Shinhwa

Korean star Eric Mun becomes the first member of pop group Shinhwa to serve his mandatory military service. Over 300 supporters, including some oversea fans, bid farewell to the 29-year-old star before he was enlisted last Thursday (Oct 9) into Nonsan military training centre. Image by Newsen.

South Korean guys whose parents are both Koreans are required to join the army for 22-26 months (depending on enlisted units). If not mistaken they can choose to fulfil their duty in between the age of 20-30; most of the Korean stars are enlisted rather late though, as their careers are normally booming in early 20’s.

Four other members of Shinhwa, i.e. Dongwan, Junjin, Minwoo and Andy will be joining the army in the next two years, which literally means that Shinhwa could be in hiatus for up to four years. Hyesung is the only member exempted from military service due to medical condition.