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Writer's pictureManar Aly

BTS’ V: A Month-by-Month Journey Through His Military Service

Since beginning his mandatory military service on December 11, 2023, BTS' V, also known as Kim Taehyung, has made impressive strides both in his military duties and as a public figure.



In this article we will give a detailed month-by-month look at his journey over the past several months, showcasing his remarkable dedication and achievements!



December 2023: The Beginning of a New Chapter


V's military journey commenced on December 11, 2023, when he enlisted and began his basic training at the Nonsan Training Center. With a resolute spirit, he embraced his new role, preparing for the rigorous demands of military life. The buzz around his enlistment was palpable, as fans and media eagerly followed his transition from K-pop star to soldier.





January 2024: Graduation and Advancement


On January 16, 2024, V graduated from basic military training alongside fellow BTS member RM, earning the prestigious 'elite' soldier rank. This milestone was a testament to his exceptional performance and adaptability. Just two days later, on January 18, V was seen heading to Jonghaenggyo Bridge, dressed in full military uniform and carrying his gear, ready to embark on more specialized training.








February 2024: New Assignments


In February, V's journey took him to the 2nd Corps, also known as the Ssangyong Unit, stationed in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province. Here, he began serving in a special duty unit of the military police, directly under high-level command. This assignment marked a new phase in his service, focusing on more intensive responsibilities and training.




August 2024: Ulchi Freedom Shield Drills


One of the most significant events in V’s recent military career was his participation in the 2024 Ulchi Freedom Shield drills. Conducted from August 19, 2024, these joint exercises with U.S. and South Korean military forces were aimed at enhancing readiness and response capabilities in the face of potential threats. The 11-day drills, which involved around 19,000 South Korean troops, saw V actively engaged in various tactical exercises.





A video from the drills, uploaded on August 30, 2024, quickly garnered attention on social media. Fans spotted V in the footage, where he was seen posing with his comrades in his Special Duty Team (SDT) uniform. This appearance highlighted his seamless integration into military life and drew admiration from both military personnel and his fanbase.





Recent Developments: Continued Excellence


In a recent update from September 8, 2024, V engaged with fans via Weverse, marking a special occasion. His post came as ARMYs celebrated the first anniversary of his solo album Layover, which was released on September 8, 2023. Despite his ongoing military duties, V made an effort to connect with his fans, sharing an endearing story about encountering a fan-made photo outside his military base. He humorously mentioned how the sight of the photo made him blush during his run.





V's charming interaction extended to addressing his well-being, as he playfully noted the challenges of his service while expressing gratitude for the support from his fans. He assured them that their encouragement was a source of motivation, promising to reconnect with them soon.


While V was updating his fans, ARMYs worldwide commemorated Layover's anniversary with enthusiasm.


Celebrations ranged from online hashtags and fan art to themed parties and baked goods. Fans took the opportunity to reminisce about the album’s standout tracks, including "Slow Dancing," "Rainy Days," "Blue," "Love Me Again," "For Us," and the piano version of "Slow Dancing," all of which were accompanied by music videos that enriched V’s artistic narrative.


Additionally, V surprised his followers with a mirror selfie on Weverse and joined a KakaoTalk chat group. He humorously noted that the group's password was simpler compared to others. He also shared a photo of his beloved pet dog, Yeontan, and expressed his support for BTS RM’s recent song collaboration, "Neva Play."





From his initial enlistment to his current high-profile military engagements, V’s journey through his mandatory service has been nothing short of remarkable. Each month has brought new challenges and accomplishments, showcasing his unwavering commitment and excellence. Fans and observers alike have been inspired by his ability to balance his duties with the admiration of his global fanbase, proving that dedication knows no bounds. As he continues his service, the world watches with pride and anticipation for the next chapter in his extraordinary story.





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