Look, I’m a Lionel Richie guy. George Benson, too. Lately, Teddy Swims has been hitting the right notes for me. My playlist is more soul and smooth vocals than synchronized choreography. So, no, I wouldn’t call myself a BTS fan. But as the father of a 13-year-old daughter who lives, breathes, and probably dreams BTS—I might as well be by association.
Because in my house, BTS is not just a band, It’s the reason the living room TV plays YouTube compilations of choreography breakdowns. It’s why I know more about South Korea’s conscription laws than I ever intended to. And it’s why, when RM and V were officially discharged from the military today, I had no choice but to stop what I was doing and write about it.
Saxophones, Salutes, and Screams from the Lounge
RM came out of the military base playing a saxophone, which was apparently not random, according to my daughter. “It’s because it’s his signature, he’s so artistic,” she told me, as if that explained everything. V followed shortly after, all smiles and looking sharp in uniform. I barely caught a glimpse of the footage before I saw my daughter gleaming and deep in discussion with her mom, like her favorite football team had just won a World Cup.
It’s been like this for 18 months. Every enlistment, every update, every birthday post, even their military haircuts have been analyzed, dissected, and discussed over dinner. In some ways, watching the BTS members quietly fulfill their national duty while staying connected to their fans has been impressive, even to an old-school music guy like me.
A Band That Earned My Respect (Even If I Still Can’t Tell All Seven Apart)
I’ll admit, I’ve come around. Not as a full-blown ARMY member, but as someone who can’t ignore the sheer power of what BTS has built. These seven young men could have easily sought an exemption. The conversations happened, the political pressure was there, but they chose the harder road. They signed up, did the work, and kept their heads down.
Now, with Jin and J-Hope already done, and RM and V officially out, only Jimin, Jungkook, and Suga remain. The last of them, Suga, is due to finish later this month. My daughter’s already counting the days like it’s a family holiday.
The Bigger Picture: Why This Comeback Matters
I don’t pretend to understand everything about BTS. Their music is catchy, sure. Their bond with fans is real. But what’s impressed me most is the way they’ve balanced fame with responsibility. And now, they’re coming back into a world that’s changed, musically and otherwise. The charts are cluttered and while AI voices are faking emotion here comes BTS again, ready to remind everyone what real connection sounds like.
Their return isn’t just about a tour or a comeback album, but rather a cultural moment. One that bridges generations, too. I’ve seen it firsthand. My daughter dancing to “Dynamite” while I’m laying in bed reading on my Kindle, drawing me in to hum along. Totally different eras, same beat.
From One Father to the World
So no, I don’t know every member’s birthday, heck I still struggle to tell all 7 apart. I can’t do the fan chants. But I do know this: when BTS steps back into the spotlight, it won’t just be for their teenage fans. It’ll be for all of us who’ve watched them grow, who’ve witnessed their discipline, humility, and refusal to take shortcuts.
As a father, I can’t help but respect that. As a reluctant secondhand fan, I’m even a little excited.
And yes, I’ll probably be the one driving my daughter to the concert if and when they do announce a South African tour. I’ll probably wait in the car, playing some Teddy Swims to calm my nerves, but I’ll understand exactly why she’s screaming from her seat inside.
Because this isn’t just pop music. It’s a generation finding its voice and maybe even teaching us a little something in the process.
Akhram Mohamed is the Editor of Geekhub.co.za and a longtime tech insider who’s spent 20+ years testing, launching, and talking about consumer gadgets. Formerly a VP at Huawei, he now writes with a critical eye and a deep love for tech that actually makes life better. When he’s not breaking down the latest devices, he’s gaming, building businesses, simplifying strategy, or podcasting about real-world leadership. Expect honest takes, sharp insights, and the occasional dad joke.
Follow him on social media: @akreinvented
