One simple change is all it took.
A popular K-Drama actor’s appearance change after enlisting in the military has become a hot topic on social media.
The actor in question is Kim Young Dae, best known for his roles in K-Dramas like Extraordinary You, Shooting Stars, and Dear X.
When most celebrities join the military for their mandatory service, they undergo a drastic visual change after shaving their hair into that signature military buzz cut. But in the case of Kim Young Dae, he apparently didn’t have to stick to that basic look.
During a recent military event, the actor was seen sporting a modern tapered side part—a hairstyle he has worn for the first time in his career.
That Side Profile.. 🫠
Salute!! 🫡https://t.co/rs1LmNXh8q pic.twitter.com/xH2IEE1hzs— JJaeyumi00s 🌸 (@JJaeyumixx) October 5, 2026
This small change made such a significant difference in Kim Young Dae’s appearance that many fans couldn’t recognize him at first glance. The look quickly went viral on social media, with netizens urging the actor to keep his hair the same even after his discharge from the military.
Kim Youngdae is probably the only Korean celeb i have seen get finer in the military 😭😭he should def keep that hair. pic.twitter.com/fXLL6AmxU3
— KimBratz❤️ (@tommiez12) October 6, 2026
Kim Young-dae needs to stay FAR away from his usual haircut & maintain THIS bc the hair theory is REALLL. I’ve just been on TT reposting all his edits 😮💨🫦 pic.twitter.com/Ps4J0LmDfb
— Kay 🪻 (@tvdramaks) October 5, 2026
I think we finally figured out what was missing with Kim Young-dae because this hairstyle suits him so much he looks ridiculously good
When he comes back from the military, I need him to keep this hair. Korea please let the bangs go and give the men hairstyles like this instead… pic.twitter.com/M7xc7PRdnZ
— Age (@Victoriazuhv) October 5, 2026
That’s young dae? I’m never ready for this! Mama he looks so freaking good….😭😭😭😭 https://t.co/qBPEolLgYp
— Bhoomi . ✧ · ❤︎. 256th note : (@closerot7) October 6, 2026
Not collectively but Kim Young-dae should def keep this look https://t.co/gHSZ55t6iq
— Lesego° (@__sego_) October 5, 2026