Actor Yeo Jin-goo will officially begin his military service as a KATUSA soldier (Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army) on December 15, 2025, according to an official statement from his agency, J Full Entertainment.
The agency shared:
“Yeo Jin-goo has been selected to serve in the KATUSA unit starting December 15. Since the training center entrance ceremony will include many soldiers and their families, we ask that fans refrain from visiting the site. Please continue to send warm encouragement until the day he completes his duty and returns as a more mature person.”
The actor first revealed the news himself during his 20th debut anniversary Asia fan meeting tour “Blank Space,” which took place in Taipei last month.
In a handwritten letter read on stage, Yeo Jin-goo expressed gratitude and comfort to fans: “I’ll return as a stronger and more mature person. Don’t be sad — I’ve left you with many dramas and films to keep me close during this time apart.”
His emotional message quickly went viral among fans, who praised the star for his sincerity and humility. On November 1, he wrapped up his Seoul fan meeting, marking his final official schedule before enlistment.
Born in 1997, Yeo Jin-goo began his acting journey at just eight years old, debuting in the 2005 film Sad Movie. Since then, he has built one of the most respected filmographies among his generation of actors.
Yeo Jin-goo’s selection as a KATUSA reflects both his strong academic background and English fluency, making his enlistment particularly notable among fans.
KATUSA (Korean Augmentation to the United States Army) is a special branch of the Korean Army that works alongside the U.S. military stationed in Korea.
Established during the Korean War in 1950, it now stands as a symbol of U.S.–Korea military cooperation. KATUSA soldiers share facilities and work environments with U.S. troops, and candidates must pass an English proficiency test and go through a competitive lottery-based selection process organized by the Military Manpower Administration.
Yeo Jin-goo’s agency concluded their statement with warm words of appreciation: “We thank everyone who continues to support Yeo Jin-goo. Please wait for his return as he fulfills his national duty with sincerity.”
The actor will serve for approximately 18 months, after which he is expected to resume his career — likely stronger and more grounded than ever.
Sources: News1,Wikitree