RM and V, members of the wildly popular South Korean band BTS, have completed their mandatory military service after 18 months.

The two singers were greeted by journalists and several hundred cheering fans at a military base in Chuncheon, South Korea, on Tuesday, according to the Yonhap news agency.

“There were many difficult and tough times, but through military life, I realized that we were able to actively pursue our careers because people were protecting and fighting for our country on the front and rear lines,” said rapper and songwriter RM, as quoted by Yonhap.

With their discharge, four of BTS’s seven members have now fulfilled their compulsory service.

Singers Jimin and Jungkook are scheduled to be discharged on Wednesday, while Suga, who is completing alternative service as a social worker for health reasons, is expected to finish on June 21. Jin and J-Hope have already completed their military duties.

Fans hope for a comeback

South Korea requires all able-bodied men to serve in the military for around 18 months, typically between the ages of 18 and 21. This obligation led BTS to take an extended group hiatus, sparking speculation about a possible breakup – rumours the band consistently denied.

BTS is one of the most successful acts in K-pop history, known for chart-topping hits like “Dynamite” and “Permission to Dance.” The group debuted in June 2013 with the single “No More Dream” and has since built a global fan base.