By Kim Hyelin

J-hope, a member of K-pop sensation BTS, on April 18 began his mandatory military service. 

He is the second member of the boy band to do so since the oldest Jin reported for national duty in December last year. 

Yonhap News of Korea on April 18 said J-hope entered a Republic of Korea Army training center for new recruits in Gangwon-do Province. 

The night before his entry, J-hope posted photos of himself saluting fans with his short haircut, saying on the fan community service Weverse, "I love you. Army (BTS' fan base), I'll be back safely."

On his Weverse livestream on April 14, he said, "I'll be back safely (from the military), so don't worry too much."

"A week ago, I felt like, 'What am I going to do?' but now, I'm good enough to say 'Is feeling this way OK?'" he added. "Time truly flies. I'll do well and come back." 

The group's management agency Big Hit Music on April 1 said on Weverse, "J-hope will fulfill his required time with the military by enlisting in the army. Please note that there will be no official event on the day of his entry." 

kimhyelin211@korea.kr