Since 1957, Korean men between the ages of 18-28 have to perform in the army compulsory military service. While women are not required to do this, they have the choice to voluntarily enlist for military service. An 18-year-old man in Korea is liable for military duty. He is not yet required to serve but he will be enlisted for "first citizen service". A physical exam to determine if he is fit for military service is conducted in Korean men with ages 19-20.    

BTS is composed of 7 members but 2 of their members named Jin and Suga, have inevitable mandatory military service. This may be the reason they cannot join the next year's world tour. Military Manpower Administration states that men in Korea with ages 25 above must be permitted for overseas travel.  Up to 5 leaves over the 2 years with 1 leave within a six month period are granted for those with ages between 25 to 27 years old. Fans are not happy about this news. 

It will be difficult for Jin and Suga to meet their global schedule starting next year. Jin will turn 28 next year and will have to enlist in the military.  It will also be difficult for Suga to join the BTS global schedule due to the planned global award ceremonies, world tour schedules, and duration of stay.

There are also exemptions for this rule. In the year 1973, Dictator Park Chung-hee has announced exemptions for athletes in order to win more medals for the country. Violinists, pianists, and ballet performers can also be granted exemptions but this exemption is not applicable for K-pop stars, actors, and directors. 

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism paid a visit to the Military Manpower Administration last month to propose a military service exemption for BTS and other K-pop idols, but the Military Manpower Administration did not respond.

South Korea is one of the countries with the longest military service period. Some may think that the Military Manpower Association is pressured about making changes in the law because the military laws have only been revised since last year. 

Meanwhile, BTS had a successful Europe tour. BTS scheduled for official global fan meeting "BTS 5th Magic Shop" in Busan is on June 15-16 and this will be held in Seoul on June 22-23.  Fans are still looking forward to enjoying watching the BTS group with complete members.