Stray Kids member Lee Know is set to become the first member of the K-pop boy group to fulfill his mandatory military service, with his enlistment scheduled for the first quarter of 2027.
His agency, JYP Entertainment, confirmed the news in an official announcement on Thursday, November 5, 2026.
According to the agency, Lee Know may be unable to participate in some of the group's activities scheduled for the first quarter of next year due to his upcoming military service.
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However, the 28-year-old idol will continue to connect with fans, collectively known as STAY, through various content and individual activities before his enlistment.
"We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all STAY for your unwavering love and support throughout Stray Kids’ journey since their debut.
"Lee Know is scheduled to fulfill his mandatory military service in the first quarter of 2027. As a result, he may be unable to participate in some of the activities scheduled for the first quarter of 2027.
"However, prior to his enlistment, he will continue to connect with STAY through various content and individual activities.
"We understand that this news may come as a surprise to many STAY, and we appreciate your kind understanding.
"We hope you will continue to show your unwavering love and support for Lee Know and Stray Kids in their upcoming activities," JYP Entertainment said in its statement.
Lee Know vows to fulfill military duty
During a press conference in August for the release of the group's mini-album THIS & THAT, Lee Know previously shared his thoughts on fulfilling his military obligation.
He expressed his willingness to serve when called upon and reassured fans that Stray Kids would reunite after the members' military hiatus.
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At the time, he said, “I think fulfilling our national defense duty is only natural. If I’m called up, I will faithfully carry out the duty assigned to me.
“What’s certain is that we will come together again after the military hiatus.”
Under South Korean law, able-bodied men are generally required to complete mandatory military service before turning 30.
Depending on their branch of service, the required period ranges from 18 to 21 months.
According to Republic of Korea Military Manpower Administration, the country's conscription system is in place as South Korea remains technically at war with North Korea, following the 1950–1953 Korean War, which ended in an armistice rather than a peace treaty.
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Lee Know, whose real name is Lee Min Ho, debuted with Stray Kids in 2018 alongside fellow members Bang Chan, Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix, Seungmin, and I.N.
The Billboard-charting group is known for hit songs such as “MANIAC,” “God’s Menu,” “CASE 143,” “S-Class,” and “Chk Chk Boom.”
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