ARMYs (아미) rejoiced on 10th June (Tuesday) as BTS (방탄소년단) leader RM (랩몬스터) and member V (뷔) completed their 18-month military service. Their return marks a significant milestone in BTS’s long-anticipated comeback, sparking widespread excitement and heartfelt celebrations across the global fandom.
However, alongside the joy, concerns quickly emerged following reports of the hardships RM faced during his enlistment. Allegations of mistreatment have ignited outrage among fans. Many are now demanding accountability and stronger protections for public figures fulfilling their national duty.
It isn’t unusual for Korean men fulfilling their mandatory military service to share negative experiences. Over the years, public perception of conscription has grown increasingly controversial, from the lingering physical and mental toll it takes to the belief that it’s a waste of time for young men in critical stages of their careers.
Kim Nam-joon (김남준), also known as RM, began his military service on 11th December 2023. After completing five weeks of basic training at the Korea Army Training Centre in Nonsan, South Chungcheong Province, he was assigned to the 15th Infantry Division’s military band unit. Upon his return, fans gathered in support, celebrating his safe discharge and the successful end of his nearly two-year commitment.
The rapper held a solo live stream to openly discuss his military experience and the challenges he faced with HYBE during that time. He revealed that after releasing his solo album “RPWP”, he began suffering from insomnia. Being surrounded by what felt like 20 other soldiers made it nearly impossible for him to get proper rest. “I mean, there were a lot of things happening outside the base. I remember thinking to myself, ‘Oh, I’m going to die at this rate.’ Like, I have to keep going with the daily schedule, but I’m running on no sleep,” he added.
At one point, he went two days without sleep, which led to self-critical thoughts about his own “weakness” and sensitivity. “While in the military, I kept asking myself, ‘Why are you so weak? Is this all you got? You’ve been through more challenging times already. So why… Why do you keep losing to things like sleep… Or the military…? You have to do better,” he stated, noting it was a recurring thought he had throughout his service.
ARMYs have voiced their frustration at the toll this experience took on RM’s mental health. Many pointed out that if it were anyone else, the government might have intervened sooner, or at the very least, shown greater care, especially considering the pressure placed on high-profile figures like RM. The lasting effects could impact his ability to perform regularly, as he may now need to prioritise rest and recovery.
This isn’t the first time an idol’s mental health has suffered during military service, which only adds to the growing disappointment over the military’s lack of concern for the well-being of its soldiers. Fans, however, remain steadfast in their support, relieved that RM has completed his service and now has the space to focus fully on healing.
Here is the full live stream, or skip to 26:00 for his full statement:
Sources: Koreaboo, hrcopinion
Zaima Humaira contributed to this article
