Kim Taehyung, also known as V of BTS, has apparently undergone a significant transformation during his military service, so much so that fellow members RM and Jungkook have declared him the strongest member of the group.
In a recent Weverse live broadcast on July 14, 2025, RM and Jungkook, who are known for their dedication to fitness, admitted that V had surpassed them in strength. RM described himself, Jungkook, and V as the "workout crew," noting their commitment to the gym. However, he then made a surprising statement: "Shocking news—Kim Taehyung is stronger than me now," with Jungkook concurring. RM elaborated, "The two of us, we're both getting beaten by him right now… I was pretty shocked".
The acknowledgement of V's newfound strength came as a surprise to many, especially since Jungkook has long been recognized as the most dedicated to working out, and RM had also been hitting the gym prior to his enlistment. The change, according to RM and Jungkook, is due to V's experience in the Special Duty Team (SDT) where he incorporated weight training into his routine. RM noted, "We mostly do bodyweight exercises, but Taehyung joined the special unit and started lifting weights... He's bigger than us. We can't even finish the sets he does now".
V, while seemingly shying away from the compliments, attributed his progress to consistent effort and self-discipline. "I forced myself into the habit," he said. RM, in response, called him "crazy," revealing that V now works out for two hours a day.
V's dedication within the military has not only made him stronger, but has also earned him accolades. While serving in the SDT, V became an ace marksman and was awarded the Special Warrior badge. He will also be featured in the unit's Hall of Fame for a year as a role model for other soldiers.
The members of BTS have been enlisting in the military to fulfill their mandatory service. BigHit Music announced that RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook would complete their service. No special events were planned for the discharge of RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook, and fans were asked not to visit the military locations due to limited space and safety concerns.
Currently, V is in Los Angeles to reunite with his bandmates and work on their new album, following his appearance in Paris for the Celine show.