Top 10: K-pop idols who enlisted in the military between 2023 and 2024 with BTS, EXO and NCT members

Several fan-favorite idols like BTS’ Jungkook, EXO’s Kai, and NCT’s Taeyong have traded their stage mics for military gear between 2023 and 2024. These K-pop have left thousands of broken hearts after their service date was announced, but fear not! Fans are counting down the calendars to have them back again.

Here’s a top 10 list of K-pop idols who answered their country’s call between 2023 and 2024:

1. Jimin (BTS): the BTS superstar kicked things off by enlisting on December 12, 2023. His anticipated discharge date is June 2025, likely on June 11, 2025.
2. RM (BTS): the BTS leader broke hearts enlisting in the military on December 11, 2023 along with bandmate V.  Fans have been hoping hard for his June 10, 2025 return.
3. Kai (EXO): Kai got drafted on May 11, 2023, with an expected return on February 10, 2025. EXO-Ls are holding their collective breath!
4. Jinyoung (GOT7): Jinyoung enlisted on May 8, 2023. Mark your calendars for November 7, 2024, because that’s when the actor-idol will be back.
5. Sehun (EXO): Our favorite maknae from EXO enlisted on December 21, 2023, leaving fans tearing up but proud. He’s set to come back on September 20, 2025.
6. Mino (WINNER): Mino checked in on March 24, 2023, swapping out his art supplies for military duties. He’ll be back in our hearts on December 23, 2024, ready to slay once again.
7. Taeyong (NCT): The NCT leader enlisted on April 15, 2024, shocking NCTzens. His highly anticipated return is set for December 14, 2025.
8. Jay B (GOT7): Jay B took off his leader hat for a soldier’s helmet on February 2, 2023. He was happily discharged on November 1 this year.
9. Jungkook (BTS): Our golden maknae joined the ranks on December 12, 2023, alongside Jimin, making ARMYs sobbing messes. He’ll be back on June 11, 2025.
10. Jaehyun (NCT): Jaehyun marched off to serve on November 4, 2024, leaving NCTzens in a whirlwind. His anticipated discharge on May 3, 2026, has fans counting the days.

By: Carlos Andrés Gaviria