With BTS's full group return on the horizon, all eyes are on the golden maknae, Jung Kook, whose return will surely make ARMY's hearts race once again. Having enlisted on December 12, 2024, he is currently serving in the military and is scheduled to be discharged on June 11, 2025. The day he returns to his fans is now just around the corner. Despite his brief hiatus, Jung Kook firmly established his global presence as a solo artist even before his enlistment, and his return will mark a significant moment, not just as a member coming back, but as a new chapter for BTS. 

Jung Kook's military discharge signifies the end of a long wait for fans and heralds a new beginning. Upon his discharge on June 11, 2025, he is expected to resume active promotions immediately. HYBE has consistently coordinated the members' individual activities and BTS's overall album release plans even during their military service, making it highly likely that Jung Kook will surprise ARMY with a special gift as soon as he is discharged. With his solo album "GOLDEN" already achieving global success and proving his musical prowess, anticipation for his next move is higher than ever. 

A Golden Era: Jung Kook's Pre-Enlistment Activities 

Jung Kook's activities before his enlistment were truly "golden." His first solo album, "GOLDEN," released on November 3, 2023, reached No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart, setting a new record for a Korean solo artist. The title track, "Standing Next to You," also charted high on the Billboard Hot 100, proving Jung Kook's status as a bona fide global pop star. The pre-release tracks, "Seven (feat. Latto)" and "3D (feat. Jack Harlow)," both hit No. 1 on the Spotify Global Chart and the Billboard Hot 100, respectively, showcasing his explosive impact. Notably, "Seven" set a new Guinness World Record for reaching 1 billion streams on Spotify in the shortest time. 

Through his solo activities, Jung Kook displayed significant growth as an artist. He participated in various interviews during the "GOLDEN" album promotions, expressing his musical vision and affection for his fans. He connected with fans through Weverse Live, revealing behind-the-scenes stories of his album preparations and directly answering their questions, fostering a strong bond. Furthermore, he delivered flawless live performances on various domestic and international music shows and awards ceremonies, once again solidifying his reputation as a "stage master." 

HYBE fully supported Jung Kook's solo activities, maximizing his global influence. After the album's release, various promotional contents were shared on the official YouTube channel 'BANGTANTV' and Weverse, receiving enthusiastic responses from fans. In particular, the performance video and live clip for "Standing Next to You" garnered explosive views, reaffirming his unique performance abilities. Before his enlistment, Jung Kook reassured fans with messages like, "ARMY, I'm doing well and staying healthy. I'll be back soon!" on the Weverse platform, and fans reciprocated with unwavering love in the comments on his social media accounts. 

Looking Ahead: The Full Group and Beyond 

Jung Kook's military service may have been a time for him to catch his breath, but it will undoubtedly have been a valuable experience that brought deeper internal growth as an artist. In an interview for the "GOLDEN" album before his enlistment, he stated, "I want to return as a more mature person through my military service." His discharge signifies not just a return, but the beginning of a new musical journey for a more steadfast and profound artist. 

One of the most anticipated aspects of Jung Kook's return is the full group activities of BTS. With members being discharged sequentially from the second half of 2025, BTS is preparing to stand before their fans once again as a complete septet. Jung Kook has repeatedly expressed his excitement for performing with his members, stating that he "looks forward to full group activities the most." His return will inject new energy into BTS's music, promising richer and more diverse performances. 

ARMY is showing immense interest and anticipation for the new music and activities Jung Kook will present after his discharge. Jung Kook's return will be a significant milestone marking the beginning of BTS's full group activities, and the world's attention will be focused on his next "golden" footsteps. The wait is over, and we eagerly await the golden voyage that will begin anew with Jung Kook.

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