Singer Jung Dong-won, 18, will head to the Marine Corps the moment he has his high school diploma in hand.
His agency Showplay Entertainment said on the 24th that Jung applied to the Marine Corps and was recently accepted. He is set to enter the Marine Corps recruit training center on February 23, 2026, to fulfill his mandatory service.
According to the label, the enlistment reflects Jung’s long-held personal wish. “We ask for your support and understanding of his decision,” the company said, adding that there will be no official send-off event and asking fans not to visit the site on enlistment day.
Born March 19, 2007, Jung is currently a senior in the Practical Music Department at Seoul School of Performing Arts and will enlist immediately after graduating.
Jung rose to national fame in 2020 on TV Chosun’s "Mr. Trot," finishing in fifth place, and has since stayed active with fan-favorite tracks.
He previously faced an investigation as a minor for driving without a license; the case concluded with a suspended indictment. Jung acknowledged the facts and issued an apology. With his decision to join the Marines right after graduation, fans are calling it a responsible move and wishing him a safe, healthy service.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)