Kim Dong Han of WEi to Begin Military Service on September 7

On Friday, August 9, WEi’s management company OUI Entertainment confirmed that member Kim Dong Han will begin his mandatory military service as an active duty soldier on September 7. The announcement marks the beginning of a new chapter for the artist, who has been a central figure in the six-member boy band since their October 2020 debut.

The Official Statement and Enlistment Details

OUI Entertainment’s Announcement

The agency released a formal statement expressing gratitude to WEi’s fanbase, known as RUi, before detailing the enlistment specifics. According to the Military Manpower Administration’s protocols, all able-bodied South Korean male citizens must fulfill their military obligation, and Kim Dong Han is now honoring this civic responsibility.

The enlistment will take place on September 7, with the soldier reporting as an active duty recruit. The statement emphasized that no public event will be organized on the enlistment date, citing safety concerns for the large number of military personnel and their families who would be present at the facility. OUI Entertainment made a deliberate request to RUi, asking fans to refrain from visiting the enlistment site in person to ensure the wellbeing of everyone involved in the process.

A Direct Message to Supporters

Beyond the official announcement, Kim Dong Han took a more personal approach by sharing a handwritten letter with his followers on Instagram. The message revealed the depth of his reflection on his career and his relationship with fans as he approaches this significant life transition.

A Heartfelt Farewell: Kim Dong Han’s Personal Letter

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Reflecting on His Journey

In his handwritten note, Kim Dong Han acknowledged the weight of his impending enlistment, writing that the reality of his military service was becoming increasingly tangible. He traced his career trajectory, describing how he looked back on the time that had elapsed since his initial meeting with RUi—the devoted fanbase that has supported him throughout his professional evolution.

The artist recounted the numerous stages and performances that defined his years with WEi, as well as the collective experiences shared between the six members and their fans. He openly addressed both the triumphs and difficulties he encountered, noting that there were joyful moments interspersed with periods of struggle and personal doubt.

Gratitude and Emotional Connection

Kim Dong Han attributed his ability to persevere through challenges directly to the unwavering support of RUi. He characterized his time as a professional artist not as fleeting days but as cherished memories he intends to treasure indefinitely. The letter conveyed deep appreciation for the fans’ presence during his performances and for allowing him to be part of their lives during this period of his career.

This emotional tone—balancing professional gratitude with personal vulnerability—showcased a side of Kim Dong Han that resonates beyond typical idol-fan relationships. His acknowledgment that being part of fans’ lives was a “great happiness and blessing” underscored the mutual investment between artist and audience.

Looking Forward from the Barracks

In a lighter moment within the letter, Kim Dong Han assured RUi that he would not cause concern during his military service. He pledged to maintain good health and nutrition while serving, even adding a humorous note to ease any worry fans might harbor. This balance of solemnity and humor demonstrated his intention to approach his mandatory service with both respect and resilience.

He encouraged RUi to prioritize their own wellbeing and happiness during his absence, hoping they would remain healthy and live fulfilling lives in their respective circumstances. The closing remarks reiterated his commitment to remembering every shared moment and the affection RUi had shown him over the years, with a promise to return as “an even better version” of himself.

Career Context: From Produce 101 to WEi

Born in 1998, Kim Dong Han’s entertainment journey began with his appearance on the survival competition show “Produce 101 Season 2.” The exposure from that platform led to his 2017 debut as a member of JBJ, a project group formed from participants of the show. This initial debut provided him with early industry experience and helped establish his fanbase.

However, his more stable and long-term group identity came through his October 2020 re-debut as a member of WEi under OUI Entertainment. The six-member ensemble has since built a dedicated following through consistent releases, performances, and engagement with RUi. Kim Dong Han’s role within the group—spanning vocals, performance, and visual appeal—contributed to WEi’s establishment in the competitive K-pop landscape.

What RUi Should Expect During His Absence

The standard duration for active duty military service in South Korea is approximately 18 to 21 months, depending on the specific military branch and assignment. While OUI Entertainment has not publicly announced the exact duration or specific military placement for Kim Dong Han, fans can anticipate his return sometime in late 2027 or early 2028.

During this period, WEi will likely operate as a five-member unit, with promotional activities and group projects adjusted accordingly. The group’s management will need to balance maintaining momentum and fan engagement while honoring the absence of one of its core members.

A Significant Milestone for K-pop

Kim Dong Han’s military enlistment represents a broader pattern within K-pop, where artists born in the late 1990s are beginning to reach the age when mandatory military service becomes mandatory. His transparent communication about this transition—through both official channels and personal correspondence—sets a respectful tone for how idols can acknowledge this fundamental civic responsibility while maintaining connection to their fanbase.

The letter exemplifies how established artists can use their platforms to express vulnerability and gratitude, turning a potentially bittersweet announcement into an opportunity for meaningful dialogue with supporters. OUI Entertainment’s careful handling of the logistics, combined with Kim Dong Han’s genuine emotional sharing, suggests a mature approach to managing what is ultimately a natural life progression for Korean entertainers.