The Reality of Military Service in South Korea: A Look at Celebrities in Uniform
In an ideal pacifist world, war wouldn’t exist. But sadly, that’s not the case. Its threat is always looming. As a result, in certain countries such as South Korea, mandatory military service is a very real requirement — all able-bodied males, regardless of their wealth or privilege, must fulfill conscription, including Korean celebrities.
Understanding South Korea’s Military Service Law
To grasp the significance of this law, it’s essential to understand the historical context. North and South Korea have had tense relations for a very long time, characterized by moments of escalation and deterrence, as well as lighter incidents, such as the infamous garbage balloons incident in May 2024. This ongoing tension has led the South Korean government to ensure that a readily available sect of people is trained in military arts.
The Military Service Act has been in place since 1957, mandating that “Every masculine gender of the Republic of Korea shall faithfully perform mandatory military service, as prescribed by the Constitution of the Republic of Korea and this Act.” While women can volunteer for active or reserve service, the obligation primarily falls on men. The duration of military service typically ranges from 18 to 21 months, meaning that many popular Korean celebrities who enlisted recently will complete their service by the end of 2025.
Korean Celebrities Scheduled for Discharge in 2025
As we look ahead, several well-known figures in the Korean entertainment industry are set to complete their military service in 2025. Here’s a closer look at some of them:
1. iKON’s Jay
Enlistment Date: 20 July 2023
Discharge Date: 17 January 2025
Jay, also known as Kim Jin-hwan, is the frontman and lead vocalist of iKON. He became the group’s leader in 2019 and made his solo debut just a month before enlisting with the single ‘Paradise.’
2. MONSTA X’s Joohoney
Enlistment Date: 23 July 2023
Discharge Date: 23 January 2025
Lee Ji-hwan, known as Joohoney, is a rapper and singer in MONSTA X. He also made his solo debut in 2023 with the EP Lights and has been spotted with fellow artist RM from BTS during his service.
3. EXO’s Kai
Enlistment Date: 11 May 2023
Discharge Date: 10 February 2025
Kim Jong-in, or Kai, is a member of EXO and SuperM. He debuted as a solo artist in 2020 and is known for his fashion influence, serving as a brand ambassador for Gucci.
4. MONSTA X’s Kihyun
Enlistment Date: 22 August 2023
Discharge Date: 21 February 2025
Yoo Ki-hyun, the main vocalist of MONSTA X, is also recognized for his solo albums. He enlisted in the military band with the 25th Infantry Division.
5. Kim Min-jae
Enlistment Date: 18 May 2023
Discharge Date: 17 March 2025
A popular actor known for roles in Dr. Romantic and Goblin, Min-jae transitioned to the Army Band after his basic training, reuniting with BTS’s V during his service.
6. MONSTA X’s Hyungwon
Enlistment Date: 14 November 2023
Discharge Date: 13 May 2025
Chae Hyung-won is not only a member of MONSTA X but also a DJ and model. He became a brand ambassador for John Varvatos and Givenchy in 2023.
7. Lee Do-hyun
Enlistment Date: 14 August 2023
Discharge Date: 13 May 2025
An acclaimed actor, Do-hyun is known for his roles in popular K-dramas. He enlisted in the Air Force military band.
8. TEEN TOP’s Changjo
Enlistment Date: 20 November 2023
Discharge Date: 19 May 2025
Changjo, also known as Choi Jong-hyun, is the last member of TEEN TOP to enlist. He has recently begun his solo career while remaining part of the band.
9. BTS’ V
Enlistment Date: 11 December 2023
Discharge Date: 10 June 2025
Kim Tae-hyung, or V, is not only a member of BTS but also an actor and solo artist. He serves in the Army’s Ssangyong unit.
10. BTS’ RM
Enlistment Date: 11 December 2023
Discharge Date: 10 June 2025
RM, or Kim Nam-joon, is the leader of BTS and a successful solo artist. He is serving in the Special Task Force of the Capital Defense Command.
11. BTS’ Jungkook
Enlistment Date: 12 December 2023
Discharge Date: 11 June 2025
Known as the "it-boy" of K-pop, Jungkook is serving as a cook during his military service, much to the excitement of his fans.
12. BTS’ Jimin
Enlistment Date: 12 December 2023
Discharge Date: 11 June 2025
Jimin, also a member of BTS, is serving in the Artillery Fire Direction Centre after launching his solo album Face in 2023.
13. Oh Hee-jun
Enlistment Date: 12 December 2023
Discharge Date: 11 June 2025
A former member of KNK, Oh Hee-jun has embarked on a solo career after leaving the band.
14. Pentagon’s Shinwon
Enlistment Date: 21 December 2023
Discharge Date: 20 June 2025
Shinwon, a member of Pentagon, is currently serving while the group’s activities are on hold.
15. BTS’ Suga
Enlistment Date: 22 September 2023
Discharge Date: 21 June 2025
Suga, also known as Min Yoon-gi, is serving as a social service agent during his conscription.
16. EXO’s Sehun
Enlistment Date: 21 December 2023
Discharge Date: 20 September 2025
Sehun is not only a rapper but also an actor, known for his roles in various dramas.
17. Song Kang
Enlistment Date: 2 April 2024
Discharge Date: 1 October 2025
The heartthrob of K-drama, Song Kang rose to fame through Netflix series and is currently serving as an active-duty soldier.
18. NCT’s Taeyong
Enlistment Date: 10 April 2023
Discharge Date: 10 October 2025
Taeyong, a member of NCT and SuperM, is also a successful solo artist and brand ambassador.
19. Hwang Min-hyun
Enlistment Date: 21 March 2024
Discharge Date: 20 December 2025
Known for his roles in popular dramas, Min-hyun has also been a member of Wanna One and NU’EST.
The military service requirement in South Korea is a significant aspect of the culture, affecting not only the lives of ordinary citizens but also the careers of beloved celebrities. As these stars prepare for their eventual return to the entertainment scene, fans eagerly await their comebacks, marking the end of a chapter and the beginning of new adventures.
