K-drama star and ASTRO's Cha Eun-Woo enlisting in South Korean military this July? Here's what fans should know

ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo, who is also a top K-drama actor, has officially applied to join the Republic of Korea Army's military band, with his enlistment potentially scheduled for July 2025. His agency, Fantagio, confirmed on May 9 that he has completed the interview process for the position. The final results are expected to be announced on May 29.

If accepted, Eun-woo will undergo basic training in July before beginning service in the military band, which is known for its ceremonial duties and musical performances. At 28, he would be the second ASTRO member to enlist, following MJ, who served from May 2022 to November 2023.


Despite the possibility of enlistment, Cha Eun-woo remains active in the entertainment industry. He is currently filming the Netflix series The Wonder Fools and is also set to appear in the upcoming movie First Ride.

If confirmed, Cha Eun-woo's enlistment will mark a meaningful chapter in both his career and his bond with fans as they prepare for his temporary departure.


Fans have shared mixed emotions about the news, expressing both pride and sadness online, especially on X (formerly known as Twitter).

One fan wrote, "Everything makes more sense now… him worrying Aroha would be bored in 2025, how badly he wanted to release the moon song, #Stargraphy being a full group show… I don’t even want to list the rest. He was telling us in his own way, and we just didn’t see it."


Another said, "What’s that about Cha Eun-woo enlisting in the army in July?"


One added, "He’ll always have our support, love, and heart! He’s assertive, we’ll be with him anywhere at any time! We’re not prepared for this news. We never would be. We’ll miss him for sure, but may the best be done for him, because he deserves nothing less!"



ASTRO will return to the stage with their first solo concert in three years, The 4th ASTROAD [Stargraphy], scheduled for June 7 and 8 at the Incheon Inspire Arena. This will be their first full-scale concert since The 3rd ASTROAD to Seoul [STARGAZER] in 2022.


The group is expected to deliver a powerful performance, showcasing their enduring synergy—alongside former member Rocky, adding to the excitement for fans.