V applies for 35th Battalion Special Forces

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(ANN/KOREA HERALD) — After Jimin and Jungkook’s enlistment on Tuesday, all seven members of the K-pop supergroup BTS will undergo South Korea’s mandatory military service.

V, nearing 28, has set his sights on joining the 35th Special Mission Battalion, responsible for counterterrorism and defending Seoul.

V addressed fan concerns on Weverse, stating, “I’m applying (to the 35th Battalion) because I wanted to push myself. I can be careful when I need to. I’ll make sure that I won’t get hurt.”

The 35th Battalion is renowned for its tough training, being one of the five military units designated as counter-terrorism forces by South Korean law.

V (right) and RM (left) pose with their BTS bandmate Jin before enlisting in the Army on Monday at the Korea Army Training Center in Nonsan, South Chungcheong Province. PHOTO: Jin BTS/Instagram

Members must possess top-notch physical capabilities, marksmanship, hand-to-hand combat skills, and proficiency in tasks such as rappelling from buildings or helicopters.

V’s interest aligns with the achievements of Jin and J-Hope, who both qualified for the special warrior rank during their military service.

While celebrities joining special forces are uncommon, V’s application follows in the footsteps of singer Oh Jong-hyuk, who served in the ROK Marine Corps Reconnaissance Unit.

The 35th Battalion gained nationwide attention through its portrayal in the hit film “12.12: The Day,” depicting the military coup of December 12, 1979.

V’s potential inclusion in the special forces unit hinges on the Army’s selection process, which involves rigorous physical tests and interviews. Fans await confirmation of V’s aspiration to join the 35th Special Mission Battalion.