Cha Eun-woo enlists, Song Kang returns, Rowoon delays: Korea’s most striking actors swap military duties

From left, Cha Eun-woo, Song Kang and Rowoon / Xportsnews

Korea’s so-called “visual genius” actors are drawing attention as they take turns stepping in and out of military service.

Singer-actor Cha Eun-woo enlisted in the military on Monday. He entered the Army Training Center in Nonsan, South Chungcheong Province, and will serve in the military band after completing his basic training. His discharge is scheduled for January 2027.

Up until his enlistment, Cha kept busy with various activities, including fan meetings. His Netflix series “The Wonderfuls” and the film “First Ride” are also set to be released during his service.

Cha Eun-woo / Captured from Cha's social media

As Cha’s absence begins, fans and the public expressed their sorrow online, leaving comments such as “It’s finally happening,” “I already miss him,” “A national loss” and “The country should protect Cha Eun-woo.”

Still, some good news may help ease the disappointment: Song Kang, another top “visual genius,” will complete his military service and return to the public eye this October.

Song Kang, who enlisted in April last year as an active-duty Army soldier, is expected to be discharged in October. Attention is already turning to his post-military comeback. He was recently rumored to be in talks for a new drama titled “Four Hands,” in which he would play a piano prodigy. His agency, Namoo Actors, confirmed that the project is one of several he is currently reviewing.

Song Kang / Captured from Criminal Investigation Command Help Call

Meanwhile, Rowoon — another star known for his visuals — has also been in the spotlight for his delayed enlistment.

Originally scheduled to begin his military service on July 21, Rowoon’s enlistment was postponed after he received a reexamination notice (grade 7) during his physical evaluation. His agency, FNC Entertainment, stated that it could not disclose the specific medical reason due to privacy concerns.

Rowoon / Xportsnews

“Rowoon immediately filed an appeal for reevaluation and is scheduled to undergo another physical in early August,” the agency said. “He hopes to be cleared for active duty and begin his service without further delay.”

With Song Kang returning just as Cha Eun-woo enlists and Rowoon prepares to follow suit, the hiatus in Korea’s “visual genius” lineup of actors may be short-lived. Fans are already looking forward to seeing them return more mature after fulfilling their national duties.

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