On October 20, 2024, BTS fans were excited to receive an update about Jungkook, who has been serving in the military since December 2023. Recently, a fan working at a restaurant in South Korea shared her unexpected and emotional encounter with Jungkook, who was dining with SEVENTEEN's Mingyu and DK.
According to the fan’s post on social media, the BTS member was dining with his close friends from the 1997-born line, likely during a brief break from his military duties.
The fan, visibly emotional, wrote that she was overwhelmed with joy upon seeing the BTS member. The fan described him as “really sweet, white, and circle.”
A few hours later, another fan on TikTok confirmed that Jungkook, Mingyu, and DK were seen dining together, likely just before SEVENTEEN's flight to the U.S. for their tour.
Fans on X were overjoyed to know Jungkook was taking time to relax, eat well, and enjoy his short break. A user on X, @Jaykayhay7 wrote:
"So happy to get an update on Jungkook. Miss him so much."
"jungkook is truly the most sweetest . i miss him even more," another fan commented.
"He is the sweetest, I hope I get to meet him someday," an X user wrote.
"the fact that his absence has fans crying & emotional when they see him.. his return is going to be insane," a user mentioned.
"I really miss him so much..I would have bawled my eyes.when are u coming back," a user wrote on X.
Many expressed their joy over the update, commenting on how much they miss the BTS star and how relieved they are to see him doing well while in the military.
The simple interaction spread across social media, with fans cherishing the glimpse into the artist's life outside of his military service.
"BTSVT Friendship is definitely solid! JK make time during his off to meet with DK and MINGYU before their flight for world tour today. ArmyCarats let's celebrate for this genuine friendship! Support each other!!," a fan commented.
"My baby eating well and hanging out with his friends I'm glad to know," another user mentioned.
More about BTS' Jungkook's friendship with 97-liners
The 97-liners, a well-known group of K-pop idols born in 1997, are recognized for their tight-knit bond and frequent social gatherings. This group includes SEVENTEEN's Mingyu and DK, Stray Kids' Bang Chan, GOT7's Yugyeom and Bambam, and NCT's Jaehyun, among others.
Before Jungkook enlisted in the military, he was seen dining with Mingyu and Eunwoo at a restaurant last year. Their friendship is often showcased through joint activities and online interactions.
In February 2024, several '97-line' members attended a listening event for GOT7's Yugyeom’s album release, including SEVENTEEN’s Mingyu, DK, THE8, NCT’s Jaehyun, Woozi, Vernon, and ATEEZ’s Mingi.
The BTS member and Eunwoo were notably absent due to the former's military service and the latter's work commitments.
Fans of K-pop often cherish these rare moments when idols from different groups come together, as cross-group interactions.
Meanwhile, the Still With You singer is currently enlisted in the military and is scheduled to be discharged in June 2025.