SEOUL — BTS fans hoping to tick off one of Busan’s most popular ARMY pilgrimage spots have just one year left to make the trip, after Jimin’s father announced plans to close his café, ZM-illennial.

The fan-favourite destination, packed with BTS memorabilia, artwork and gifts dedicated to the K-pop star, is set to shut its doors in 2027 after years of welcoming visitors from around the world.

The announcement came in an Instagram post on Nov 1, with the café launching a 365-day countdown to its closure.

“Starting from today, ZM-illennial has 365 days left with you,” the post read.

No reason was given for the decision, according to The Korea Herald.

For ARMY, however, ZM-illennial has never been just another coffee spot.

Operated by Jimin’s father, the café has become a must-visit destination for fans travelling to Busan, the hometown of both Jimin and fellow BTS member Jungkook.

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A post shared by @zm_illennialcafe_

Inside, visitors are greeted by displays of BTS memorabilia, portraits of Jimin and gifts sent by fans, giving the space a distinctly personal connection to the singer.

Fans can also browse merchandise, leave messages for Jimin in guest books and, if they’re lucky, meet his father, who occasionally greets visitors and signs autographs.

The café first opened as Magnate in 2019 before being renamed ZM-illennial, building a following among local and international ARMY along the way.

Its popularity has made it a regular stop on fan itineraries, offering visitors a chance to connect with Jimin’s roots and the wider BTS fandom.

In its farewell announcement, the café thanked those who had supported it over the years, particularly fans who had travelled long distances to visit.

“To everyone who has visited, cherished, and continued to support ZM-illennial with unwavering love and kindness, we sincerely thank you from the bottom of our hearts,” it said.

The café also expressed hope that its remaining year would be an opportunity to create more memories rather than simply mark the days until its closure.

“We hope these 365 days will be more than just a countdown, but a precious time to create more happiness and memories together,” the post added.

While an exact closing date has not been confirmed, the announcement gives fans one final year to experience the Busan landmark before it disappears from the ARMY travel map.

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