2025 is a big year for K-pop and K-dramas—because many well-loved Korean male celebrities are finishing their mandatory military service and coming back to fans.
If you’re new to K-entertainment, here’s the simple rule: in South Korea, most able-bodied men must enlist (usually before age 28). That means many idols and actors take a break for about 18–21 months, then return to music, dramas, and fan events.
Below are some of the biggest names expected to be discharged in 2025—plus what you can watch in the meantime.
EXO’s Kai and Sehun (Finally Together Again)
- Kai: Started service on May 11, 2023 (social service worker) → Expected discharge: February 10, 2025
- Sehun: Enlisted on December 21, 2023 (social service worker) → Expected discharge: September 20, 2025
Their return is extra exciting because it means every EXO member will have completed military service. Both are also known for acting, so fans are hoping for music and drama projects after they’re back.
BTS Returns in 2025 (Suga, RM, V, Jimin, Jungkook)
The biggest headline: BTS is set to reunite in 2025, as the remaining members finish service.
- Suga: Enlisted September 22, 2023 (social service worker) → Discharge: June 21, 2025
- RM: Enlisted December 11, 2023 (active duty) → Discharge: June 10, 2025
- V: Enlisted December 11, 2023 (military police) → Discharge: June 10, 2025
- Jimin: Enlisted December 12, 2023 (active duty) → Discharge: June 11, 2025
- Jungkook: Enlisted December 12, 2023 (active duty) → Discharge: June 11, 2025
While waiting, many fans are rewatching BTS concerts and documentaries, and catching V’s drama appearance in Hwarang.
Lee Do Hyun (A Fan-Favorite Actor Returning)
- Enlisted: August 14, 2023 (Air Force Military Band)
- Expected Discharge: May 13, 2025
He became a major rising star through strong performances in dramas like Youth of May and Sweet Home. If you like emotional acting and intense storylines, he’s one to watch closely after discharge.
Song Kang (Romance & Thriller Star)
- Enlisted: April 2, 2024 (active-duty soldier)
- Expected Discharge: October 1, 2025
He’s known for hit dramas and his time in variety/hosting too, so his comeback could be huge—especially for fans who miss seeing him on screen.
NCT Taeyong (Leader of NCT 127)
- Enlisted: April 15, 2024 (Navy)
- Expected Discharge: December 14, 2025
As a key leader and performer, fans are already looking forward to what NCT will do once he’s back. Note that Navy service is slightly longer (20 months) than the Army.
Kim Min Jae (Actor With Serious “Leading Man” Energy)
- Enlisted: September 18, 2023 (Army band)
- Expected Discharge: March 17, 2025
He’s loved for dramas like Do You Like Brahms? and Flower Crew: Joseon Marriage Agency. If you enjoy warm, comforting dramas, add his shows to your list.
Kim Min Gue (Kim Min Kyu) (Rising Star to Watch)
- Enlisted: April 1, 2024 (active duty)
- Expected Discharge: September 30, 2025
He’s been building a strong fanbase through drama roles (like Business Proposal) and variety appearances—so 2025 could be his next big step.
WOODZ (Cho Seung Youn) (Singer-Songwriter Comeback)
- Enlisted: January 22, 2024 (active duty)
- Expected Discharge: July 21, 2025
He’s known for unique vocals and strong stage presence, so fans are excited for new music and performances after he returns.
Who Are You Most Excited to See Back?
With so many popular idols and actors returning, 2025 is shaping up to be a comeback year for K-pop and K-drama fans. Now is the perfect time to catch up on their older albums, dramas, and variety shows—because once they’re discharged, the announcements will start coming fast.
