EXO’s Kai. Twitter/EXO
EXO’s Kai has apologized to his fans on social media after it was confirmed that he would enlist in the military on May 11.
The confirmation was made by SM Entertainment, Kai’s label, on Wednesday night, May 3, saying he would serve as a public service worker.
The music label noted that the “Rover” hitmaker was in the midst of preparing for EXO’s upcoming comeback set for 2023, but had to fulfill his mandatory military service following a “recent change in regulations of the Military Manpower Administration,” per MBN.
On May 11, the K-pop idol is expected to receive basic military training at an army recruit training center before fulfilling the remainder of his service as a public service worker.
“In respect of Kai’s intention to enlist quietly, his enlistment location and time will not be revealed, and there will be no special event on the day of, so we ask for the understanding of fans. Regarding the plans for EXO’s album, we will inform you once the details are sorted out,” SM’s statement read, according to a Soompi translation.
While serving in the military is mandatory for South Korean men, becoming a public service worker is an alternative for those who are deemed unsuitable for military bases. This form of enlistment includes certain factors such as family matters, financial difficulties, and health concerns.
Kai previously sustained several injuries throughout his idol career, which he revealed at a “Look Me Up” web series with 1theK Originals in November 2020, such as herniated intervertebral disc (HIVD), herniated cervical disc, and several ankle injuries.
Following the reports, the K-pop idol apologized to his fans on Instagram live video on the same day, hinting he “prepared a lot” for EXO’s comeback. Many fans also shared snippets of his apology on social media.
“I am going to work hard. If I work hard, I will be fine since I’ve been working hard for more than 20 years. I can wait. I’ve prepared a lot, but I’m sorry. That’s too bad. I had no choice,” he said. “I am sad I wouldn’t be able to show you what I have prepared. Let’s do what we have to do and see each other again.”
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Kai’s message to fans 🧸💌
🐻 Eat and rest well, okay? If you have exams, then get accepted to the places you want to go to. And above all else, don’t forget your dreams, work hard to pursue them. Let’s each do what we have to do and meet each other again. pic.twitter.com/nqKZ6CuzPQ— INTLKAI ꩜ (@INTLKJI) May 3, 2023
Kai is the seventh EXO member to enlist in the military following Xiumin, Kyungsoo, Suho, Chen, Chanyeol, and Baekhyun.
The singer debuted as the main dancer, center, and vocalist of EXO in April 2012. He also made his debut as a solo artist in November 2020, and is best known for his hit songs “Mmmh,” “Peaches,” and “Rover.” EDV