BTS member Suga has officially concluded his mandatory military service in South Korea, becoming the final member of the globally renowned K-pop group to do so. His discharge marks a significant step toward the group’s long-anticipated reunion after a hiatus that began in 2022.

On Saturday, Suga completed his alternative service as a public service worker, a role he undertook instead of active duty due to a previous shoulder injury. According to BTS’ agency, Big Hit Music, Suga used his remaining leave days and was effectively discharged on June 18, with his official service end date recorded as June 21.

Unlike the celebratory scenes seen during other BTS members’ military exits, Suga’s return was intentionally low-key. Big Hit Music confirmed no public event was held, citing concerns about crowd safety and potential overcrowding.

The quiet nature of his discharge hasn’t dampened fan excitement. As the final member to finish national service, Suga’s return sets the stage for BTS to move closer to reuniting as a complete group. Since their debut in 2013, BTS has evolved into one of the most influential acts in global pop culture.

Suga addressed fans through the fan platform Weverse shortly after his discharge, expressing regret over a past incident. “I apologize for the worry and disappointment caused last year,” he wrote, referencing a 2023 court case in which he was fined approximately 15 million won (about $11,500 USD) for a drunk-driving incident involving an electric scooter. He also extended his apologies to his fellow BTS members.

All seven BTS members—Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—paused their careers to fulfill South Korea’s mandatory military obligations, which can last up to 18 months. Jin was the first to enlist in December 2022.

With military duties now behind them, speculation is building around BTS’ comeback plans. According to a report by NH Securities, the group is expected to embark on their largest world tour yet in 2026. BTS’ management company, HYBE, remains closely watched by financial analysts and investors due to the band’s massive impact on the entertainment industry.

As fans around the globe eagerly await what comes next, Suga’s return is a pivotal milestone in BTS’ journey back to the spotlight.