J-hope’s First Public Appearance Post-Military Discharge at 2024 Korean Series Delayed Due to Rain

J-hope of BTS was anticipated to make his return to the public eye by throwing the ceremonial first pitch at the second game of the 2024 Korean Series, marking his first appearance since completing mandatory military service. The match, featuring the Kia Tigers against the Samsung Lions, was initially slated for October 22 at KIA Champions Field, located in his hometown of Gwangju.

However, due to inclement weather conditions, the event has been rescheduled to October 23 at 6:30 PM KST, as per reports from South Korean media outlet Sports Chosun. J-hope, who has openly declared his passion for both Gwangju and the Kia Tigers, expressed his enthusiasm for being involved in this memorable occasion.

This occasion holds significant importance as it marks the inaugural ceremonial pitch thrown by a BTS member in the KBO League in Korea. J-hope’s strong ties to the Kia Tigers are evident, especially highlighted in BTS’s song “Ma City,”where he makes reference to both his hometown and the team. The lyrics include:

“Jeollanam-do Gwangju baby – Put KIA in, start the engine, and bounce like crazy.”

Recent Updates on J-hope post-military service

The postponement follows the suspension of Game 1 of the Korean Series on October 21 due to rain. Although the weather forecast indicated a likelihood of continued rain on October 22, KBO officials remain optimistic that conditions will improve sufficiently to allow the event to go ahead as planned.

J-hope’s involvement in this event, which has featured numerous esteemed personalities in the past, adds to its significance. Fans are eagerly anticipating this event which will now occur one day later than originally set.

For those who may not be familiar, BTS’s J-hope officially concluded his 18-month military service on October 17, 2024. After enlisting in April 2023, he was discharged in good health and took a moment to express his gratitude to fans, the public, and the journalists present at his discharge event. In a brief media interaction, J-hope conveyed his heartfelt thanks.

“I need to express my gratitude. Firstly, thank you so much. I returned in good health after my military service. I truly appreciate it. I want to extend my thanks to all the reporters who came here. My successful and healthy discharge was thanks to my fans,”he stated.

Furthermore, he reminisced about his time serving as an assistant drill instructor, recalling how people in Wonju supported the soldiers during their marches. J-hope urged the public to continue showing their support for South Korea’s armed forces, recognizing the efforts of long-serving military members.

After his discharge, he hosted a live session on the Weverse platform to reconnect with fans. Currently, there are no confirmed upcoming events for the idol, but speculation is rising that he may be involved in new projects behind the scenes.

Fans are also keen to see what both J-hope and fellow BTS member Jin, who has also wrapped up his service, will reveal next.

Source