In the wake of BTS members RM and V completing their basic military training and participating in a graduation ceremony, a wave of controversy has swept through the ARMY fandom.
The epicenter of the storm? RM's graduation speech, delivered via a pre-recorded video message during the event.
Celebrating Achievements
The graduation ceremony was not only a milestone for the two BTS members but also an occasion to acknowledge their outstanding performance.
Videos circulating online captured the moment RM and V were honored with awards for their exceptional accomplishments during basic military training.
RM's Address Raises Eyebrows
RM's speech took center stage, as he delved into the complexities of his military journey. He began by addressing the prolonged delay in his enlistment, candidly expressing concerns about joining the military at a comparably older age.
The BTS leader then emphasized how the comprehensive military training heightened his awareness of South Korea's defense force, especially given the country's current ceasefire situation.
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Reflecting on Training Moments
Sharing insights into his basic training, RM highlighted a poignant experience-a night march with comrades. He expressed gratitude to officers and platoon leaders who guided him through demanding training sessions, creating lasting memories.
뷔랑 알엠 최정예훈련병으로 뽑혀서 상받는 걸 봐서 공유합니다ㅎㅎ pic.twitter.com/1L8pJMQPEp
— 빈짱이 (@jloverbin) January 16, 2024
In his closing remarks, RM acknowledged the less-than-ideal reality of conscription but stressed its necessity for maintaining a peaceful environment. He recognized the sacrifices required to safeguard the nation and underscored the crucial role played by those in the defense force.
Fanbase Divided
RM's speech triggered a division of opinions within the ARMY fandom. Some fans questioned the authenticity of his words, speculating about government influence and potential coercion.
i don’t think namjoon would ever pen a speech like that. never. i do not claim to fully know his thoughts but i think we all agree to know enough that the message was a *coercion* from the govt.
— jus (@soowoogyu) January 16, 2024
forcing joon to do the most propaganda speech ever for the 🪖 knowing what he’s said in the past about it and fans just throwing that video around is making me sick… if you see any military content that isn’t coming from the boys themselves block and report and move on please
— linds🍊 (@srndpjmtyy) January 16, 2024
Kim Namjoon who was furious in Busan rapping "you can't control my shit". Kim Namjoon whose favorite painting is by an activist turned artist. Kim Namjoon who wrote Spring Day. Kim Namjoon who told us to use BTS to love ourselves.
— Mix⁷ | APOBANGPO 💜🍉 (@MixDrop7) January 16, 2024
That speech are not his words.
Trust BTS.
They pointed to perceived inconsistencies between RM's public worldview and the content of his speech.
Contrasting Reactions
Conversely, other fans praised RM for sharing his positive military experience, applauding his transparency. Meanwhile, a faction of the fandom criticized any engagement with the speech's content, arguing that it wasn't intended for public consumption.
I don’t see anything wrong with his speech tho? It’s diplomatic, clearly states his stance, yet recognizing the system. The words are just so Namjoon?? https://t.co/Rl3QxXB9gB
— prim⁷ (@iritaescentsky) January 16, 2024
About Namjoon’s speech: the intended audience was never us, sitting at home spouting opinions about a country most of us will never live in. It was for young trainees who must be terrified of their uncertain future. The emphasis was on camaraderie, and finding meaning (1/3)
— 🌊 a hundred indecisions 🌊 (@ultramarineJoon) January 16, 2024
The way y'all still talking about that speech.... It's like we're not reading the same speech. How is Joon speaking about HIS EXPERIENCE in the military and ending it with his wish that MS wasn't needed, PROPAGANDA? It's him speaking on what he EXPERIENCED😒
— Poppy💙RP.WP🫱🏽🫲🏾 NEVA PLAY💜 (@CrabbieCakes) January 17, 2024
First of all fuck whoever filmed Namjoon’s speech bc bighit was pretty clear that y’all weren’t supposed to be there. Second of all fuck them for making him do a speech bc of course they know his influence
— Tony⁷ 🤍 (@colorfuleutony) January 16, 2024
um… is that video of namjoon giving a speech supposed to be on social media??? bc i’m not fucking sure that it is and i’m not fucking sure that he’d be happy that it’s circulating…
— dr. hoseok’s thighs ✨ (@hobihoseokie) January 16, 2024
As BTS continues to navigate the complexities of individual growth and public scrutiny, RM's graduation speech stands as a focal point for introspection within the ARMY community, highlig
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Written by Cassidy Jones.