The Reality of Military Service in South Korea: A Look at Celebrities in Uniform
In an ideal pacifist world, war wouldn’t exist. Yet, the reality is starkly different, with the specter of conflict always looming, particularly on the Korean Peninsula. The ongoing tensions between North and South Korea have led to a unique societal structure where mandatory military service is not just a norm but a legal requirement. In South Korea, all able-bodied males, regardless of their wealth or celebrity status, must fulfill their conscription duties. This includes many of the country’s beloved stars, who trade their glamorous lives for military uniforms, albeit temporarily.
Understanding the Military Service Act
The Military Service Act, established in 1957, mandates that every male citizen of South Korea must serve in the military. Article 3 of the Act states, “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. A feminine gender may perform only active service or reserve service through volunteering.” This law reflects the South Korean government’s commitment to maintaining a strong defense force in light of the persistent threat posed by North Korea.
The duration of military service typically ranges from 18 to 21 months, which means that many popular Korean celebrities who enlisted in recent years will complete their service by the end of 2025. As fans eagerly await their return, let’s take a closer look at some of the notable figures who are currently serving or will soon be discharged.
Korean Celebrities Scheduled to Get Discharged from the Military in 2025
1. iKON’s Jay
- Enlistment date: 20 July 2023
- Discharge date: 17 January 2025
Jay, also known as Kim Jin-hwan, is the charismatic frontman of the K-pop group iKON. He took on the leadership role in 2019 and made his solo debut just a month before enlisting, releasing 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 made his solo debut in 2023 and has been serving as an active-duty soldier, even reuniting with his friend 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 multi-talented artist known for his work with EXO and as a solo performer. He is currently serving as a social service worker after completing basic training.
4. MONSTA X’s Kihyun
- Enlistment date: 22 August 2023
- Discharge date: 21 February 2025
Kihyun, the main vocalist of MONSTA X, is serving in the military band with the 25th Infantry Division, showcasing his musical talents even while in uniform.
5. Kim Min-jae
- Enlistment date: 18 May 2023
- Discharge date: 17 March 2025
Known for his roles in popular dramas, Kim Min-jae transitioned to the Army Band after his training, where he has had the opportunity to reconnect with friends like V from BTS.
6. MONSTA X’s Hyungwon
- Enlistment date: 14 November 2023
- Discharge date: 13 May 2025
Hyungwon, a DJ and singer, has also ventured into acting. He enlisted as an active-duty soldier and was promoted to corporal in June 2024.
7. Lee Do-hyun
- Enlistment date: 14 August 2023
- Discharge date: 13 May 2025
Lee Do-hyun, a rising star in the K-drama scene, is serving in the Air Force military band, blending his passion for music with his duty.
8. TEEN TOP’s Changjo
- Enlistment date: 20 November 2023
- Discharge date: 19 May 2025
Changjo, the last member of TEEN TOP to enlist, is balancing his military service with his aspirations as a solo artist.
9. BTS’ V
- Enlistment date: 11 December 2023
- Discharge date: 10 June 2025
V, or Kim Tae-hyung, is not only a member of BTS but also an accomplished actor and solo artist. He is currently serving in the Army’s Ssangyong unit.
10. BTS’ RM
- Enlistment date: 11 December 2023
- Discharge date: 10 June 2025
RM, the leader of BTS, is known for his musical prowess and leadership skills. 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
Jungkook, often referred to as the "it-boy" of K-pop, is serving as a cook during his military service, much to the delight of his fans.
12. BTS’ Jimin
- Enlistment date: 12 December 2023
- Discharge date: 11 June 2025
Jimin, another beloved member of BTS, is serving in the Artillery Fire Direction Centre, showcasing his commitment to his country.
13. Oh Hee-jun
- Enlistment date: 12 December 2023
- Discharge date: 11 June 2025
Former KNK member Oh Hee-jun is pursuing his solo career while fulfilling his military duties.
14. Pentagon’s Shinwon
- Enlistment date: 21 December 2023
- Discharge date: 20 June 2025
Shinwon, a member of Pentagon, is currently serving, with his band’s activities on hold during his conscription.
15. BTS’ Suga
- Enlistment date: 22 September 2023
- Discharge date: 21 June 2025
Suga, known for his impactful lyrics and music, is serving as a social service agent during his time in the military.
16. EXO’s Sehun
- Enlistment date: 21 December 2023
- Discharge date: 20 September 2025
Sehun, a prominent figure in EXO, is balancing his military service with his burgeoning acting career.
17. Song Kang
- Enlistment date: 2 April 2024
- Discharge date: 1 October 2025
Song Kang, the heartthrob of Netflix series, is serving as an active-duty soldier, further solidifying his status as a versatile entertainer.
18. NCT’s Taeyong
- Enlistment date: 10 April 2023
- Discharge date: 10 October 2025
Taeyong, a rapper and songwriter, is serving in the military while maintaining his role as a global brand ambassador.
19. Hwang Min-hyun
- Enlistment date: 21 March 2024
- Discharge date: 20 December 2025
Hwang Min-hyun, known for his musical and acting talents, is currently serving, with fans eagerly awaiting his return.
As these celebrities navigate their military service, they embody the spirit of duty and sacrifice that is deeply ingrained in South Korean society. Their eventual return to the entertainment industry is highly anticipated, as fans look forward to reuniting with their favorite stars. The military service experience not only shapes these individuals but also reinforces the cultural significance of duty in a nation that remains vigilant in the face of ongoing tensions.
