All able-bodied Korean males between the ages of 18 and 35 must serve two years of military duty and actors are no exception.
Who's up next? The very next k-drama and k-movie star to report for duty is rumored to be Lee Seung Gi. At the wrap-up party for his film "Chemistry," the 29-year-old actor was asked about his enlistment date and he said he was ready.
"I am happy to serve," said Lee. "And I will return safe and healthy."
There have been conflicting reports as to when he will enlist but according to his agency, Hook Entertainment, nothing has been finalized. He has not yet received his draft notice.
He's not the only actor with an approaching enlistment date and if he doesn't enlist for a few months, he won't necessarily be next.
Yoo Ah In's drama "Six Flying Dragons" wraps up in April and the 30-year-old actor is expected to receive his enlistment date before June, according to the Korean media outlet Sports DongA. It will be difficult for the actor to further delay his service.
In a recent interview Yoo Ah In said he would enlist after the drama ends.
Joo Won, Lee Min Ho, Jang Geun Suk, Seo In Guk and Big Bang's Choi Seung Hyun aka T.O.P. are all 28. Kim Soo Hyun is 27. Kim Junsu is 29
Actors often postpone enlistment as long as they can so they can establish careers while they are still young. All of these stars could be considered established but that does not mean some are not busy working and adding to their resumes.
Lee Seung Gi has made two films in the past two years; "Chemistry" aka "Marital Harmony" and "Love Forecast." Yoo Ah In appeared in the action film "Veteran" and the historical film "The Throne" in 2015. In 2016 he can be seen in the film "Like For Likes."
Joo Won, who recently appeared in the drama "Yong Pal" is considering his next project and has also said in interviews that this is the year he is likely to enlist.
Lee Min Ho's fans will be able to see him in at least one more film if he enlists in the next year.The star of the film "Gangnam Blues" and the drama "The Heirs" is busy shooting "The Bounty Hunters."
Kim Junsu will be the last member of JYJ to enlist as Park Yoo Chun and Kim Jae Joong are already serving. Kim Junsu currently stars in the musical "Dracula."
Meanwhile Big Bang's T.O.P. will be the first member of the group to serve as he is the oldest.