K-pop stars BTS to do military service
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The reading
Members of one of the world's most popular pop bands will soon be in the army. The South Korean boy band BTS will soon be taking a break from music. The seven band members will be joining the military to do two years of national service. South Korea is one of the few countries in the world to require men to do military service. All able-bodied men aged between 18 and 28 must serve about two years in the military. This is because technically, South Korea is still at war with North Korea. The two nations never signed a peace treaty after the Korean War ended in 1953. The agency that looks after BTS said the band members want to do their duty. It said: "It's the perfect time and the members of BTS are honoured to serve."
There was a lot of talk in Korea about BTS not doing military service. Many people feel that the band are too important to be taking a break to join the army. Many Koreans view them as national treasures. In 2020, Korea's government said the band could delay their military service until the age of 30. The oldest member, Jin, is currently 29 years old. BTS have brought a lot of worldwide attention to their country. They have also received a lot of praise for speaking out about mental health issues. South Korea's defence minister said it could be possible for the band to perform together while in the army. He said: "There could be a way to give them a chance to practice and perform together."
Sources:
- https://www.theguardian.com/music/2022/oct/17/bts-k-pop-members-military-service-south-korea
- https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-63282589
- https://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20221017000727
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