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Renowned for his intellect and musical prowess, BTS leader RM, also known as Kim Namjoon, recently completed his basic military training alongside bandmate Kim Taehyung (V). The duo stood out as "Elite Graduate Trainees," earning accolades for their exceptional performance in the 27th Recruit Training Regiment.
RM's journey in the military took a poignant turn during his graduation ceremony, where he delivered a pre-recorded video message. In the speech, he candidly shared his experiences as an older enlistee, expressing anxieties about joining at a comparatively advanced age.
Notably, he highlighted the camaraderie forged during a memorable night march, emphasizing the importance of basic military training in a divided Korea.
However, the speech became a catalyst for intense discussions within the BTS fandom, ARMY, particularly on social media platforms like X (formerly known as Twitter). Fans found themselves divided into distinct camps regarding the authenticity and intent behind RM's words.
A significant faction expressed skepticism, raising concerns about possible coercion and asserting that the content did not align with RM's public worldview. Doubts about sincerity emerged, as some fans questioned whether the speech was a genuine reflection of RM's thoughts or a carefully crafted narrative.
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
— linds⁷ (@srndpjmtyy) January 16, 2024
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
Conversely, another group commended RM for his effort to share a positive perspective and provide reassurance to younger trainees navigating the unfamiliar enlistment process. They saw the speech as a genuine attempt to uplift spirits and build camaraderie.
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
in a difficult situation the majority of them had no say in. And he still managed to sneak in some pacifism. Call it what you want, but the intent was most likely to provide comfort to all the young men who are likely facing their first real challenges, far away from home (2/3)
— 🌊 a hundred indecisions 🌊 (@ultramarineJoon) January 16, 2024
A third faction took a critical stance, arguing that the speech, being a personal account, should be excluded from public debate or discussion.
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…
— hoseok’s thighs ✨ (@hobihoseokie) January 16, 2024
