Popular South Korean actor Lee Jae Wook has officially commenced his mandatory military service, marking the beginning of a temporary hiatus from the entertainment industry.
The official announcement and his personal updates have garnered significant attention from fans and media outlets worldwide, who are sending their best wishes for his safety and health during his time away.
A Heartfelt Farewell and a New Look
On May 17, 2026, just one day prior to his formal enlistment, Lee Jae Wook took to his personal Instagram account to share a final update with his followers.
The social media post featured a photograph of his newly shaved head, debuting the standard military-ready buzz cut.
Along with the image, the actor attached a brief but heartfelt message for his global fanbase, writing,
“I will return in good health.”
The personal update served as a comforting reassurance to millions of fans who have closely followed his rapidly rising career since his debut.
Following this final farewell, Lee Jae Wook officially entered his assigned military training center on May 18, 2026.
At the training center, the actor will undergo several weeks of foundational basic military training.
This initial period is designed to acclimate new recruits to military life, covering rigorous physical conditioning, tactical exercises, and discipline drills.
Upon the successful completion of this preliminary training phase, Lee Jae Wook will receive his official assignment to serve out the remainder of his mandatory service period as an active-duty soldier.
The actual enlistment date follows an initial announcement made earlier in the month.
In early May 2026, Lee Jae Wook’s agency and representatives first confirmed the specific timeline for his upcoming service, giving fans time to prepare for his temporary absence.
Despite the looming enlistment, the actor remained highly productive throughout the preceding months, ensuring that audiences would have new content to appreciate while he fulfills his civic duties.
One Last Project Before His Hiatus
Most notably, Lee Jae Wook is currently gearing up for the premiere of his highly anticipated romantic television series, “Doctor on the Edge,” which will broadcast on the ENA network.
The upcoming medical romance drama has already generated substantial buzz through a series of teasers and production previews.
The narrative follows Lee Jae Wook’s character, a dedicated medical professional who is sent to provide care on a remote island that few others wish to visit.
The storyline chronicles his character’s journey as he navigates high-stakes medical emergencies and a developing romance with a co-star played by actress Shin Ye Eun.
Teasers released ahead of his enlistment highlight a compelling dynamic where Shin Ye Eun’s character gradually breaks down the walls of Lee Jae Wook’s guarded persona, creating immense anticipation for their on-screen chemistry.
As Lee Jae Wook steps away from the camera to serve his country, fans can look forward to the broadcast of “Doctor on the Edge” to bridge the gap during his absence.
The global entertainment community continues to extend their warmest thoughts, wishing him a safe, successful, and healthy term of military service until his eventual discharge and return to acting.