Super Junior's Donghae recently released an update through his official Instagram account for his fans, a year after his enlistment in the army. Every diehard ELF would know that Super Junior has only four (4) active members: Leeteuk, Heechul, Yesung and Kyuhyun. The rest are currently inactive, with most of them having enlisted for each of their own military services, which is mandatory for males between the ages of 18 and 35.

With most of the Super Junior members inactive, one can only imagine the wide gaps that they have left on their fans' hearts, fans that are dearly missing their idols and are passionately awaiting their return. So getting an update from Donghae himself would definitely bring joy to the fans. What makes it even more special is the fact that Donghae had made the update on October 15th, which is not only marks his first year enlistment anniversary but his birthday as well!

Donghae's letter was written in Korean but here is a translated version, courtesy of Allkpop:

"ELF, how are you doing??!!

It's Super Junior's Donghae. Today is October 15th, my birthday, and also 1 year since I enlisted. Now that I look back, it's already been 1 year since I told ELF, I'll be back soon!! Every day, I think about when I'll see you again and I get excited. When I first enlisted, everything was something I was experiencing for the first time, so I thought a lot and worried if I could do well, but now I think I'm really doing well!! ^^ I'm doing well with all the love ELF are sending me, so don't worry!! We'll meet soon, so wait just a little longer!! Don't get sick!!

I'll be back healthily.

I love you, ELF.                         

2016.10.15

To ELF on my birthday and 1 year anniversary since enlisting.

Lee Donghae"

Fellow Super Junior Heechul also took the opportunity to poke fun at Donghae commenting on how his handwriting has improved and he is now able to read them.

Now while fans are patiently waiting for their idols to come back, another Super Junior member had just recently enlisted on October 11. Kim Ryeowook will be training for 5 weeks followed by 21 months of service as an active duty soldier.

According to OfficiallyKMusic, about 200 fans gathered to support the singer on his enlistment and bid their goodbyes. Fellow Super Junior Leeteuk was also there to show his support and represent the group.  

With Ryeowook's enlistment, Kyuhyun will be the last member of Super Junior to enter the Mandatory Military Service and he may be doing that this coming 2017.