Last year, we discussed K-drama actors and K-pop idols gearing up for enlistment in 2024. Now that the year has begun, let’s shift our focus to Korean celebrities set to return from the military this year!
In South Korea, every able-bodied man is obligated to serve in the military by the age of 28. This means individuals born in 1995 and 1996 are gearing up for enlistment this year. While there are occasional exceptions for Korean citizens excelling in sports or arts on an international level, such exemptions are rare for actors and idols.
Male Celebrities Who Will Be Discharged This Year
Nam Joo Hyuk
Finally, our beloved “Weightlifting Fairy, Kim Bok-joo” star, Nam Joo Hyuk, is set to complete his military service in 2024. He enlisted on March 30, 2023, and is currently fulfilling his duty as a member of the Special Military Police under the Military Police Agency. His expected discharge date is September 19, 2024. Joo Hyuk, known for his roles in hit dramas and films like “Who Are You” and “Remember” is among the top K-drama actors.
BTS Jin and J-Hope
BTS members Jin and J-Hope are making their return in 2024. Jin is anticipated to be discharged on June 12, 2024, while J-Hope’s discharge date is set for October 17, 2024. Following them, Suga is currently in the military, with Jungkook, RM, V, and Jimin preparing to enlist this year. This means that all BTS members will potentially reunite in 2025. This is fantastic news for everyone, as the group is the most beloved K-pop group in history, achieving widespread recognition with chart-topping albums and numerous awards.
Kang Tae Oh
Kang Tae Oh, who gained recognition through “Extraordinary Attorney Woo,” is also set to return this year. Having enlisted in September 2022, he is expected to be discharged on March 19, 2024. He has showcased his versatility in various dramas like “You Are Too Much” and “The Tale of Nokdu.”
GOT7 Jinyoung and Jay B
GOT7 members Jinyoung and Jay B will finally be discharged this year. Jinyoung enlisted in May 2023, and Jay B enlisted in February 2023. Both are scheduled to complete their mandatory military service on November 4 and November 1, respectively. Emerging from one of JYP’s most popular boy groups, the two initially gained recognition as actors turned idols when they starred in the season 2 of “Dream High!”
Ong Seong Wu
Ong Seong Wu, one of the most beloved idol-turned-actors today, will be completing his military service in October 2024. Seong Wu recently garnered much love for his role as the male lead in the fantasy superhero drama “Strong Girl Nam Soon” and is recognized for his hosting talent on “Show! Music Core!“
WINNER Mino and Kang Seung Yoon
WINNER members Mino and Kang Seung Yoon are set to return from the military this year, with expected discharge dates of September 22 and December 20, 2024, respectively. Mino, known for producing hits, has fans eagerly awaiting his return to the music scene. Similarly, there’s excitement for Kang Seung Yoon’s return as both an idol and actor, especially after his notable role in the MBC sci-fi thriller “Kairos.”
Cha Seo Won
“The Second Husband” star Cha Seo Won is also poised to make his return this year. Rising to fame through the mentioned drama and finding love with his now-fiancée Uhm Hyun Kyung on set, the couple recently welcomed their first child. Cha Seo Won is expected to be discharged in May 2024 and is planning to tie the knot with Uhm Hyun Kyung.
Monsta X Minhyuk
Monsta X member Minhyuk is scheduled to complete his military service in October 2024, having enlisted on April 4, 2023. Known for his good looks, talent, and amiable personality, Minhyuk is not only a beloved member of Monsta X but also served as an MC on “SBS Inkigayo” alongside NCT’s Jaehyun and April’s Naeun.
VIXX Ravi
Having enlisted on October 22, VIXX’s Ravi is set to make his return on July 26, 2024. Ravi, a prominent member of VIXX and a producer of some of their hits, has also showcased his personality as a cast member on the popular variety program “2 Days 1 Night 4.”
While anticipating their return, let’s enjoy watching their shows and films available on KOCOWA+ with professional English subtitles.
