PLEDIS Entertainment has officially announced that SEVENTEEN member Wonwoo is set to begin his mandatory military service on April 3, 2025. This news follows the recent enlistment of fellow member Jeonghan in September 2024.
In their statement, PLEDIS Entertainment emphasized that there would be no official event on the day of Wonwoo’s enlistment. They kindly requested fans to refrain from visiting the site of his alternative military service, urging supporters to send their heartfelt messages through the Weverse platform.
Wonwoo’s enlistment means he will be unable to participate in several of SEVENTEEN’s scheduled activities post-April 3. Notably, he will miss the Tecate Pa’l Norte 2025 festival and the Japan fan meeting in April. However, fans can look forward to his appearance in the “SEVENTEEN in CARAT LAND” concert, scheduled from March 20 to 21, as well as various pre-recorded content that will be released during his service period.
Wonwoo, born in 1996, is among the SEVENTEEN members reaching the age for mandatory enlistment. According to South Korean law, all male citizens are required to serve in the military, typically before the age of 28. This year, other ’96 liners from the group, including Hoshi and Woozi, are also expected to begin their service.
The staggered enlistment of SEVENTEEN members presents challenges for the group’s activities. With multiple members serving simultaneously, full-group promotions will be limited. To mitigate this, PLEDIS Entertainment plans to focus on unit activities, such as the BSS subunit and collaborations between remaining members.
Fans have expressed mixed reactions to the group’s 2025 plans. While many are supportive and understanding of the members’ duties, some have raised concerns about the potential overworking of the remaining members. Discussions on social media highlight the desire for the artists to have adequate rest amidst their hectic schedules.
Wonwoo’s enlistment marks a significant moment for SEVENTEEN and their global fanbase, known as CARATs. As the group approaches their 10th debut anniversary, fans are reflecting on their journey and achievements. The temporary hiatus of members due to military service is seen as a natural progression in their careers, with supporters eagerly awaiting their return to the entertainment industry.
In the broader K-pop industry, military enlistment is a common phrase for male idols. Groups like BTS have also navigated similar periods, with members completing their service and reuniting for future projects. This cycle underscores the resilience and dedication of K-pop artists and their fans, who continue to support them through these transitions.
As Wonwoo prepares for his enlistment, CARATs worldwide are sending messages of support and anticipation for his safe return. The collective hope is for all members to reunite post-service, bringing renewed energy and creativity to their music and performances.
wonwoo’s enlistment notice
— svtr🧸 (@svtranslation) March 5, 2025
“Hello.
This is PLEDIS Entertainment.
We would like to share the news that WONWOO of SEVENTEEN will be starting his mandatory military service from April 3 this year. As such, he will not be able to attend any of SEVENTEEN’s engagements after his… pic.twitter.com/65zgCps8pG
In conclusion, Wonwoo’s upcoming military service is a poignant reminder of the responsibilities that come with being a South Korean citizen and a global entertainer. The unwavering support from fans and the strategic planning by PLEDIS Entertainment aim to ensure that SEVENTEEN continues to thrive during this period, maintaining its strong presence in the K-pop industry.