BTS J-Hope's anticipated role as the host of the International Military Cooking Competition took an unexpected turn on November 7th, as the Ministry of National Defense confirmed his cancellation.
This decision, unveiled by Minister of National Defense Shin Won-sik, was revealed during a meeting of the National Assembly's Budget and Settlement Special Committee. The abrupt cancellation has left both BTS fans and the general public in a state of surprise.
Unexpected Turn of Events
The International Military Cooking Competition, now in its fourth edition, is a unique event that aims to identify the top culinary talents among military personnel from South Korea, the United States, and Singapore.
Scheduled to take place at the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation in Yangjae-dong, Seoul, the event had initially considered BTS's J-Hope as its host. Discussions and negotiations with his agency were ongoing to make this a reality.
Minister Shin Won-sik justified this decision by stating, "Originally, a suggestion was made for a BTS member (J-Hope) to host the event. In my view, BTS diligently fulfilling their military service obligations like other servicemen is a better and natural example for the public."
"From now on, I have instructed not to assign any other tasks to soldiers who have entered the military after being celebrities."
"According to the principle that every young person in South Korea should serve in the military without exception, he went to the military, and from that perspective, it is inappropriate to use celebrities for military purposes."
J-Hope, a prominent member of the globally renowned K-pop group BTS, had enlisted in the 36th Division in Wonju, Gangwon Province, in April, undergoing basic military training.
Subsequently, he was selected as an army instructor at the 36th Division's recruit training center. This marks one of several instances where BTS members have been actively participating in their mandatory military service, reflecting their commitment to fulfilling their civic duties.
The cancellation of J-Hope's hosting role for the International Military Cooking Competition has certainly sparked discussions about the involvement of celebrities in such events, particularly during their military service.
The decision appears to align with the government's commitment to ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their status, serve in the military as part of the broader social fabric. As BTS continues to contribute to society through their military service, their actions are closely watched by fans and the public alike.
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Cassidy Jones wrote this.
