From Stardom To Service

Korean Celebrities Serving with Honor in the Military

To All the K-Pop and K-Drama Fans Out There,

A new and informative "LAK" newsletter is here, so please enjoy. This issue will focus on the most current events involving famous South Koreans and their mandatory military service. Some people have faithfully served their country, while others have gotten themselves into hot water by trying to avoid it. 

South Korea's national defense and security are strongly supported by the country's mandatory military service requirement for all male citizens. The policy of mandatory military service is a direct result of the unusual geopolitical circumstances on the Korean Peninsula, where tensions continue to this day. South Korea can keep a strong, well-trained force ready to defend its borders and citizens by making military service mandatory for all males of military age. In addition to supporting the values of patriotism and national unity, military service develops a sense of duty, discipline, and unity among citizens. In addition to serving as a rite of passage, military service provides young men with an opportunity to make important contributions to the protection of their country and the stability of South Korean society.

Famous People Currently Serving Their country in the armed forces

Nam Joo-hyuk

The popular South Korean actor and model Nam Joo-hyuk enlisted in the military in March 2023. Nam, who rose to fame in Korean dramas including "Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo", "The Light in Your Eyes," and “Twenty-Five Twenty-One” He is admired for more than simply his acting skills; his grace and professionalism are equally noteworthy. His fans are happy for him that he is serving his country and eagerly await his return to the entertainment industry.

BTS

Jin and J-Hope, two members of the hugely popular South Korean band BTS, are currently serving in the military. South Korea requires all males of military age to serve in the armed forces as part of the country's defense against North Korea. On December 13, 2023, Jin, a genuine guy with a great voice, enlisted in the military. J-Hope, another member of the crew, enrolled on April 18th, 2023. He not only raps but also dances for the band. The ARMY, BTS's devoted fans, have voiced their excitement for the group's comeback and offered gratitude for the artists' hard work.

ASTRO

MJ, a key member of the K-pop group ASTRO, is currently serving in the South Korean military as part of his mandatory service. Known for his dynamic vocal range and bright, energetic personality, MJ's absence is deeply felt within the group and their fanbase, AROHA. MJ enlisted on May 9th, 2023, and despite the temporary hiatus from his musical career, his commitment to fulfilling his civic duty is deeply respected. Fans around the world eagerly await his safe return and the resumption of his vibrant performances with ASTRO.

Celebrities Who Finished Their Duty With Honor

Kim Soo-hyun

Actor Kim Soo-hyun, who has been called a "heartthrob," has just finished his mandatory military service, for which he has received numerous accolades. His devoted fan base enthusiastically welcomed his return to the screen, and he has since gone on to star in a string of box office successes that have solidified his position as one of the most well-liked actors in all of Korean cinema.

Bogum Park

Talented South Korean actor Bogum Park enlisted in the military and served his country with honor. During the epidemic in August of 2020, he enrolled in the Navy Cultural Promotion Unit, where he would join the ranks of many other well-known Korean celebrities. Bogum was incredibly well-liked, but he nevertheless approached his service with a sense of duty and dignity. He served his country with discipline and commitment throughout his military career. His military service proved not only that he was dedicated to his country and willing to do his duty as a Korean citizen, but also that he was an instrumental part of the nation's defense. His fans had been counting down the days until he returned from serving in the military, and when he finally did so in April of 2022, they welcomed him back with open arms. The fact that Bogum Park served in the military speaks volumes about his character, patriotism, and dedication to his craft and only serves to endear him to his legion of admirers and the general public.

Choi Siwon 

Choi Siwon, well known as a member of the boy band Super Junior, served honorably in the military. During his time in the military, he was very involved in public service and made numerous donations to worthy charities. His devoted fan base warmly welcomed his enthusiastic return to the stage with his band.

Im Siwan

The outstanding actor and ex-member of ZE:A, Im Siwan, has returned to the entertainment sector after serving in the military. His recent successes in dramatic roles have enhanced his reputation as a talented and adaptable actor.

Psy 

The famous Korean artist and worldwide phenomenon, has also served in the military. Psy enrolled in the 52nd Infantry Division of the South Korean military in 2003. However, his concert and TV appearance schedule frequently interfered with his military service. Psy returned to the military from 2007–2009. He served his country with honor and dignity in spite of his fame, proving his loyalty to the cause. His military service demonstrated his maturity and loyalty, garnering him admiration as a citizen as well as a celebrity. His service in the military bolstered his artistic development and helped him become an even more revered figure in Korean popular culture.

The Stars Who Caused a Stir by Dodging the Draft

Yoo Seung-jun

Singer/actor Yoo Seung-jun received a lot of backlash for trying to avoid serving in the military back in the early 2000s. His vow to serve was broken when he relinquished his Korean citizenship, and he was subsequently banned from entering South Korea. The incident sparked a major issue and damaged his reputation and career. For a while, he wasn't even allowed in Korea.

Mong MC 

Artist who is both a rapper and a TV star MC Mong was prosecuted in 2010 for allegedly injuring his teeth on purpose to evade military service. The subsequent legal struggle and public attention damaged his reputation, forcing him to take time away from the show business.

Se7en 

Another musician got into controversy for dodging military duty. After being caught visiting an illegal massage parlor in 2013 while serving in the military, he received severe disapproval from the general population. The incident brought about a major scandal and had a negative impact on his career.

It's important to remember that all able-bodied Korean men are required to serve in the military, and that any attempts to avoid doing so carry severe penalties. The previously mentioned incidents serve as examples of the damage that such activities can do to a celebrity's reputation and career. As fans, we have to wait patiently and welcome them when they return to entertain us again!

We hope that you enjoyed this week's newsletter! What do you think of Korean men having to enlist in the military even if they are unwilling to? Let us know in the comments below!