Is BTS V returning to military service more than one year after discharge? Here's the truth behind viral photo

BTS V. Pics via X

BTS member V, aka Kim Taehyung, left his fans surprised by dropping photos of him in a military uniform. This comes more than a year after the K-pop star completed his mandatory military service in June 2025. Notably, Taehyung was seen wearing his Special Duty Team (SDT) badges, which reminded fans of his previous military role as a member of the elite unit.

BTS V shares pics in military uniform

BTS V's pictures wearing the military uniform surfaced. Fans have especially noticed Taehyung's military uniform and the badges he was seen wearing in the pics.

During his military service, Taehyung served in the Special Duty Team (SDT), an elite unit associated with specialised military missions. V was also designated as a Special Warrior and held the rank of Sergeant. His military associations reportedly included the Special Mission Unit, II Corps and the Republic of Korea Army (ROKA).

His uniform in the pictures also featured the 'Elite Warrior' insignia. Fans were quick to notice that Taehyung appeared to be wearing the SDT badges that he had previously worm during his discharge in 2025. His military uniform appearance brought back memories of his service in the South Korean Army. It also led to fans admiring his achievements during his service.

Is BTS V returning to military

Meanwhile, many fans were also worried if the singer was returning to his military service as they awaited more projects from him. However, the singer is not returning to the military. He reportedly participated in South Korea's mandatory Reserve Forces training. All discharged servicemen are required to complete the training under the country's military system.

Thus he was merely fulfilling the mandatory Reserve Forces training obligation. South Korea's Reserve Forces training programme, commonly known as Yebigun is a mandatory training ex-servicemen must complete. Being discharged from the military service does not immediately end a man's military obligations.

Under the country's system, discharged servicemen who are eligible contimue to be a part of the military reserve structure for eight years. During the eight years, they are required to take part in periodic training and readiness exercises, based on their classification and year of reserve service.