WONWOO, member of the renowned K-pop group SEVENTEEN, is set to begin his military service on April 3, 2025, marking his departure from public performances and fan meetings for the foreseeable future. This announcement was made on March 5, 2025, by PLEDIS Entertainment through the global fan communication platform, Weverse.
With his enlistment, WONWOO will miss several significant events, including the "Tecate Pa'l Norte 2025" music festival scheduled for April 4, 2025, in Monterrey, Mexico, and the anticipated Japanese fan meeting titled "SEVENTEEN 2025 JAPAN FANMEETING 'HOLIDAY'" set for Osaka from April 24 to 26, 2025, and Saitama on May 10 and 11, 2025. His absence from these high-profile events is sure to be felt by fans around the world.
Despite these upcoming changes, WONWOO will still participate in the "SEVENTEEN in CARAT LAND" concert on March 20-21, 2025, which will take place at the Munhak Stadium in South Korea. The concert is expected to be filled with exciting performances, allowing him to connect with fans one last time before his service commences. PLEDIS Entertainment reassured fans, stating, "WONWOO will participate as planned and meet with CARATs through various prepared activities."
On the day of his entry to the training center, there will be no special official events, and fans are encouraged to refrain from visiting alternative service locations. The agency emphasized, "Please save your messages and feelings for WONWOO on Weverse as he fulfills his military duties." It is expected to be challenging for fans as they adapt to his absence.
This enlistment makes WONWOO the second SEVENTEEN member to serve. Joshua had previously enlisted on September 26, 2024, and is currently fulfilling his duty as a social service worker. Notably, S.COUPS has been exempted from military service due to injury, highlighting the varied circumstances affecting group members.
WONWOO's participation in military service echoes the tradition among South Korean male idols, where serving the country is seen as both an obligation and rite of passage. Many fans and fellow idols have expressed their support for him, hoping he returns even stronger. PLEDIS Entertainment stated, "We will continue to support WONWOO as he serves his country, and we appreciate the continued love and encouragement from CARATs."
WONWOO's enlistment signifies yet another milestone for SEVENTEEN, who remains one of the leading groups not just locally but globally. Their performances have garnered them considerable accolades, and the upcoming events highlight their unyielding connection with their fans, even when separated by duty.
For now, SEVENTEEN's activities continue, with the group gearing up for their performance at the "CARAT LAND" event. Fans eagerly await the show, but many will also find it difficult to accept WONWOO's departure from the stage. The group's bond with their members and fans will surely remain strong as they navigate this period.
With this announcement, WONWOO not only upholds his responsibilities as a South Korean citizen but also showcases the dedication he has as both an artist and individual. The saga of SEVENTEEN continues as they prepare to welcome back their member after his service, assuredly with open arms and much excitement. Fans can look forward to supporting him throughout this new chapter and eagerly anticipating his return to the entertainment world.