They’re young, they’re gorgeous, and they’re the ultimate squad of ‘97-born idols. Names like BTS’ Jungkook, ASTRO’s Cha Eunwoo, or NCT’s Jaehyun are all facing that inevitable military enlistment—so let’s break down the top five we’re watching!
From idols who are about to enlist, to those already serving, here’s the real tea:
05. Jungkook (BTS)
1 year ago, #Jungkook began his mandatory military service in South Korea 😭
Jungkook has 6 months left… pic.twitter.com/pQak5um416
— 𝐒𝐀𝐑𝐀 (@_rapperjk_) December 11, 2024
The golden maknae stepped into military life on December 12, 2023. Expect him back in action in June 2025, fully charged and ready to reclaim his throne. ARMY is literally counting down the days.
04. Jaehyun (NCT)
NCT’s JAEHYUN is expected to be discharged from military service on May 3rd, 2026.
He will serve as an active army soldier.https://t.co/I4ugpfUIMQ pic.twitter.com/pfsYOEff5Q
— Kpop Charts (@kchartsmaster) September 26, 2024
Our smooth vocalist has already embarked on his patriotic journey on November 4, 2024. But mark your calendars for May 3, 2026, when Jaehyun’s silky tones will grace us once again. Meanwhile, NCTzens are expecting his safe return.
03. Kim Mingyu (SEVENTEEN)
mingyu doesnt need to go to military actually because hes already serving pic.twitter.com/Jmt9Elh2Ns
— nana (@thelilacwoo) December 17, 2023
The SEVENTEEN heartthrob recently teased fans, saying he’s “not yet” enlisting. With SEVENTEEN’s constant comebacks, he’s clearly too busy slaying stages to pack his bags, and Carats couldn’t be happier.
02. Cha Eunwoo (ASTRO)
BTS' Jungkook reportedly had a visit from Cha Eunwoo of Astro and Lee Know of Stray Kids in early March, and the trio had dinner together at a barbecue restaurant near his military unit. pic.twitter.com/XijI2T21bp
— SK POP (@SKPopCulture) April 12, 2024
The actor and singer hasn’t spilled the tea on any enlistment plans yet. Fans are on high alert, refreshing social feeds daily for the slightest hint.
01. Yugyeom (GOT7)
it seems like yugyeom will be enlisting early,,, he technically doesn't need to go until the end of 2026 but he said he'll be back in two years time — so he's probably enlisting with youngjae then? pic.twitter.com/Gj6TSjpLUu
— aleyna 🏹❄️ (@bamjaeism) November 1, 2024
The GOT7 member and R&B singer recently hinted at his military enlistment at a concert in Australia, although he wasn’t very specific about dates. Before getting ready to serve his country, he will be dropping a new mini-album with GOT7 on January 25, 2025.
