Jungkook from BTS held a livestream with bandmate Jimin on Weverse on June 11, 2025, soon after completing his national defense duties. Both he and Jimin wrapped up their 18-month term with the South Korean Army’s 5th Infantry Unit on the same day.
During the session, Jungkook explained that he was placed in the kitchen crew and carried out cooking responsibilities. He noted the job was intense but matched his abilities well.
The BTS' maknae also mentioned he was often on duty during weekends and used oversized utensils, including a spatula nearly the size of a shovel. According to the K-pop idol, he frequently took charge of adding the final flavor touches to meals before they were served.
Supporters reacted widely on social platforms, sharing admiration for the Seven vocalist’s enthusiasm toward his army kitchen responsibilities despite working weekends.
"Jungkook said he really enjoyed cooking, so the position of cook fit him there even it was kind of hard. He also had to work on weekends. So proud of you! 🥺," an X user commented.
Jungkook’s interest in preparing food was evident even prior to enlistment, with various personal streams and community updates showing him making dishes like noodles, pasta, and other meals.
His culinary efforts had also been highlighted by other BTS members over the years. Jungkook and Jimin enrolled together on December 12, 2023, and fulfilled their assignments in the same army division.
Fans continued to shower praises on the BTS' maknae for showcasing his cooking talent.
"Jungkook really can cook!!! Thank you for the "distraction" of your return JK! Having a really difficult time and your return is helping put a smile in my heart. 🫶," a fan remarked.
"Wouldnt be surprised if someday down the road Jungkook owns restaurant/s Jk is just such a cool and interesting person person so many talents so many cool interests," a user mentioned.
"You did so well my love. Enlisting earlier than others and doing what you love while serving your country, we couldn't be prouder," a person shared.
Fans highlighted how "hard" the role was, noting he had to work extra hours, including weekends.
"Do whatever you like, we always love you so much ❤️ thanks for returning healthy," a netizen said.
"Cooking in the military is a very very hard task and lots of people tried to downplay his position. He had to not only do what the other soldiers were doing but he also had to be a cook and work extra hours and days. He was putting in work," a viewer noted.
"Yeah exactly he had to work during weekends too,he didn't get to have Saturday&Sunday off like the other soldiers so I think it was so hard for him 😭I don't know why a few fans assumed that he was off during weekends,I always knew he had to work weekends too. So glad it's over," another fan added.
BTS' Jungkook thanked fans & media during his military discharge speech
BTS' Jungkook's return drew large-scale press attention, as several media personnel and admirers assembled at the Yeoncheon Public Stadium in Gyeonggi Province, per Billboard. Jungkook made a short statement to journalists, confirming his completion of duty and acknowledging the coverage.
As translated by X user @Daily_JKUpdate, the vocalist said:
“Thank you so much for coming to reporters and everyone for coming to see us getting discharged. We report the discharge! It’s been so while we’ve been on camera so little embarrassed don’t know what to say."
He further extended gratitude to his fellow service members and superior ranks, appreciating the support shared during the enlistment phase.
“Dear soldiers who we’ve been together, those who already discharged everyone who stayed with us thank you so much for taking care of us and being so kind to us.”
His discharge follows the gradual return of his bandmates Taehyung and RM as they both completed individual military obligations on June 10, 2025.
Meanwhile, admirers can explore BTS FESTA’s virtual offerings and take part in real-world experiences all month long in June. The key physical gatherings are slated for June 13 and 14 at Venues 9 and 10 within Pavilion Center 2, KINTEX, situated in Goyang city, Gyeonggi region, South Korea.