Stray Kids Member Lee Know Announces Mandatory Military Service for 2027
Lee Know becomes the first Stray Kids member to fulfill South Korea's military obligations.
1Enlistment Timeline Confirmed
JYP Entertainment announced that Lee Know, a member of the group Stray Kids, will begin his mandatory military service by the first quarter of 2027. As the eldest member of the eight-person act, the 28-year-old performer is the first from the group to initiate this required national service process.
2Impact on Group Activities
The agency stated that Lee Know will likely miss scheduled group activities during the first quarter of 2027 due to his enlistment. While his physical participation in group events will be limited, the label emphasized that he intends to remain connected with fans through various pre-recorded content and individual projects.
3Career Background Overview
Lee Know officially debuted with Stray Kids in 2018, serving as the group's main dancer. Over the years, he has contributed to numerous hit tracks, including 'God's Menu,' 'Back Door,' 'Maniac,' 'S-Class,' 'Chk Chk Boom,' and 'Thunderous,' establishing a significant presence within the K-pop industry since his initial group launch.
4Current Tour Commitments
Stray Kids is currently engaged in their 'Run It' world tour, which is scheduled to continue through March 7. The group is preparing for three upcoming performances at the Tokyo Dome starting this Friday. Additionally, the band plans to release their fourth Japanese EP, titled 'Suiatsu,' later this month.
5Agency Communication Strategy
JYP Entertainment released the announcement via the group's official social media channels on Thursday. The company acknowledged the surprise nature of the news and requested understanding from the fanbase. They noted that specific details regarding his departure remain unavailable at this time and will be provided through future official notices.
6Military Service Context
In South Korea, mandatory military service is a legal requirement for all able-bodied men, typically lasting around 18 to 21 months depending on the branch of service. For K-pop idols, this period often necessitates a hiatus from group activities, marking a significant transition point in their professional entertainment careers.
7Group Dynamics Evolution
Lee Know's enlistment marks a new phase for Stray Kids as they begin the cycle of members fulfilling their national duties. As the oldest member, his departure sets a precedent for the remaining seven members. Fans are now observing how the group will adjust its promotional strategies during this transition.
8Future Fan Engagement
Despite the upcoming service, the agency has promised continued engagement through pre-planned content. Fans are encouraged to look for further updates regarding the specific schedule and final activities before his enlistment. The group continues to maintain its global tour schedule and music releases leading up to the 2027 deadline.