In the ever-evolving landscape of K-pop, where idols come and go, one star continues to shine brightly even from the confines of military service. BTS‘ Taehyung, better known by his stage name V, has once again captured the hearts of fans and fellow idols alike, proving that true stardom knows no bounds. As revealed by South Korean media outlet Star News on March 30, 2025, Taehyung has been crowned the most admirable senior among K-pop idols, a testament to his enduring influence and unwavering dedication to his craft and fans.
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This accolade comes as no surprise to those who have followed Taehyung’s journey, from his debut with BTS to his current role as a soldier serving his country. The poll, conducted by Japanese media Danmee, placed Taehyung at the top of a list featuring 27 idols who have worked as school uniform models. But what sets Taehyung apart isn’t just his past achievements or his striking visuals; it’s his continued efforts to remain grounded and supportive of his younger peers, even as he fulfills his military duties.
As we delve into the reasons behind Taehyung’s latest honor, we’ll explore how this multifaceted artist has managed to maintain his connection with fans, break new ground in the music industry, and set an inspiring example for the next generation of K-pop idols. From his military milestones to his record-breaking solo ventures, Taehyung’s story is one of resilience, talent, and the power of staying true to oneself in the face of change.

Setting the Standard: BTS V aka Taehyung’s Journey from Idol to Admired Senior
In the competitive world of K-pop, where the spotlight can be fleeting, BTS’ Taehyung has proven that true star power transcends the stage. His recent recognition as the most admirable senior among K-pop idols speaks volumes about his character and the lasting impact he’s made on the industry. This title, bestowed upon him through a poll conducted by Japanese media Danmee, reflects not just his popularity but the respect he’s earned from fans and fellow artists alike.
Taehyung’s influence extends far beyond his home country of South Korea. In Japan, he’s been a dominant force in popularity polls, holding the No. 1 spot for over 200 consecutive weeks on major platforms like NEHAN, BIHAN, K-Board, and K-pop Juice. His appeal has even surpassed that of local stars, making him the most mentioned Korean celebrity in Japan and outperforming Japanese celebrities in Google Trends. This international acclaim underscores Taehyung’s unique ability to connect with audiences across cultural boundaries.
But what truly sets Taehyung apart is how he’s handled his military service. Since enlisting on December 11, 2023, he’s approached his duties with the same dedication and excellence that characterized his career as an idol. After completing basic training, Taehyung was assigned to the Special Task Force under the Military Police Corps, later joining the elite Ssangyong Unit of the 2nd Corps on February 8, 2024. His recent promotion to Sergeant is a testament to his hard work and commitment.
Despite the rigorous demands of military life, Taehyung has found ways to stay connected with his fans. Through heartwarming messages and updates on social media platforms like Instagram and Weverse, he’s shared glimpses of his journey, including his physical transformation and the challenges he’s faced. His openness about losing 10kg and even fracturing a rib during intense workouts humanizes his experience and inspires others to persevere through difficulties.
BTS V aka Taehyung’s Recent Achievements
Achievement | Details |
---|---|
Military Rank | Promoted to Sergeant |
Album Success | “Layover” hit No. 1 in 110 countries on iTunes |
Billboard Achievement | “Winter Ahead” – First K-pop jazz song on Hot 100 |
Popularity Ranking | No. 1 for 200+ weeks on Japanese platforms |
Special Recognition | Voted most admirable senior among K-pop idols |
Taehyung’s musical career hasn’t taken a backseat during his service. His 2023 solo album “Layover” made history as the first album of the decade by an Asian soloist to hit No. 1 in 110 countries on iTunes. He followed this success with singles like “Fri(end)s” and “Winter Ahead,” a duet with Park Hyo-shin. These releases not only kept his artistry alive in the hearts of fans but also broke new ground. “Winter Ahead” became the first jazz song by a K-pop artist to appear on the Billboard Hot 100, while “Fri(end)s” charted at an impressive No. 65.
As Taehyung continues to serve until June 2025, his impact on the K-pop industry and beyond remains undeniable. His ability to balance his duties as a soldier with his role as a global icon sets a new standard for idols facing military service. It’s not just about maintaining popularity; it’s about growing as an individual and using one’s platform to inspire and encourage others.
Taehyung’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that true artistry and influence can flourish even in unexpected circumstances. His dedication to personal growth, commitment to his craft, and genuine connection with fans have created a legacy that extends far beyond the typical boundaries of K-pop stardom. As he continues to set an inspiring example for both his fellow soldiers and the next generation of idols, Taehyung proves that the most admirable seniors are those who lead by example, facing challenges head-on and emerging stronger.
For ARMYs and K-pop enthusiasts worldwide, Taehyung’s story is a source of pride and inspiration. It’s a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of staying true to oneself, and the enduring bond between an artist and their supporters. As we look forward to Taehyung’s return from military service, one thing is clear: his influence as an admirable senior in the K-pop industry is set to grow even stronger, shaping the future of Korean entertainment and inspiring fans around the globe.
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FAQs
Q: When is Taehyung expected to complete his military service?
A: Taehyung is set to complete his military service in June 2025.
Q: Has Taehyung released any music during his military service?
A: While Taehyung hasn’t released new music during his service, his pre-enlistment releases like “Fri(end)s” and “Winter Ahead” have continued to chart and break records.
Q: What unit is Taehyung currently serving in?
A: Taehyung is serving in the elite Ssangyong Unit of the 2nd Corps, which he joined on February 8, 2024.