CHA Eun Woo of the boy group ASTRO becomes the latest K-pop idol to begin his mandatory military service, joining the South Korean Army’s brass band.

The 28-year-old singer and actor enlisted in the military on Monday, July 28. 

In a statement released by Korean media outlet Soompi, Fantagio, Cha’s agency, said that he will undergo basic military training first before serving in the military band.

While there were no separate events held for Cha’s enlistment, his fellow ASTRO members MJ, JinJin, and Yoon San Ha, along with Rocky and Weki Meki’s Choi Yoojung, sent him off.

Their group photos were posted on Cha’s official account on X (formerly Twitter).

“We share Eun Woo’s message that he will take care and return safely. Let’s wait together until the day we meet again,” the post read, as translated by Google.

Photos and videos of the K-pop idol entering the military and doing a salute have circulated online.

Before this, Cha held a farewell party and a YouTube live broadcast, where he sported a buzz cut for his military enlistment. He said goodbye to his fans and promised them that he would take care of himself and return safely.

He also shared photos of himself with his new haircut on Instagram, using a salute emoji as a caption.

Fantagio earlier asked the fans for their “unsparing support and warm encouragement” for Cha, as he fulfills his mandatory military service. He is expected to return in 2027, according to reports.

About Cha Eun Woo

Cha debuted as a member of ASTRO in 2016 with the release of the group’s extended play (EP), “Spring Up.”

ASTRO is known for their hit songs “Candy Sugar Pop,” “All Night,” “Crazy Sexy Cool,” and “Blue Flame,” among others.

Cha debuted as a solo artist with his “ENTITY” EP in February 2024. He also released his collaboration single with singer-songwriter Peder Elias, “Hey Hello,” in the same year.

The South Korean heartthrob is also known for his acting skills, starring in several Korean dramas, such as “Hit the Top,” “My ID is Gangnam Beauty,” “True Beauty,” and “A Good Day to Be a Dog.”

Cha last visited the Philippines in March 2024 for his “Just One 10 Minute [Mystery Elevator]” fan concert at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.