Baekho, the former main vocalist of boy band NU'EST, enlisted in the South Korean Army on Monday, entering the Nonsan Army Training Center in South Chungcheong Province.
The 30-year-old singer, whose real name is Kang Dong-ho, will undergo basic military training before beginning active duty service as an Army soldier. His agency, Prismfilter, did not hold a separate official enlistment event and asked fans to refrain from visiting the training center, as it hosts many soldiers and their families.
In a statement released before his enlistment, Prismfilter asked for the public's support for Baekho as he fulfills his military obligation.
"We ask for your warm encouragement and continued love until the day he fulfills his duty to the nation and returns in good health," the agency said.
Baekho made his final public appearance on the morning of his enlistment, when he joined MBC FM4U's morning radio show "Good Morning FM with Tei." During the broadcast, he discussed his feelings about entering the military.
"I couldn't sleep well. It feels like I only slept halfway," Baekho shared with DJ Tei. "Even while sleeping, I kept thinking, 'I should sleep more deeply.'"
The singer spoke positively about his readiness for military training, saying he was not worried about the physical demands ahead. However, he joked about what would happen after basic training ends.
"The only thing that concerns me is that after training, I'd like to go home, shower, and sleep, but they won't let me go home," he said with a laugh.
DJ Tei praised Baekho's mental strength for appearing on a broadcast on his enlistment day. Baekho responded by explaining that he wanted to fill his schedule completely before leaving.
Baekho debuted with NU'EST in 2012 and became known for his powerful vocals. He has also pursued solo activities and acting since NU'EST's group activities were put on hold. Earlier this year, in March, he departed from his longtime agency, Pledis Entertainment, after 13 years and signed with Prismfilter. Under his new label, he released a single album called "Rush Mode" in November 2025.
Fans can send messages of support to Baekho through Weverse, the agency said.
