Rising from a completely unknown group to international superstars, the Bangtan Boys (BTS), have grown to dominate the hearts of many. Their humble beginnings as an underfunded band from a small company, living in just one room for their seven members, sends an in- spiring message to their fans: unless you try, you’ll never know what you can achieve. For nine years, BTS, the South Korean pop boy band, has toiled away at their craft, making music and filming various shows for their dedicated fans, the ARMY. When the COVID-19 pandemic occurred, BTS had to cancel their Map of the Soul world tour, devastating their millions of fans. What ARMY hoped would be a quick resume of the tour turned into a full refund of tickets. BTS never planned another world tour after this one, and although they had other concerts, many ARMYs, living in smaller cities, had lost their chances to see BTS.

Under normal circumstances, all South Korean men are expected to eventually serve 18 months in the military. Although there has been controversy over BTS’s service, as they have contributed millions of dollars to South Korea sim- ply from making music, the BTS members themselves have decided that they will be fulfilling their service requirements. Until 2025, BTS will be taking a hiatus until each member has completed their service time. BTS’s older members have al- ready begun planning their leave.

BTS’s last major tour was in 2018. Since BTS has canceled their 2020 world tour, announced their military hiatus, and refunded tickets rather than honor tickets for a new tour, some ARMY definitely feel upset. Myself included, if anyone gives me the chance, I’ll talk about how I “almost got to see BTS!” Yet at the same time, I understand that BTS’s hiatus was for good reason. Even if there were no service requirements, BTS has been in the industry since 2013. They deserve a break! Waiting until 2025 to see BTS as a group again will be difficult, but I know that once they return, I’ll have many more chances to continue supporting their music and see them at a concert.

As for the rest of the world, BTS will surely be well-missed. With tens of millions of listeners on Spotify, multiple Billboard-charting songs, and one of the most loyal fanbases, BTS, for the past few years, has always had a significant presence at award shows. While I’m sure there are some who think BTS is irreplaceable, I think that their absence makes room for aspiring artists to fill their position. K-pop is becoming more popular across the world, and there are hundreds of groups that have the potential to become the “next BTS.”

For me, I’m definitely one of the people who think no one can compare to BTS. I don’t think anyone else can replace them. After their hiatus, BTS will have been a group for over a decade, so I know there isn’t much time left before they disband. Since I started listening to their music in 2017, I have always dreamed of seeing them per- form. However, with their hiatus, even though the opportunity will be delayed further, I respect BTS and their decision. In the meantime, I’m sure ARMYs across the globe will be anxiously waiting for their return!