MONSTA X sends off its last enlistee

MONSTA X / Captured from MONSTA X' social media

MONSTA X member I.M began his mandatory military service on Monday, marking the final enlistment among the group’s members and triggering a temporary halt to full-group activities.

I.M entered the Army Training Center, where he will complete basic military training before being assigned to an active-duty unit. With his enlistment, MONSTA X now has all members either currently enlisted or having completed South Korea’s compulsory military service requirement for able-bodied men.

In a message to the group's fans, collectively known as Monbebe, I.M said he felt grateful to have shared meaningful moments before leaving.

“I was so happy to greet Monbebe more closely as we recently started our world tour, and I feel relieved that I was able to make good memories before enlisting,” he said. “I will take good care of my health, complete my military service well and return safely. Until we meet again, I hope Monbebe also stays healthy in both body and mind, and continues to support the members’ activities. I love you, Monbebe.”

I.M is the youngest member of MONSTA X and the last to enlist, a milestone that fans have been anticipating with mixed emotions. While the group’s complete lineup will be unavailable for the time being, the agency said MONSTA X plans to continue connecting with fans through its ongoing world tour and other projects.

MONSTA X / Captured from MONSTA X' social media

Debuting in 2015, I.M has been a key creative force within MONSTA X, contributing to songwriting and composition work from the group’s earliest releases and helping define its musical identity. Known for his fluent English, he has also played a major role in the group’s global expansion.

In 2021, I.M became the first member of MONSTA X to launch a solo career. His debut solo album “DUALITY,” composed entirely of his own songs, showcased an introspective and atmospheric sound distinct from the group’s work. The album topped iTunes’ Top Albums charts in 18 regions and saw all of its tracks reach Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart, highlighting his international reach.

He further cemented his credentials with his first solo world tour, which spanned 18 cities across 10 countries

Most recently, I.M drew attention at MONSTA X’s “THE X : NEXUS” world tour concert in Seoul by unveiling the previously unreleased solo track “ERROR 404” on stage, reinforcing his reputation as an all-round artist.

Meanwhile, MONSTA X released a U.S. digital single, “growing pains,” on Friday, keeping momentum alive even as the group enters a military hiatus.

This article from Xportsnews is adapted by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.