Yeo Jin-goo announces military enlistment, vows to return ‘more mature and grounded’
Actor Yeo Jin-goo / Courtesy of Janus ENT
Actor Yeo Jin-goo, 28, announced his military enlistment through a handwritten letter to fans, expressing both gratitude and resolve as he prepares for a new chapter in life.
Yeo revealed his upcoming military enlistment in the letter during his “Blank Space” Asia fan meeting tour in Taipei on Sunday, held to mark the 20th anniversary of his debut.
“The time has come for me to step away briefly and begin a new experience,” he wrote. “Being able to see your faces, make eye contact and laugh together during this tour will remain a precious memory for me.”
He thanked fans for their unwavering support. “Your warm love and encouragement have kept me going. During this time apart, I promise to return as a stronger and more mature person — healthier in body and mind, and with deeper acting skills.”
Ending on a lighthearted note, Yeo asked fans not to be sad. “You have 30 dramas and 20 films to remember me by,” he wrote. “Whenever you miss me, please rewatch them while waiting. Will you wait for me? I’ll come back better than before. I love you.”
Yeo will hold his final fan meeting on Dec. 1 at Sky Art Hall in Seoul’s Gangseo District, where he is expected to announce the date of his military enlistment.
Yeo made his debut in the 2005 film “Sad Movie.” He later gained recognition for his performances in the dramas “Moon Embracing the Sun,” “The Crowned Clown” and “Hotel Del Luna,” as well as the films “Hwayi: A Monster Boy” and “Hijacking.” Most recently, he appeared in the Tving variety show “Great Escape: The Story.”
This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.