In a shocking turn of events for fans of the globally renowned K-pop supergroup BTS, the melancholy of “enlistment depression” has gripped the Army as all band members commence their 18-month mandatory military service in South Korea.
Leila Fadel and Michel Martin report on the emotional toll this development has taken on BTS enthusiasts, with singers RM and V recently joining their fellow bandmates in fulfilling their service duties. Fans, known as the Army, are grappling with the reality of the group’s temporary hiatus.
One devoted fan, @faceofe on TikTok, shared their coping strategy, revealing a journey to Koreatown for solace through Korean cuisine. Fadel humorously suggests that while food is her coping mechanism, perhaps listening to BTS’s music could be a more effective remedy.
The report features BTS’s hit song “Dynamite” as a nostalgic reminder of the group’s significant impact during challenging times, particularly in the COVID era. Grace Kao, a sociology professor at Yale University, highlights BTS’s global influence, not just in the music industry but in shaping societal perceptions and challenging racism.
Kao emphasizes the transformative effect of BTS on the image of Asians in America, breaking stereotypes and contributing to a shift in societal attitudes. BTS’s role as global ambassadors, even serving as ambassadors for Seoul, has contributed to the economic and cultural influence of South Korea on the world stage.
Despite the uncertainty of BTS’s musical output during their military service, Kao reassures fans that the world of K-pop offers a plethora of artists to explore. The report concludes with a touch of humor as Michel Martin jests about there being only one BTS, reflecting the sentiment of fans who are undoubtedly feeling the impact of the group’s hiatus.
As the K-pop landscape evolves with BTS’s absence, the phenomenon of “enlistment depression” sheds light on the deep connection between artists and their dedicated fanbase, transcending geographical boundaries.
