Global sensation BTS this week embarked on a new chapter with all members finally fulfilling their military service obligations.
The transition has left a poignant mark on their dedicated fan base, known as ARMY. The hiatus followed by the enlistment of members prompted a wave of reflections among fans, cherishing past memories and finding comfort in the abundance of content the group had previously shared.
I spoke to three local fans – Nurul, Nisa and Nina – who shared their thoughts and feelings on the boys’ enlistment as well as some comforting words of advice to help through this tough time.
HOW DID THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE HIATUS IMPACT YOUR FEELINGS AS A FAN?
Nurul: I felt mostly acceptance and happiness that they’re taking a break. They were working so hard to give fans so much music and content. I was bit sad because I know I’ll miss them but they deserved to take a break on their terms.
Nisa: A little depressed at first, but I knew it was bound to happen eventually. Knowing that really helped in easing the disappointment.
Nina: I felt sad initially, but I understood their need for a break. It was also a relief knowing they could focus on personal projects during the hiatus.
WHAT DO YOU MISS ABOUT BTS NOW THAT THEY’VE ENLISTED?
Nurul: I miss seeing all seven of them together on stage. I miss seeing all seven of them perform. I miss seeing them interact with each other. Right now, I’m just grateful for all the content they’re putting out from albums to collaborations and official events.
Nisa: I miss seeing them altogether with their shenanigans on variety shows or backstage videos. I especially miss Jin with his sense of humour, dad jokes and savage replies or posts on Weverse.
Nina: I miss their energy and jokes whenever they’re together.
HOW DO YOU MAINTAIN YOUR SUPPORT FOR BTS DURING THE HIATUS?
Nurul: I usually create playlists of their songs and listen to them on Spotify and Youtube. I also watch Bangtan Bombs, old music videos, performance videos, lives, variety shows and read their letters. I’m also in an active BTS ARMY Discord server where we get updates to BTS content, do fun streaming activities, have movie nights or trivia games.
Watching past content does help in making the wait easier. It reminds me why I love BTS in the first place.
Nisa: When I miss them badly, I listen to their songs, and I find that it does the trick quite nicely. I also stream their music videos when I can.
The boys worked hard in making a lot of content for us fans ahead of time during the years, months and days that led up to their enlistment, so it feels like they never went away.
Nina: I interact with a lot of Instagram accounts, stream their music and talk to friends about them. Also since I’m quite new to the fandom, I can use this time to catch up on the earlier content they released.
ARE THERE PARTICULAR BTS SONGS OR ALBUMS THAT HOLD SPECIAL SIGNIFICANCE FOR YOU DURING THIS WAITING PERIOD?
Nurul: Proof Album specifically Yet To Come because it’s a promise from BTS to ARMY that our best moments with each other have yet to come.
Nisa: Love Yourself: Tear was the album that introduced me to them while Boy with Luv was the one song that converted me to a full-fledged fan, so both do hold massive sentimental value to me, and I do listen to them often.
Nina: At this time, it has to be Life Goes On because it was meant to offer healing and comfort, which I think fits the situation that BTS and their fans are in right now.
WHAT BTS CONTENT WOULD YOU RECOMMEND FOR FANS MISSING BTS?
Nurul: I recommend BTS In The Soop. Watching them enjoy themselves, doing what they want and enjoying their time together even if for a short period is a healing experience for an ARMY.
Nisa: I would recommend Run BTS since their larger-than-life attitudes will be sure to keep your mind distracted from missing them.
Nina: Bon Voyage is one of my favourite shows from them because it shows how chaotic they can be when they’re in a foreign country. I especially love Season 4 because it’s the most relaxing to watch.
ANY MESSAGES FOR FELLOW FANS DURING THIS PERIOD?
Nurul: I know it’s hard sometimes but you’re not alone struggling with this. Some days are easier, some days aren’t. You can always go back to old content, their music, their lives, their letters. Going through their old content will make the wait easier. Interact with other ARMYs, there’s so many of us and most of us would gladly help other ARMYs to go through BTS hiatus and make the wait more enjoyable.
Nisa: Take comfort that the military enlistment will be one thing off their checklists and won’t be looming over them once it’s done. It is reassuring to know that the sooner they enlist, the sooner we will get to see them as seven again. I’m sure that BTS misses us just as much as we miss them. Have patience and the day they will be together again will come soon. We can do this! We got this!
Nina: 2025 isn’t long to go! I know it’s hard to stay positive all the time, but you’re not alone in this. The boys didn’t leave us empty handed – there’s still content lined up for us while they’re away, so we have a lot to look forward to. Take it one day at a time and before you know it, they’ll all be back together!
As BTS enters the phase of enlistment, ARMY stands by their side, navigating the absence of their beloved group through a multitude of activities. The fan community cherishes past memories, finds solace in their diverse content, and eagerly anticipates the eventual reunion when BTS returns as seven. – Lina Gapar
Most recommended BTS shows
- IN THE SOOP (2 SEASONS)
This reality show offers a serene and intimate look into the daily lives of BTS members as they spend quality time together in a peaceful, natural setting. Away from their usual hectic schedules, the show captures their candid moments, hobbies, and interactions, showcasing their individual personalities in a relaxed environment.
2. RUN BTS (3 SEASONS)
A variety show that brings an explosion of fun and laughter, Run BTS is filled with entertaining challenges, games and missions. The members engage in a wide array of activities that highlight their teamwork, competitiveness and humourous dynamics. Each episode presents a unique theme, offering fans an enjoyable and often comical experience.
3. BON VOYAGE (4 SEASONS)
This travel reality series follows the group as they embark on exciting adventures in various international destinations. Through their travels, fans get to witness the group’s cultural exploration, bonding moments and spontaneous escapades. The show captures their experiences navigating different countries, creating memories and facing challenges together.
