What happens when a K-pop leader suddenly hits the pause button on their music career because of national duty? How do fans deal when their favorite idol leaves the stage? What does this all mean for the future of the boy band they helped build?
All of this will surround The KingDom’s leader Dan (Jeong Seung-bo), who is set to begin his compulsory military service on September 9 – earlier than expected, from issuing orders by the Military Manpower Administration.
K-pop enlistment often brings emotions that not only impact the artists themselves but millions of fans across Asia, and beyond.
So, let’s look at how the Asian music industry begins to prepare for its temporary goodbye, what this means for The KingDom, and what has fans so excited for his return.
2. Official Announcement
On September 4, 2025, The KingDom’s agency GF Entertainment issued an official statement that confirmed Dan’s enlistment. The statement said that Dan, the group’s commander, will be starting his military service obligation on September 9, 2025.
The agency acknowledged that Dan’s enlistment date had been notched up from the projection enlistment date on the basis of a letter from the Military Manpower Administration. GF Entertainment also indicated that for security and privacy reasons, the time and place of Dan’s entrance to the new recruit training center would not be disclosed.
Overall, this official announcement was shocking and emotional for the fans who were active in preparation for The KingDom’s next album and they received this announcement.
3. Impact on Group Activities
While Dan is serving the nation, The KingDom will continue as five for all promotions. This means the group can still provide activities, and maintain contact with their fans while Dan isn’t available, while also not stopping altogether.
GF Entertainment said in their official announcement that they apologize to the fans for the suddenness, disappointment and worry of the news, while also reassuring them the remaining members will promote and release music to keep The KingDom up and active in the K-pop industry.
4. Agency Statement Highlights
In a heartfelt letter, GF Entertainment began by expressing its sincere appreciation to fans for their continued love and support for The KingDom. The agency acknowledged the great influence that fan support has had on the group’s journey thus far, particularly at this transitional period.
They then requested that fans send warm encouragement and strength to Dan, as he embarks on this important chapter of his life. The agency stressed the importance of his role as both an artist and a citizen, and provided assurance that Dan will honorably fulfill his military service and safely return to the stage and group in good health.
5. About Dan
Dan (real name Jeong Seung-bo) is now 27 years old and is the current leader of The KingDom. He first started his K-pop career as a member of VARSITY before moving to The KingDom.
In 2021, Dan made his re-debut with The KingDom, assuming the role of leader and becoming the constant and creative leader for the group. Dan is known for his charm while on stage and for being conscientious off stage, becoming the anchor of The KingDom’s identity and growth.
6. History of the Group
Originally called Kingdom, the group formally named themselves The KingDom in April 2024, as a commitment to a new start and establishing their own identity in a generally busy K-pop scene.
The group’s immersive storytelling themes, often displayed in a fantasy-like manner, and overall intense performances have generated a following initially intrigued for the themes and performances, and many now keenly engaged as fans of The KingDom, an interested K-pop group that is different from many others, within a very competitive environment.
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7. Conclusion
As the enlistment date approaches, fans from every corner of the globe are uniting together to share their love, support, and well wishes on Dan’s safe and healthy return. Many messages of encouragement continue to flow in, evidencing the connection between artist and engaged fandom.
Conversely, The KingDom will continue to move ahead with five active members sharing their own activities and communicating with fans while Dan is absent. Dan’s military service may be a small bump in the road, but his day will come before we know it when he re-joins the stage with the KingDom on its next adventure.
