BTS members to do military service in South Korea

Announcement ends long debate over whether K-pop group should get exemption

The seven members of BTS - one of the world's biggest bands - will perform military service in their native South Korea, their agency has said, ending a long national debate over whether they should receive an exemption.

While many fans of the K-pop sensations were hoping the band members would be given special consideration due to their contribution to the South Korean economy and international prestige, the artists will each serve almost two years in the military.