Jin from BTS has officially completed his mandatory service with the South Korean military.
His first order of business? He plans to hug at least 1,000 fans to show his appreciation for their support over the past 18 months.
One thousand lucky BTS fans were chosen in a raffle and will be queueing up in Seoul on Thursday for a hug from Jin, who began his military service back in November 2022.
The three-hour "hugathon" marks Jin's first public event since he was discharged from the army on Wednesday (June 12).
While 1,000 fans were selected, Jin has since said he would be willing to hug up to 3,000 fans.
In a livestream with fans, Jin expressed his gratitude, saying, "Thank you for waiting for me, I love you. I will try to express my feelings tomorrow."
Jin will also be holding a special get together for 3,000 other lucky fans where he will perform some of his songs by request as well as share messages with fans. Could that be another 3,000 hugs he gives out?
SBS News broadcast footage of Jin saying goodbye to his fellow military members, and being greeted by BTS members J-Hope, Jimin, V, Jung Kook and RM, who brought along his saxophone to serenade his friend.
Following that, Jin went live on Weverse and spoke to his fans for 20 minutes on a set filled with balloons, desserts and a sign that read, "Jin is back."
See the SBS news coverage below.
다녀왔습니다! pic.twitter.com/MpNo4Miio1
— 방탄소년단 (@BTS_twt) June 12, 2024