Lee Min-ho began his mandatory military service on May 12, 2017, serving as a public service officer at the Suseo Social Welfare Center in Gangnam District Office. He was unable to serve as a regular active duty soldier due to previous injuries. By April 2019, he will be released from the service.
Earlier in the year, officials from the agency denied media reports that said Lee was planning to start his service in March or April.
In South Korea, mandatory military service for male citizens is commonly referred to as conscription or the draft. The term "병역" (byŏngyŏk), which translates to "military service obligation," is also used. Additionally, the concept is sometimes referred to as "national service".
Military enlistment is required for every South Korean male, the reason being the continuous threat of war with North Korea. Hallyu Wave star Lee Min Ho will be serving his mandatory two years.
