EXO's Kai to Begin Mandatory Military Service Next Week

South Korean singer Kai from K-pop boy band EXO is set to begin his mandatory military service next week.

In a teary Instagram Live, the 29-year-old artist addressed his fans: “Today is the first day of me finding out about it as well, so please be understanding. I’ll smile from tomorrow onwards,".

"There’s so much that I had prepared. What a pity. That’s what’s upsetting. There’s nothing that I could do about this. I’m sad that I can’t show you what I prepared, but I can show you after I return,”.

“Although Kai had been preparing for Exo’s comeback later this year, due to recent changes in the law regarding military enlistment, Kai will be enlisting on May 11 to complete his basic training, after which he will begin working as a social worker,” EXO's management company, SM Entertainment said in a statement.

The agency added it would not be revealed the time and venue of the K-pop idol's enlistment to protect his privacy and there will be no special ceremony.

"There will be no special event on the day of, so we ask for the understanding of fans," the agency added.

South Korea requires military service for two years from all able-bodied men between the ages of 18 and 28. It revised the law in 2019 to let globally recognized K-pop stars delay signing up until 30.

In December 2020, the Korean National Assembly passed a motion (nicknamed the “BTS law”) to allow top K-pop stars to postpone service until age 30 with a recommendation from the culture minister.

All able-bodied men are required to serve in the military mainly due to the country remains technically at war with nuclear-armed North Korea.

Born Kim Jong-in, Kai debuted as a member of the popular nine-member band in 2012. He is known for his dance skills and for being an influential fashion figure.

Kai is also a part of SuperM, comprised of members from SM's various boy bands. He launched a solo career in 2020 with his album Kai and has since released three extended plays.

He has also starred in K-dramas such as "Choco Bank" (2016), "Andante" (2017), and "Spring Has Come" (2018).