Military Service in K-POP: A Career Break or a New Beginning?

K-Pop Idols in the Military: More Than Just a Hiatus

📌 Military Service in K-POP: A Setback or a Turning Point?

In South Korea, military service is mandatory for all able-bodied men, and K-pop idols are no exception. However, they have the option to serve in the military band, where they can perform as MCs, vocalists, or dancers at high-profile national events.

A standout case is WOODZ (Cho Seung-youn), who skyrocketed in popularity after performing his 2023 track Drowning on KBS’s Korean Armed Forces Day special. This performance set off a massive reaction, propelling the song to #3 on Melon, Korea’s largest music platform. Previously popular mainly among dedicated fans, he has now become a household name in South Korea.

In the past, military enlistment was often seen as a career setback for K-pop idols. Many transitioned into solo careers or acting, as group activities could only resume once all members had completed their service.

But times are changing. More and more idols are now gaining newfound recognition during their service, proving that enlistment is no longer just a career pause—it can be a game-changing opportunity.

So, what really happens when K-pop idols enlist? Let’s break it down

🏋‍♂ What Training Do K-Pop Idols Go Through in the Military?

K-pop idols go through about 18 months of mandatory military service. When they first enter, they get a short haircut, receive their uniforms, and begin adjusting to military life. After that, they undergo five weeks of rigorous basic military training.

• Week 1: Military adaptation training, including marching drills and disciplinary education.
• Week 2: Intensive training, focusing on physical fitness, marksmanship practice, and basic combat exercises.
• Week 3: Continued intensive training with tactical drills.
• Week 4: Survival training, including chemical, biological, and radiological (CBR) exercises, often considered the toughest part.
• Week 5: Completion of basic training, graduation ceremony, and assignment to their respective military bases.

After basic training is completed, idols serve in branches like the Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marine Corps, although most choose the Army. Typically, they're assigned as combat soldiers or administrative personnel.

During military service, certain restrictions apply. Personal social media use is limited, broadcast appearances and commercial activities are prohibited, overseas travel is restricted, and official entertainment activities are generally not allowed. However, those assigned to military bands may perform at official events like Armed Forces Day, while idols in regular units rarely have these opportunities.

🎺 How Do Military Band and Regular Soldier Service Differ for K-Pop Idols?

K-pop idols can serve in the military in two main ways: by joining the military band or enlisting as a regular soldier.

Military Band Service

Unlike regular combat units, the military band is a specialized unit where soldiers can continue music-related activities. Many K-pop idols and singers apply for this unit. Military band members primarily perform at official military events, troop morale-boosting concerts, and Armed Forces Day celebrations. Some even have opportunities to participate in international exchange performances.

One of the biggest advantages of serving in the military band is that soldiers do not engage in combat duties, and the training intensity is relatively lower. Additionally, since they can continue performing, it allows for a smoother transition back into their entertainment careers after discharge.

✅ Notable K-pop Idols Who Served in the Military Band

• WOODZ (Cho Seungyoun) – While serving in the military band, he performed Drowning at the Armed Forces Day event, which led to a resurgence in popularity, even climbing the Melon charts.
• Hyungwon (MONSTA X) – Served in the military band, where he showcased his dance skills at various performances.
• Yunho (TVXQ) – Known for his strong leadership and passion, he actively participated in multiple events as an MC and performer during his service.

Regular Soldier Service

Idols who serve as regular soldiers can be assigned to various positions such as combat units, administrative roles, or supply units. They undergo the same military training and experience as other soldiers, and all official entertainment activities are strictly prohibited. Unlike military band members, they have fewer opportunities to perform or appear in media, but military service often helps them build a tougher and more disciplined image.

✅ Notable K-pop Idols Who Served as Regular Soldiers

• V (BTS) – Enlisted as a regular soldier in the army and has been receiving significant public attention throughout his service. Since he is not part of the military band, he does not participate in official performances.
• Young K (DAY6) – Served in KATUSA (Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army) and gained widespread attention after performing on Immortal Songs at the Armed Forces Day event, leading to a surge in popularity.
• Jungkook (BTS) – Enlisted in the army alongside Jimin as an active-duty soldier. Since he serves as a regular soldier, his activities, including live broadcasts and Instagram updates, have been suspended for the duration of his service.

🎤 K-Pop Idols Who Found New Opportunities During Military Service

Every year, KBS’s Immortal Songs airs a special Armed Forces Day edition, featuring artists currently serving in the military. These performances often bring renewed attention to participating idols. In particular, WOODZ (Cho Seungyoun) and DAY6 gained massive recognition through these special stages, becoming icons of chart resurgences.

✔ WOODZ (Cho Seungyoun) – The Standout Star of Immortal Songs

WOODZ (Cho Seung-youn) debuted in 2013 as a member of UNIQ, a China-Korea joint project group, before later expanding his career through solo activities across various musical genres. However, breaking into the mainstream took time.

In 2019, he competed on Produce X 101 and was selected as a final member of X1. However, the group disbanded due to a vote-rigging scandal, marking yet another challenge in his career. Despite consistently releasing solo music and earning recognition among fans as a skilled artist, he struggled to gain widespread public recognition.

That all changed when he performed his 2023 release, ‘Drowning’, at the Armed Forces Day event while serving in the military band, instantly making headlines. His powerful stage presence and exceptional vocals captivated audiences, and following the performance, his song surged up the Melon charts, leading to a remarkable career resurgence.

🎶 You can watch his performance at the link below.

✔ DAY6 – A Comeback After Military Service

DAY6 debuted in 2015 under JYP Entertainment as a six-member band, but they initially struggled to gain mainstream recognition. After facing challenges such as member departures, the group gradually began enlisting for military service. Despite these obstacles, they remained dedicated to their music.

On October 8, 2022, three DAY6 members performed ‘Time of Our Life’ at the KBS Immortal Songs Armed Forces Day special during the Gyeryong World Military Culture Expo, all while serving as active-duty soldiers. Their performance rekindled interest in the song, causing it to skyrocket to No. 4 on the Melon charts.

This milestone put DAY6’s musical talent back in the spotlight. After completing their military service, they reunited as a full group, much to the excitement of their fans. Now, in 2024, DAY6 is embarking on a global tour, reconnecting with their international audience and earning praise for their more mature and refined musical style.

🎶 You can watch their performance at the link below.

👩🏻 Ajumma K’s Comment: Learned something new about K-pop idols' military life? Oh, and guess what? NCT’s Jaehyun recently joined the Korea Military Academy’s military band, which makes him WOODZ’s junior! The latest military band performances have been absolutely incredible—don’t miss out! Check them out through the link! 😆✨

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