On June 10, 2025, BTS's visual member V (Kim Taehyung) completed his 18-month military service and was discharged. V's appearance as he greeted fans at a sports park in Chuncheon alongside RM looked more reliable and mature than ever. His military service in the Special Duty Team, a special unit, drew significant attention, and now all of it remains as a precious experience. 

The Courage to Choose Challenge 

V's military service was extraordinary from the beginning. Instead of regular military service, he volunteered for and was accepted into the Army Capital Defense Command's Special Duty Team (SDT). His determination, expressed during a Weverse Live before enlistment when he said, "Rappelling is scary, but I want to go because I want to face the challenge," became reality. At this special place that performs counter-terrorism missions, he faced new challenges and successfully completed them. 

V was assigned to the Army 2nd Corps Military Police Special Duty Team located in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, where he served as a special duty officer under the command headquarters' direct military police unit. He grew into a true soldier by handling strict training and missions different from regular units. 

Character That Shined Even During Military Service 

V showed his unchanging warm character even during his military service. An anecdote became known where Big Mama's Lee Ji-young mentioned a "handsome soldier" she met after a Chuncheon District Festa performance on social media, and that soldier turned out to be V. This story became a hot topic, showing how he maintained his courtesy even in uniform. 

Also, just as he shared his grief with fans when announcing the rainbow bridge crossing of his companion dog Tan, V's sincere heart during military service touched many people. In February 2025, he reassured fans with a post saying, "Sergeant Kim reporting for survival check! D-Day 107 days!" This post recorded the world's #1 Instagram 'likes' in 2025, once again proving his global influence. 

Changed Appearance, Unchanged Heart 

V's appearance after discharge was markedly different from before enlistment. His more solid physique from intensive training at the Special Duty Team and his more mature expression showed how meaningful the 18 months he spent were. Among fans, V's "bulked up" appearance became a hot topic. 

However, what remained unchanged was his heart toward fans. His voice shouting "We missed you, ARMY!" at the discharge site contained all the longing from 18 months. 

Preparation for a New Beginning 

V's discharge is not only about personal growth but also serves as a signal for BTS's complete group activities. The experience from the Special Duty Team is expected to breathe new energy into his music and performances. His strengthened mental fortitude and physical fitness will be great assets in future activities. 

The Final Step Toward the Complete Group 

V, who was discharged alongside RM, is now waiting for the return of the remaining members. Once Jimin and Jungkook's discharge and Suga's release from alternative service are completed, BTS can truly return as a complete group. This makes the new appearance of BTS, now joined by V with his special experience from the Special Duty Team, even more anticipated. 

V's discharge is not simply the end of military service. It's a new beginning as a more mature and stronger artist, and an important puzzle piece toward BTS's complete group activities. With V, who has successfully completed his special mission and returned, BTS is preparing to welcome another golden age.

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