military: What they mean

    The South Korean military recognizes excellence through both rank and merit-based titles. While ranks like Sergeant are tied to the time served and overall conduct, honours such as Special Warrior, Elite Trainee, and Platoon Leader are awarded to soldiers who demonstrate outstanding ability in physical strength, marksmanship, discipline, and leadership.

    These titles are difficult to attain, as it requires rigorous training and evaluation. However, several BTS members achieved these distinctions which only shows that the 7 men gave it their all while serving their country and rose above expectations even in a highly disciplined environment.

    Military roles and titles held by BTS members

    RM (Kim Nam-joon): Military Band Leader and Chaplain Assistant

    The leader of BTS served in the Military Band and also took on the role of Chaplain Assistant providing musical performances and moral support at official events. His strong performance earned him the Elite Trainee title, swift promotions, and ultimately the position of Platoon Leader. No ARMY will ever forget him playing the saxophone for his members.

    Jin (Kim Seok-jin): Assistant Drill Instructor with Elite Warrior recognition

    The eldest members of BTS was the first to enlist and first to be discharged. But, unsurprisingly, he quickly stood out during basic training and graduated at the top of his class and was appointed Company Commander Trainee. He later went on to serve as an Assistant Drill Instructor in the 5th Infantry Division. In fact, his exceptional performance earned him an early promotion and the prestigious title of Special Warrior.

    SUGA (Min Yoon-gi): Public Service Worker due to shoulder surgery

    Because of a past shoulder injury due to an accident he had even before his debut, SUGA fulfilled his duties through South Korea’s alternative service system, serving in a non-combat role as a Public Service Worker. While he is not part of active-duty training or field operations due to his shoulder operation, his is still serving under the nation’s military program. The rapper is set to be discharged on June 21, 2025.

    j-hope (Jung Ho-seok): Assistant Drill Instructor and Special Warrior recipient

    The ace dancer of the group was the 2nd member to enlist and went on to serve as an Assistant Drill Instructor. His role was to guide new recruits with both rigor and dedication. Seeing his commitment, he was given the Special Warrior title. Later he even won the Strong Warrior Speech Contest, which highlighted his leadership and professionalism.

    Jimin (Park Ji-min): Artillery Squad Leader and Special Grade Soldier

    The idol who was the last to be enlisted into the buddy system with Jungkook excelled early on. He earned the Best Trainee award during basic training it self. Later, he was stationed at a specialized Artillery Fire Direction Center, where he rose through the ranks and was appointed as Squad Leader. His strong performance in marksmanship, endurance, and leadership got him the distinction of Special Grade Soldier.

    V (Kim Tae-hyung): Special Forces Officer under the Military Police’s Special Duty Team (SDT) unit

    The singer chose a very different route than other as part of the elite Special Duty Team (SDT) within the Military Police. This is an advanced unit which is tasked with high-risk missions like counter-terrorism and urban combat. Even after suffering a cracked rib during training, he made sure he earned himself several honours, including Special Warrior, Platoon Leader, and Exemplary Shooter. He later even rose to the rank of Sergeant.

    Jungkook (Jeon Jung-kook): Lead Cook in Army division

    The maknae of the group, the star served as Lead Cook – a role that required physical endurance and daily responsibility for preparing meals for his unit. His dedication and steady performance earned him an early promotion to the rank of Sergeant.

    For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here.





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