Woozi, the main producer and vocalist of the popular K-pop boy group Seventeen, officially began his mandatory military service on Monday, according to his entertainment agency. The 28-year-old artist, whose real name is Lee Jihoon, will serve as an active-duty soldier following the completion of a five-week basic military training program at an Army boot camp.
Pledis Entertainment, which represents the 13-member group, confirmed the enlistment but chose not to disclose the specific location of the military training facility for privacy and security reasons. This decision follows standard practice for many K-pop agencies when their artists begin their military service obligations.
Fans got their first indication of Woozi's upcoming enlistment during Seventeen's "New_" world tour concert in Incheon on Sunday evening. The artist was spotted sitting in the audience section with a noticeably short military-style haircut, enthusiastically cheering on his fellow bandmates from the crowd rather than performing on stage with them.
Following the emotional concert, Woozi took to Weverse, the popular fan community platform, to share a heartfelt message with supporters. "It was my first time watching my fellow members and Carats smile at the music I created from outside the stage. That made me quite happy," he wrote, referencing the official name of Seventeen's dedicated fanbase.
In his touching farewell message, Woozi expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from fans during this transitional period. "I'm entering the military with a lot of strength thanks to all of you. I'll serve well and return healthy," he added, promising to fulfill his duty responsibly and return safely to continue his music career.
Woozi's enlistment marks the third instance of a Seventeen member fulfilling mandatory military service obligations. Currently, fellow members Jeonghan and Wonwoo are already serving in the military, having enlisted earlier this year. The group will face another immediate departure, as member Hoshi is scheduled to begin his own active-duty military service on Tuesday, just one day after Woozi's enlistment.
Under South Korean law, all able-bodied men between the ages of 18 and 28 are required to complete between 18 and 21 months of mandatory military service. This requirement applies to all male citizens, including celebrities and K-pop stars, with very few exceptions granted for special circumstances such as Olympic medals or other extraordinary achievements in representing the country internationally.
