BTS member J-Hope completed his mandatory military service on October 17. After returning home, the rapper took some time off to visit his hometown in Gwangju but now seems to be getting back to work. On Sunday, J-Hope took his first international flight in over 20 months and left for Los Angeles for an undisclosed schedule. This marks his first overseas project post-military discharge. "I'm taking a flight for the first time in one year and eight months. I am nervous,” the BTS rapper told reporters at the airport. At one point, he even joked, "Do I have to take off my shoes on the plane?" - a reference to an old joke that makes fun of first-time travellers by implying that taking off shoes is a requirement of proper in-flight behaviour.
241027 J-Hope Airport Departure to LA????????????
— Yka⁷♡︎???? ???????? (@vhopelopy_) October 27, 2024
HAVE A SAFE FLIGHT HOBI!#jhope #제이홉 #방탄소년단 @BTS_twt pic.twitter.com/hYyZn0bQJq
Known affectionately as Hobi, J-Hope is the second BTS member to complete his military service this year. Previously, the group's eldest member Jin officially returned to civilian life on June 12. J-Hope was received by Jin on his discharge day. As he walked through the Army Division, Jin gave him a warm welcome with a hug and a flower bouquet. Other BTS members including Jimin, V, Suga, RM and Jungkook were not present during the festivities. Read all about it here.
On the work front, J-Hope released a six-track extended play titled HOPE ON THE STREET Vol.1 in March this year, while he was still in the army. He also released a six-episode docu-series, which centred on his passion for dance. It followed his journey across the world to meet street dancers.
In terms of group activities, BTS members RM, V, Jimin and Jungkook initiated their military service in December 2023 and they are currently serving their time in the military. The seven of them are expected to reunite in 2025 after completing their mandatory services.
