Courtesy of J-Hope's Instagram
Jung Ho-seok, better known as J-Hope from the popular K-pop group BTS, won the top prize in an Army presentation contest with a speech about his experiences as a soldier. The event took place at the War Memorial of Korea on Wednesday, under the theme “2024 Strong Warrior, Army.”
Jung, currently serving as an assistant instructor in the 36th Recruit Training Battalion, shared insights into his military life and the pride he feels in his role. The contest was part of a commemoration for the month of patriots and veterans in Korea and was attended by approximately 170 soldiers and civilian workers.
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| ▲ J-Hope of BTS / Courtesy of J-Hope's Instagram |
During his speech, Jung mentioned the use of BTS videos and photos in educational materials to help conscripts stay focused during their training sessions. He highlighted the significance of his interactions with new soldiers, noting the honor expressed by conscripts who complete their boot camp under his guidance.
“In the Army, I found videos and photos of BTS in the education materials that helped conscripts stay focused during the session. Every time conscripts complete their month-long boot camp and leave for deployment, they tell me that it was an honor to have spent time with me,” Jung said.
He emphasized the meaningful and rewarding nature of his current life, drawing a parallel between his contributions to Korean culture as a performer and his contributions to national security as a soldier. “I feel like I am living a very meaningful and rewarding life these days. Just as the blood, tears, voice, and sweat I shed on stage contributed greatly to the development of Korean culture, I feel that I am now contributing to Korea as a soldier, in a different way,” he added.
Jung Ho-seok enlisted in the Army in April last year and is scheduled to be discharged on October 17.
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Blue YIM, yimyoungseo1010@naver.com
