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Wave of K-Stars Enlist for Military Duty This Year

by admin on | 2025-05-15 19:28:21 Last Updated by admin on2025-09-23 12:58:02

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Korean Celebrities Enlist for Military Service in 2025, Pausing Careers but Not Public Support

Seoul,  — A new group of South Korean celebrities has officially begun their mandatory military service, temporarily stepping away from the entertainment industry as they fulfill a national duty that continues to resonate deeply in Korean society.

Among those enlisting this year are acclaimed actor Lee Do-hyun, rising drama star Nam Yoon-su, and Stray Kids member Hwang Hyun-jin, whose enlistment has drawn an emotional response from fans both at home and abroad.

The stars are joining thousands of South Korean men required to complete 18 to 21 months of service, typically before the age of 28. Their agencies confirmed the enlistments in late June, noting that all three began training quietly, without large fanfare.

Fans React with Pride and Sadness

While fans have expressed sadness over the temporary pause in their idols’ careers, most have responded with pride and encouragement. Hashtags such as #WeWillWaitForYou and #ProudOfYouHyunjin have trended globally on social media platforms, showing the strong emotional connection between stars and supporters.

“I’ll miss him so much, but I know he’s doing something important,” said one fan on X, referring to Lee Do-hyun. “He’s always made us proud — now he’s doing it in uniform.”

What It Means for the Industry

The enlistments will impact group promotions and drama schedules, but agencies have reassured fans that future projects are in place. Stray Kids will continue activities as a group, with members pursuing unit projects and solo work during Hyun-jin’s absence. Lee Do-hyun and Nam Yoon-su are expected to return to acting in late 2026.

Industry watchers note that military service often strengthens a celebrity’s image and adds depth to their public persona. Many who complete their duty return to renewed success.

As these stars trade scripts and stages for drills and discipline, fans across the globe are already counting down the days until their return.