NCT leader Taeyong officially began his military service on March 18th, 2024, becoming the first member of the group to enlist, signalling the start of NCT’s mandatory military enlistments. Taeyong joined the Navy as an active-duty soldier.
Now, fans were taken by surprise when it was announced that NCT’s Jaehyun will be enlisting in November 2024. As a 97-liner, many expected Jaehyun’s enlistment to happen later, so the news came unexpectedly.
Military enlistment can be an emotional topic for K-Pop fans. Idols are required to step out of the public eye for a lengthy period, and this absence can also affect the group’s activities, leading to big changes for fans who have been following them closely.
Following the news about Jaehyun, fans were given another little jolt when NCT’s Haechan hinted at his own future enlistment.
NCT DREAM is currently on The Dream Show 3: DREAM()SCAPE TOUR, and they recently wrapped up the U.S. leg of the tour with a final concert in Chicago. At the end of the concert, the members shared their heartfelt thoughts with the audience, reflecting on their experience during the tour. Jeno took the opportunity to thank his fellow members for their hard work throughout the journey.
However, a moment involving Haechan during this speech has since gone viral. In the clip, Haechan is seen saluting while Jeno speaks, seemingly as a playful response to his words. Interestingly, he was the only member to make this gesture at that time, and while it’s not unusual for Haechan to joke around, the timing of this salute had fans feeling a bit "stressed," especially in light of Jaehyun’s recent enlistment news.
Though Haechan’s salute was done in good humour, it’s clear that enlistment is a growing reality for NCT’s South Korean members.
We hope that all the NCT boys, especially the South Korean members, serve well and return safely and in good health. Fans will undoubtedly wait for them, eagerly anticipating the day when they can be reunited as one once again!
