BTS’ Jungkook is earning praise from fans after delivering a live performance during j-hope’s HOPE ON THE STAGE encore concert in Goyang on June 13, 2025. The event, which coincided with BTS’ 12th debut anniversary, marked the singer's first stage appearance since completing his military service just 2 days earlier.
As the concert started, fans were thrilled when Jungkook took the stage for a surprise performance. He joined j-hope for I Wonder, their collaboration from the rapper's album. Later, he treated the audience to a rendition of Jamais Vu, with j-hope and Jin, followed by his solo single Seven.
Despite having been recently discharged, his live vocals stunned the crowd with their stability and clarity, qualities for which he is renowned.
Jungkook returned to the stage after nearly 18 months with a polished performance that underscored his readiness.
An X user, @dailyjkpraise, wrote:
"Everyone complaining about idols vocals, but here Jung kook delivering flawless live vocals, stable and effortlessly just two days after completing 18 months of military service. The main vocal never disappoints!"
Fans praised the idol on social media, calling him a “forever artist” and reaffirming his role as BTS’ lead vocalist. Many noted how he had managed to rehearse and return to form after his military service.
"Jungkook being able to perform just a FEW DAYS after he left ms and to do it on such big stage while sounding so good like he never left oh we’re so so back i can’t wait for his own world tour," a fan commented.
"Can someone talking about the vocal stability of Jungkook after his military discharged !? OUR GOLDEN MAKNAE IS BACK," an X user mentioned.
"MY FOREVER ARTIST IS BACK," a netizen remarked.
"Vocal.... VOCALS!!! #Jungkook really makes Singing look very easy and effortless while using the best techniques to give us pitch-perfect vocals The Vocal King Indded.!!!," another one said.
Jungkook’s vocals and stage presence became one of the night’s most talked-about moments. The crowd’s response reflected just how much they had missed hearing him live.
"He is born to be on stage, with every fiber of his body! Look how happy he is!!," a fan remarked.
"Truly fascinated by jungkook's vocal ability and how he keeps outdoing himself as an exceptional artist. his flawless voice, impressive technique/range, and powerful stage presence remain untouched. 18 months later, and the giant pop star is back shining just like before leaving," another one wrote.
"Why is no one screaming about Jung kook’s post-military vocals?? The stability, the control,this man came back stronger than ever...like sir you were in uniform not a vocal bootcamp???," an X user mentioned.
J-hope’s HOPE ON THE STAGE FINAL in Goyang marked an emotional milestone for BTS and their fans. The concert was not only the final leg of J-hope’s global tour, but also a key moment in BTS’ reunion journey, as 6 of the 7 members have now completed military service.
During the concert, all BTS members were in attendance, Jin, RM, V, Jimin, and even Suga, who is still completing his alternative service. Suga surprised fans by appearing in the audience while Jungkook and Jin joined j-hope on stage.
The evening held special meaning as it aligned with BTS’ debut anniversary. This added an extra layer of nostalgia and joy for fans who have awaited an OT7 reunion for nearly 2 years.
Since completing his service in October 2024, j-hope has been preparing for this concert series. His encore stage included tracks like Arson, MORE, Sweet Dreams, and On the Street. He also performed his new single Killin’ It Girl featuring GloRilla.
With only Suga’s discharge on June 21 remaining, fans are anticipating the possibility of more group activities soon. Many hope that members might join j-hope again on day 2 of the concert or appear together at future group events.