As the long-awaited BTS reunion draws closer, j-hope is offering a rare, heartfelt glimpse into what this time apart has meant for him—and for the band. In a recent appearance on The Zach Sang Show, the rapper and dancer got candid about the challenges and growth that came with the group’s break and their time in the military.
“Working solo wasn’t always easy,” he admitted. “But it was necessary. Each of us needed space to grow—through the struggles that come with personal development.”
For j-hope, the time spent apart wasn’t just about filling the gap. It was a creative reset. He believes that the members’ individual experiences will fuel a new era of BTS music. “When we come together again, we’ll bring all that growth with us. The solo projects helped us mature, and you’ll hear that in what we create next.”
Discharged from the military in October 2024—becoming the second member after Jin to complete his service—j-hope didn’t waste any time jumping back into his art. He released two albums during the hiatus: Jack in the Box (2022) and Hope on the Street Vol. 1 (2024), both of which landed in the Top 10 of the Billboard 200. His latest single, “Mona Lisa,” dropped this past March.
And his first move post-discharge? “I flew straight to Los Angeles!” he said with a laugh. “I needed to dive right back into the energy, the visuals, the creativity I love.”
With RM, SUGA, V, Jimin, and Jung Kook all nearing the end of their own military service, the countdown to BTS’s return has officially begun. “We’ll be gathering very soon to talk about the next chapter,” j-hope shared. One thing is clear: this comeback won’t be quiet. “It’s going to bring massive energy,” he promises.
