​​NCT Leader Taeyong Sparks Speculation of 2024 Military Enlistment 

All the best Taeyong!
By: Iffah Salleh
September 29, 2023

In a recent update on his fan club app, NCT’s Taeyong left fans speculating about his potential military enlistment in 2024.

 The beloved leader of the group took to the platform, Bubble, a platform where artists can connect with their fans, on 27th September to share his thoughts on his future plans while expressing his deep affection for both his fellow group members and devoted fans. 

Taeyong’s messages to fans hint at a significant chapter in his life as he contemplates his military enlistment in 2024. As fans eagerly await further developments, they continue to express unwavering support for their beloved leader, ready to stand by him on this potential new journey.

Taeyong’s Bubble Message

Below is Taeyong’s message on ‘Bubble’:

“I need to work really hard this year.

“To our manager who told us when we just debuted that there is no meaning to a team that is not in first place, and to my teacher who told me today in Malibu that if NCT is not successful it’s all my fault…

“At this very moment, this very year, I plan to pour my everything into it as the leader.

We are 7 years into our career and to be honest, I felt a lot of burden on my shoulders. But I plan to give myself the largest baggage and burden [this year].

“I also want to try to prove that all of this is possible because of my members. I plan on working hard to bring out the best expectations and energy from all my members.

“Because our NCT is very systematic, it makes you support more individual members and it can’t be helped that your attention is focused on more noticeable members.

“But at least for this time, I wish there would be many of you who love and support all of us.

The reason why I am saying this is because when I would talk with my members or hear them talk with other members, these things would hurt my heart the most.

“I honestly think this year will be really difficult without your support. Is this a dilemma faced by 7 year [idols]?”

Taeyong’s Journey with NCT 

Taeyong’s journey with NCT has been nothing short of remarkable. As the group’s leader, he has played a pivotal role in shaping NCT’s identity and music. 

From their debut days to international stardom, Taeyong has been at the forefront, captivating fans with his charisma and talent. His potential military enlistment marks a significant milestone in his career and life.

The Mandatory Military Service in South Korea 

In South Korea, military service is a compulsory duty for all able-bodied men aged between 18 and 28. The service typically lasts around 18 to 21 months, depending on the branch of the military. This mandatory enlistment serves as a rite of passage for South Korean men, fostering a sense of duty and patriotism.

Impact on NCT and Fans Taeyong’s potential enlistment has left fans wondering how NCT’s activities will be affected. While the group has faced member rotations in the past, the absence of a leader can pose unique challenges. 

Fans, often referred to as NCTzens, have expressed both understanding and sadness at the prospect of Taeyong’s temporary departure. The strong bond between K-pop idols and their fans has been a defining feature of the genre.

SM Entertainment’s Response 

As of now, SM Entertainment has not released an official statement regarding Taeyong’s military enlistment plans. The agency is known for respecting the decisions of its artists when it comes to military service, and fans await any further updates from both Taeyong and the company.

As a result, Taeyong’s messages have quickly spread across social media, causing a stir among NCT enthusiasts.

Recently, NCT 127 unveiled a captivating three-part documentary on Disney Hotstar. Delving into their childhood stories through art, the documentary features plays, animations, and performances.

Care to take a stroll down memory lane? Explore the nostalgic journey with NCT 127.

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