SEVENTEEN’s Jeonghan Begins Military Alternative Service as a Social Worker

SEVENTEEN member Jeonghan has officially enlisted in South Korea’s military as a social service worker in an alternative role. On Thursday, September 26, 2024, K-pop idol Yoon Jeong-han, widely known by his stage name Jeonghan, became the first member of the K-pop boy group SEVENTEEN to commence his mandatory military service.

Under South Korea’s military system, every able-bodied man aged 18 and over is required to serve in the military, which includes the Air Force, naval force, or the Army for a period ranging from 18 to 21 months. However, those with physical disabilities or mental health concerns may fulfill their military obligations through alternative service, which includes roles in post offices, welfare centers, and community service organizations as social service personnel.

According to Star News, a reputable South Korean media agency, Jeonghan is expected to complete his military duties in a social service capacity.

The specific reasons for his military assignment have not been disclosed to the public by his management agency, PLEDIS Entertainment.

Details on SEVENTEEN’s Jeonghan’s Military Enlistment and Message on Weverse

Prior to his enlistment, SEVENTEEN’s Jeonghan shared a heartfelt message with fans on Weverse on September 25, 2024, expressing his gratitude for their unwavering support.

“CARATS! It’s JEONGHAN. I will always be thankful to CARATs for their love and support during my activities with you all. Please eat well and sleep well. I’m confident you’re doing great, so don’t worry! CARATS, stay healthy, and I’ll see you again. I’ll be back safely! I love you~,” he stated.

He received warm wishes from fans and fellow SEVENTEEN members S.Coups, Jun, Wonwoo, and THE8 in response to his Weverse post.

On September 12, PLEDIS Entertainment confirmed Jeonghan’s military enlistment date to be September 26, 2024. They also clarified that no official event would be held on enlistment day and requested fans not to visit the enlistment site.

Furthermore, fans were encouraged to show their support for the artist through the fan community app Weverse.

PLEDIS stated:

“There will be no official event on the day of his enlistment, and we kindly ask you to refrain from visiting the site of his military service. Please express your heartfelt messages of support for JEONGHAN through Weverse.”

They continued:

“We kindly request your ongoing support for the artist. Please send your best wishes for his safe and healthy return. We remain committed to providing JEONGHAN with all necessary support during this time.”

Jeonghan’s Ankle Surgery

According to Star News on September 26, Jeonghan has indeed enlisted as a social service worker. In December 2023, the SEVENTEEN vocalist underwent surgery on his left ankle due to an injury.

While his management has not publicly disclosed the reasons for his alternative military service, it is speculated that his recent ankle surgery might have factored into this decision.

Notably, Jeonghan previously underwent surgery on his right elbow in June 2022 due to lateral epicondylitis and tendon damage. In related news, SEVENTEEN is set to make a musical comeback with their 12th mini album, titled SPILL THE Feels, on October 14, 2024.

However, Jeonghan will be unable to participate in the promotional activities for the album and will not partake in the upcoming world tour titled SEVENTEEN [RIGHT HERE] WORLD TOUR commencing in October 2024.

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