It’s a bittersweet day for the K-drama community. Our favorite “Alchemy of Souls” star, Lee Jae-wook, has officially traded his scripts for a military uniform. On May 18, 2026, the actor quietly entered the recruit training center to begin his mandatory service. While we’re going to miss his incredible screen presence, we know he’ll come back stronger than ever!
Lee Jae-wook Military Enlistment Details
To keep you in the loop, here is a quick look at the actor’s enlistment timeline:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Actor Name | Lee Jae-wook |
| Enlistment Date | May 18, 2026 |
| Expected Discharge | November 2027 – Early 2028 |
| Agency | C-JeS Studios |
| Status | Active Duty Soldier |
| Last Project | Hong Rang (Netflix) |
Breaking Down the Enlistment Process
Lee Jae-wook and his agency ensured the transition was as smooth as possible for both the actor and the fans. Here is how it unfolded:
Step 1: The Official Agency Announcement A few weeks ago, C-JeS Studios released a statement confirming that Lee Jae-wook had received his enlistment notice. They asked fans for their continued support and love as he fulfills his national duty as a citizen of South Korea.
Step 2: Choosing a Private Entry In accordance with his wishes to avoid any safety issues, no official event was held at the training center. Lee Jae-wook entered the gates privately, accompanied only by close family and staff, sparing the site from large crowds of fans and media.
Step 3: The Final Message to Fans Before heading in, the actor shared a heartfelt post on social media. He expressed his deep gratitude for the fans who have supported him since his debut in Memories of the Alhambra and promised to return as a more mature and seasoned actor.
Step 4: Basic Training and Service Now, Lee Jae-wook will undergo five weeks of basic military training. Following the completion of this training, he will be assigned to a specific unit to serve out the remainder of his 18-month service as an active-duty soldier.
While we wait for his return, you can revisit his most iconic roles! Check out our guide to the best Lee Jae-wook K-dramas or see which other K-drama actors are returning from the military in 2026.
For a complete look at his award-winning filmography and career milestones, visit the Lee Jae-wook Wikipedia page.
We wish him a safe and healthy service. The countdown to his comeback has officially begun!
FAQs
When will Lee Jae-wook be discharged from the military?
Did Lee Jae-wook hold a fan meeting before enlisting?
Yes, he held a special fan meeting earlier this month to say a temporary goodbye to his supporters and share some final memories before his hiatus.
