Fans were thrilled when Becky G was announced as one of the Latine performers at the 2023 Coachella Festival. And with the exciting news, speculation began about which of her past collaborators could make a surprise appearance during her set. One of the most anticipated possibilities was the potential reunion of Becky G and J-Hope of the group BTS. However, the Korean superstar will be unable to join her for a performance of their viral hit “Chicken Noodle Soup,” a trilingual remake of Webstar Young B’s hit of the same name.

Their first live performance of the track took place at 2022’s Lollapalooza festival, where J-Hope played a headlining set. After much anticipation and keeping the surprise under wraps as much as possible, Becky G joined him on stage to perform their electrifying duet. Fans have been wondering if J-Hope will return the favor and make it out to the desert, but he recently shut that possibility down. 

Due to J-Hope’s upcoming military service in South Korea, mandatory for all able-bodied men, he won’t be able to perform. “She asked me to join her for ‘Chicken Noodle Soup’ there but Coachella is in April,” he said in a recent video circulating on social media. 

“I told her that I’m going to the military. I wanted to help Becky out, but I’m not able to, so I felt very bad about that.” It’s not clear if J-Hope’s military enlistment is scheduled before or during either Coachella weekends. The K-pop star’s service is expected to last between 18 to 20 months.

Despite the circumstances, Becky G revealed last month on Twitter that she spoke with J-Hope and has no hard feelings. “I really wanted him to join me at Chella, but for obvious reasons, he can’t be there,” she wrote. “Very thankful for him and wishing him well.” The news may be disappointing for fans of both singers, but Becky G’s performance is sure to be memorable regardless.