The era of ”military idols” sets a new standard for K-POP

The saying "If you go to the military, your fans will leave" is no longer valid. Recently, K-pop boy groups have seen a surge in "military idols" who have completed their military service and are showing off their mature looks.
The group is standing in front of the fans. Groups such as BTS and MONSTA X, all of whom have completed their military service, are resuming activities one after another, and new members who have completed their military service since their debut are also
A new trend is being formed, with even members appearing. [BTS and MONSTA X have finished their military hiatus... AHOF member Seo Jung-woo is a "military rookie"]
A typical example is "BTS". All seven members have completed their military duties after SUGA was discharged last month, and they are planning to release a new album and work together in early 2026.
Just a few years ago, there were concerns that he would lose his fandom after completing his military service. However, the results were the opposite. As soon as he was discharged, the fandom responded more enthusiastically,
"BTS" has returned with unity as a weapon and has become a symbol of the "military idol era". "MONSTA X" has also completed its military service, and will be in Seoul for the Olympics until the 20th.
The group will hold a solo concert "CONNECT X" to celebrate their 10th debut anniversary at KSPO Dome in Seoul. This will not be a simple comeback stage, but a new theme song to commemorate the time that has passed.
It was a symbolic performance for Captor. They will release a teaser for their new album in September and are set to resume full-scale activities. Recently, there have been many "military rookies" who have already completed their military service and are making their debut.
Seo Jung-woo, a member of the group "AHOF" that debuted on July 1, is a case where he successfully debuted after completing his military service as a sergeant and going through a survival audition program.
The appearance of a new recruit who can simultaneously convey image, responsibility, and trustworthiness is drawing positive reactions from the fandom and the public. [Continuity, not severance...fandom loyalty also increases]
The agency is not treating the military service period as a simple blank period, but as a time for planning and management, and is making thorough preparations.
The strategy of maintaining long-term communication and a strong presence through letters, video messages, SNS activities, etc. has become the industry standard.
This kind of systematic management of the military hiatus has gone beyond simply filling time and has transformed the situation into a "story of growth." The comeback after discharge is also a "
This will be remembered as a "re-debut," strengthening the continuity of the story. Idols who have completed their service will return to the stage with a stronger mentality and a more mature attitude, and will further strengthen the loyalty of their fandom.
An entertainment agency source said, "We are now in an era where idols who have completed military service are not simply seen as having a hiatus, but as someone who has a premium story to tell."
"The point is an opportunity for strategic brand renewal, and maturity and responsibility are acting as key elements to strengthen the idol image."