”BTS” J-HOPE wins top prize at military presentation contest... ”Military service is a source of pride”

J-HOPE (real name: Jung Ho-seok) of the boy group "BTS" won the top prize at the "Strong Warrior, Army! Presentation Contest" held at the War Memorial of Korea in Seoul on the 4th.
The contest was held to strengthen the morale of soldiers in the Army's celebration of the month of National Patriots and Veterans. Soldiers appeared as speakers and spoke about the rewards, value, and difficulties they experienced in military service.
J-HOPE, who is currently serving as an assistant instructor at the 36th Infantry Division Recruit Training Center in Wonju, Gangwon-do, participated in the competition as part of a group of three and won the top prize.
He received a certificate of commendation from the Chief of Staff, a trophy, and a prize of 500,000 won (about 56,000 yen). J-HOPE, who appeared on stage, said, "After entering the training camp, the training soldiers will learn the mental strength materials that include 'BTS'.
"Videos and photos are available. Also, every time the trainees graduate, they tell me, 'It was an honor to work with them,'" he said. "Every time I hear that, I feel a sense of gratitude for their valuable service, which is an important pillar of South Korea's security."
"Just as I contributed to the development of Korean culture with the blood, sweat and tears I shed in the military, I now feel that I am contributing in a different way as a soldier," he said.
It is my great pride to serve as a soldier in South Korea, a place where I can be of help," he said, drawing roars of applause and cheers from the audience.
While J-HOPE was making his announcement, the screen on the stage displayed the message, "J-HOPE of BTS, who led K-POP to the world, and Soldier Jeong Ho-seok, a South Korean soldier.
Phrases such as "The Chief's Feeling of Pride as a Korean Soldier" and "BTS, Bong Junho, Son Heung-min & Republic of Korea Let's Go" appeared and attracted attention.
After enlisting in April 2023, J-HOPE has been leading an exemplary military life, earning the special soldier qualification and being promoted early to serve as a squad leader.
- They were overjoyed at the news of HOPE, and in addition to their congratulations, they offered their heartfelt gratitude to the soldiers and prayed for a safe discharge.
J-HOPE prepared many works for his fans before enlisting and released them during his military service.
The band's "HOPE ON THE STREET VOL.1" and the documentary series of the same name, as well as the BT21 character "MANG" renewal work, have been loved worldwide.
J-HOPE is scheduled to be discharged on October 17th.