If you’ve been a fan of Alchemy of Souls, brace yourself — the charming and impossibly talented Lee Jae Wook is heading to the military, and the K-drama world is already feeling the void.
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It’s Official: Lee Jae Wook Enlists on May 18, 2026
His agency log studio confirmed to Ilgan Sports that Lee Jae Wook will formally enlist as an active duty soldier on May 18, 2026. Born in 1998, the actor has reached the age for mandatory military service — a requirement for all able-bodied South Korean men — and will be away for a total of 18 months. No details about his training base or a public send-off ceremony were shared. Based on this timeline, fans can expect his discharge around November 2027.
Lee Jae Wook’s Journey to Stardom
| Year | Drama / Project | Role/Milestone |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Memories of the Alhambra | Acting debut (supporting) |
| 2019 | Extraordinary You | Breakthrough role |
| 2020 | When The Weather Is Fine | Rising star recognition |
| 2022–23 | Alchemy of Souls | International fame |
| 2026 | Doctor on the Edge | Final project before enlistment |
From a supporting debut in Memories of the Alhambra to becoming a household name worldwide with Alchemy of Souls, Lee Jae Wook’s rise has been nothing short of spectacular. He also appeared in Search: WWW, When The Weather Is Fine, and Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol along the way, steadily building a loyal global fanbase.
One Last Gift Before He Goes
Before he trades in his scripts for a uniform, fans have one more project to look forward to. Lee Jae Wook stars in Doctor on the Edge, releasing June 1, 2026, where he plays a former plastic surgeon now working as a public health doctor, co-starring Shin Ye Eun. Consider it his farewell gift to fans — and knowing his track record, it’s going to be a good one.
For more updates on K-drama releases and your favourite Korean stars, TechnoSports has all the latest entertainment coverage.
What This Means for Fans?
An 18-month hiatus from one of K-drama’s most magnetic actors is genuinely tough news. But this is a proud and deeply personal chapter for Lee Jae Wook — fulfilling his national duty with the same quiet dignity he brings to every role. The K-drama world will be waiting right here when he returns. Keep an eye on TechnoSports for his discharge date and comeback updates.
FAQs
Q: When will Lee Jae Wook be discharged from the military?
Based on his May 18, 2026 enlistment as an active duty soldier for 18 months, he is expected to be discharged around November 2027.
Q: What is Lee Jae Wook’s last drama before his military enlistment?
His final project before enlisting is Doctor on the Edge, set to premiere on June 1, 2026, co-starring Shin Ye Eun.
