BTS' SUGA begins mandatory alternative service — HYBE

SEOUL, South Korea — A member of K-pop juggernaut BTS started his mandatory alternative service Friday, the group's agency said, after SUGA was declared unfit for the regular military draft due to health reasons.

The septet has become a global cultural phenomenon, selling out stadiums and dominating charts while raking in billions for South Korea's economy and building an international legion of fans known as ARMY.

But all able-bodied South Korean men must serve at least 18 months in the military, and after a years-long debate about whether BTS deserved an exemption, Jin, the oldest member of the group, began his service in December, with J-Hope starting basic training in April.

SUGA "has started his alternative service from today," an official with their agency HYBE said.

He will work as a social service agent, the Yonhap News Agency reported, saying SUGA had been "ruled unfit for the regular combat duty."

While all able-bodied men must serve in the military, people with health issues may be assigned to 21 months of alternative services, which can include working in an office for a municipal government.

The reasons for the decision on Suga have not been disclosed, however it is believed to be related to shoulder surgery he had in 2020, Yonhap said.

Related: BTS member Suga to begin military service this September

On Friday, SUGA told fans: "I have made it this far thanks to you all."

"The time has come," to begin my service, he wrote on social media. "I will return after diligently fulfilling my service... Let's all meet again in 2025!"

'The king will return'

Fans of SUGA — real name Min Yoon-gi — vowed that the alternative service would not be a hinderance to his career.

"Dearest Yoongi, Stay safe, stay healthy, stay