그 동기분 마지막 사진인데… 진짜 화천은 침대가 없었던거였어?ㅠㅠㅠㅠㅠㅠㅠㅠ pic.twitter.com/NsLaA1ZZ2a
— 김무원 (@jooniefighting) April 9, 2025
Fans were quick to react to the situation, expressing anger and disappointment across various platforms. Many questioned why a base accommodating high-profile figures like RM would lack basic facilities such as beds, especially when military conditions in South Korea were said to have improved.
Ain't no fvcking way Namjoon has been sleeping on a damn wood board everyday. Hwacheon base on which Namjoon is stationed is the closest to NK with the harshest living conditions and like other bases it's not even upgraded. No mattress, legs hanging off, -20 degrees. FVCK MAN https://t.co/uGjRxlrqlM pic.twitter.com/gfJq4XwiwP
— nush⁷ (@namgiseokbase) April 9, 2025
Not the cardboard holding it down in there😭 get our man outtt pic.twitter.com/wRJDL7oZLo
— ☆タイラ⁷ (@JKcanB00YAH) April 10, 2025
This discontent led some fans to recall a previous statement made by fellow BTS member Jin, who completed his service earlier this year.
Jin had earlier mentioned in an interview that conditions in the military had gotten significantly better, even joking that they were so good it was “almost like a vacation.” But the recent revelation about RM’s situation has sparked debates, with fans wondering whether Jin’s experience was an exception or if things have changed since.
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Adding to the buzz, RM has continued to make public appearances while fulfilling his military duties. Most notably, he delivered an impressive 20-minute saxophone performance at the Victory Unit Soldiers’ Day celebration on August 2, held by the 15th Infantry Division in Hwacheon. Dressed in a 15th Division Military Band uniform and a cap marked with his military rank, RM captivated both soldiers and civilians in attendance.
An official from Hwacheon County admitted they weren’t informed ahead of time about RM's participation in the event, the official stated;
We weren’t aware of RM’s performance beforehand. Seeing him at the rehearsal raised our expectations. Tourists and residents who attended the festival must have had an unforgettable experience.
This wasn’t RM’s first public musical performance since enlisting. Back in June, he also played the saxophone during Jin’s discharge ceremony at the 5th Infantry Division in Yeoncheon County, Gyeonggi Province. The heartfelt moment between bandmates highlighted the camaraderie BTS members continue to share, even while serving in different units.
Jin later reflected on the surprise moment with typical humor. “It was the typical Namjoon, but he was wearing something super weird!” he said in an interview, referring to RM’s unusual band outfit. Fans loved the playful exchange, which served as a reminder of their strong bond.
However, the contrast between these uplifting public moments and the reported base conditions has left many supporters uneasy. Some have even questioned whether idols receive equal treatment in the military or if public performances are used to distract from deeper issues.
Despite the backlash, many fans have also expressed admiration for RM’s humble attitude and dedication to service, emphasizing that his willingness to endure difficult conditions is a reflection of his strong character.
As more BTS members continue their military service, fans remain vigilant, hoping their idols are treated fairly and respectfully while they fulfill their national duties. The incident has sparked broader conversations about military infrastructure, treatment of enlisted individuals, and whether reforms are truly being implemented across all bases.
