BTS‘s Jungkook and Jimin are set to enlist together under the “Companion Soldiers” buddy system, but what does this really mean and what is different about it?
In the English notice, ARMYs noticed that it said that Jungkook and Jimin would not just be enlisting on the same day but enlisting together.
Yet, in the Korean version of the translation, rather than just the term “enlisting together,” the post mentioned “동반입대,” which means they are enlisting as “companion soldiers.”
The concept of “companion soldiers” means that Jungkook and Jimin will be dispatched to the same basic training center (which is reported to be the same as Jin). After their basic training, they will be sent to the same living units in the base and will be discharged at the same time.
According to the website, while most of the criteria are the same as normal enlistment, there are some specific to this kind of service. Along with basic tests of fitness, an application has to be made. One of the big rules is that those applying cannot apply for another branch of the military, including branches like the Navy, Air Force, or alternative service.
There is also a strict stance on how they determine a close relationship. While things like families, school friends, etc., are accepted, applications can be denied if it turns out that they are being done for other reasons, like early enlistment.
In particular, unlike other branches of the military, applying for a “companion” enlistment doesn’t require any interviews. Yet, it does require another application, and the results are picked through a lottery system, with each applicant having to apply separately.
When the information was shared, netizens couldn’t hide how relieved they were to know that Jungkook and Jimin would be together during their enlistment. Sometimes, it can be a lonely time, but as they are together, it will get rid of some of that anxiety.
JIMIN AND JUNGKOOK ARE ENLISTING AS COMPANION SOLDIERS
THEY CHOSE THE BUDDY SYSTEM AND WILL HAVE EACH OTHER FOR SUPPORT IM SOBBING pic.twitter.com/6N5pjLQk3s
— lea⁷
(@seokjinbit) December 5, 2023
Jikook did the companion soldier enlistment… they’ll have each other the whole time.. I’m literally sobbing pic.twitter.com/o1aTXiwbIN
— 𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐞 ✩ (@jiminiesblush) December 5, 2023
i already watched this show and all i can say is companion soldiers are attached at the hip like they are actually together 24/7
https://t.co/HDxZOm8Sy0
— ayin
(@haedaleclipse) December 5, 2023
now that it’s official, i really hope people show the bare minimum of respect for their decision of enlisting together. this is not about them as a ship, this is about them as two people who support, trust and rely on each other. it was their choice, accept it.
— juls (@jikookheart) December 5, 2023
It doesn’t seem like they are the only idols to go through this system. In particular, ONF members Wyatt and J-US did a video during their enlistment speaking all about the concept of “companion” soldiers, including the requirements and recruitment.
For many ARMYs, it’s reassuring to know that Jungkook and Jimin will be together, and you can read the full announcement below.
BIGHIT MUSIC Shares Official Update On BTS RM, V, Jimin, And Jungkook’s Military Enlistment
