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Lee Know’s Military Service: The Definitive Timeline For Stray Kids’ Lead Dancer

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The burning question for STAYs worldwide is whether an official military enlistment date has been announced for Stray Kids' Lee Know. As of today, December 14, 2025, there has been *no official announcement* from JYP Entertainment or the South Korean Military Manpower Administration (MMA) regarding the exact date when Lee Know (Lee Min-ho) will begin his mandatory service. This is a common situation for K-pop idols, whose agencies typically wait until closer to the legal deadline to make a formal public statement, often leaving fans to rely on the legal framework to determine the likely timeline. This article will break down the precise legal requirements, Lee Know’s specific age, and the current speculation to provide the most accurate and up-to-date prediction for his enlistment. The timeline is not a matter of "if," but "when," and understanding the South Korean military service law is key to knowing the window of time before we see the "Lead Dancer" take a temporary hiatus from the group.

Lee Know: A Quick Biography and Profile

Lee Know, born Lee Min-ho, is a prominent figure in the fourth generation of K-pop, known for his captivating stage presence, sharp choreography, and unique vocal tone. As the oldest South Korean member of the global sensation Stray Kids, his future enlistment is a major point of discussion among fans.
  • Stage Name: Lee Know (리노)
  • Real Name: Lee Min-ho (이민호)
  • Date of Birth: October 25, 1998
  • Birthplace: Gimpo, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea
  • Group: Stray Kids (SKZ)
  • Agency: JYP Entertainment
  • Positions: Lead Dancer, Sub Vocalist, Visual
  • Debut Date: March 25, 2018 (with Stray Kids' *I Am Not* EP)
  • TMI Fact: Before debuting, Lee Know was a backup dancer for BTS on their Japan tours and at various major music festivals.
  • Family: He is an only child.
  • Exempt Members: Fellow Stray Kids members Bang Chan and Felix are exempt from mandatory service due to their Australian citizenship.

The South Korean Military Enlistment Law Explained

To understand Lee Know’s military service timeline, it is essential to grasp the legal obligations placed upon all able-bodied South Korean men. The law dictates a clear age range for service, which directly impacts the career trajectory of K-pop idols.

Mandatory Service Age and the "BTS Law"

In South Korea, the Military Service Act generally requires all able-bodied men to perform mandatory military service between the ages of 18 and 28 (international age). This service typically lasts between 18 and 21 months, depending on the branch of the military. A significant change was introduced in 2020, often informally referred to as the "BTS Law." This amendment allows K-pop artists who have received a recommendation from the Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism to postpone their active duty until the age of 30 (Korean age), or the international age of 28. However, even with this postponement, the enlistment still must occur before the idol turns 29 (international age).

Lee Know’s Legal Deadline: Why 2027 is the Key Year

Lee Know was born on October 25, 1998. Based on the current South Korean military law, he must complete his service before he turns 29 years old (international age). * 2026: Lee Know will turn 28 years old on October 25, 2026. * 2027: He must enlist *before* his 29th birthday, which is October 25, 2027. Therefore, the latest possible time for Lee Know’s military enlistment is late 2026 or early-to-mid 2027. This makes him the first South Korean Stray Kids member expected to enlist. The actual date will depend on JYP Entertainment's strategic planning for the group's activities.

The Projected Enlistment Order for Stray Kids

The Stray Kids members' enlistment will be staggered, starting with the oldest Korean member. This process is crucial for JYP Entertainment to manage the group's global activities and minimize the impact of the hiatus.

The Enlistment Order Based on Birth Year:

1. Lee Know (1998): As the oldest Korean member, he is expected to be the first to enlist, likely in 2027. 2. Changbin (1999): Born August 11, 1999, Changbin would follow Lee Know, with his deadline being before his 29th birthday in 2028. 3. Hyunjin, Han, and Seungmin (2000): These three members, all born in the year 2000, would likely enlist in a similar timeframe, with a deadline before their 29th birthdays in 2029. 4. I.N (2001): The *maknae* (youngest member) of the group, I.N, would be the last to enlist, with his deadline extending until 2030. This staggered approach is a well-established strategy in the K-pop industry, ensuring that the group can continue to release music and perform with a rotating lineup of active members, maintaining the *Stray Kids* brand presence.

What Does Lee Know’s Enlistment Mean for Stray Kids’ Future?

The looming reality of military service is a major factor in the music industry, but it does not signal the end of a group. In fact, it often marks a new phase of creative output and strategic planning.

Pre-Enlistment Activities and Content

In the years leading up to an idol’s enlistment, agencies typically ramp up activities. This often includes releasing multiple albums, conducting massive world tours, and filming substantial amounts of pre-recorded content (like variety shows, reality series, and vlogs) to be released during the idol's service period. Fans can anticipate a flurry of Stray Kids content, including potential solo projects for Lee Know, to ensure his presence is felt even while he is away.

The Group's Dynamics During Hiatus

With Bang Chan and Felix being Australian citizens and therefore exempt from South Korean conscription, the group will not have to face a complete hiatus. The remaining six members, including the three 2000-liners and I.N, will form a sub-unit to continue activities. This is a crucial strategy to maintain the group's momentum and keep the fanbase engaged. The temporary absence of Lee Know will undoubtedly be felt, but the power of the remaining members, along with the rich pre-recorded content, will sustain the group until his return.

The Anticipated Return

When Lee Know finishes his 18-21 months of service, his return will be a massive event, often coinciding with a major comeback album and world tour. The anticipation for a full group reunion is a powerful motivator for both the group and the fandom. While the exact date is still years away, the eventual return of Lee Know (Lee Min-ho) will be a celebratory moment for STAYs globally. In conclusion, while there is no current official date, all signs point to Lee Know’s military enlistment occurring in 2027. This timeline allows Stray Kids to continue their global expansion for the next few years before the inevitable shift in their lineup.
when is lee know going to the military
when is lee know going to the military

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