If you’re a K-pop fan, you might have already experienced your favorite idol taking a break from singing and going to serve in the South Korean military. If you haven’t had this experience, be prepared for it.
Why do they have to serve in the military? Because it’s not only K-pop idols, but all able-bodied men in South Korea have to go for military service between the ages of 18–28. Technically, South Korea is still at war with its neighbour, North Korea. The nation wants each man of the country to be able to protect themselves and their family as well as the country in times of necessity. That is why every man, including celebrities, goes to serve in the military. This enlistment period lasts from 18 to 21 months, depending on the chosen service. One can serve in the army, navy, air force, or social service. The social service period is 21 months, and the other three services last for 18 months.
One can delay or postpone their military enlistment if they have extraordinary career achievements, like some athletes and K-pop idols. Some idols enlist in the military at the age of 30. EXO Baekhyun, BTS Jin enlisted when they were about 30.
Exemption from military service is only possible if a person is medically certified not to be fit mentally or physically, or if one brings prestigious achievements for the country like athletes and classical musicians. There is another option for exemption: if a South Korean man holds citizenship of another country, it becomes their choice to serve in the military or not. But there is a condition in that case—if a man holding dual citizenship chooses not to serve in the military, he might lose his South Korean citizenship. This is a big price, though many people have done this.
So many idols are serving in the military right now. All the BTS members except Jin and J-Hope are in military service, EXO Sehun, MONSTA X Hyungwon, and many more. Footballer Son Heung-min didn’t have to serve in the military because he won a gold medal at the Asian Games.
Are your idols already in the military or preparing to serve the nation? Which idols are going to enlist in 2025? Find out if your bias is in the list.
