Big Bang’s T.O.P and JYJ’s Junsu confirmed they will be enlisting on Thursday, February 9.
Both singers will enlist to the Chungnam Nonsan Army Training Center for four weeks of basic training before they begin work as conscripted policemen. It’s been reported that T.O.P will participate in the army band and Junsu will serve in the promotional unit for the Gyeonggi Southern Police.
For those unfamiliar with South Korea’s conscription customs, all male Korean citizens aged between 18 and 35 are required to submit for mandatory military service. Normal military service ranges from 21 to 24 months, depending on the branch of service, though non-active duty service can last as long as 36 months.
Unfortunately for fans of male idol groups, celebrities are not exempt from conscription. It is typical for idols (as they are called in Korea) to greet their fans a final time before enlisting, but reports say Junsu will be enlisting privately. T.O.P has yet to make a decision on how he wishes to part with his fans.
Their military enlistment will mark a hiatus on their careers, though both men are wrapping up a successful year. Junsu promoted as a soloist with studio album, Xignature, which released May 30, and went on several tours throughout 2016. T.O.P spent a majority of the past two years touring for Big Bang’s MADE album promotions and has also kept busy with filming the German-Chinese film, Out Of Control.
#Peace.Love.Enlistment
