According to News1 on December 15, Yeo Jin-goo was selected as a KATUSA (Korean Augmentation to the United States Army) soldier and will serve for approximately one year and six months starting today.
Earlier, his agency J Full Entertainment released an official statement regarding this. 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.”
On December 14, a day before enlistment, Yeo Jin-goo updated fans through Instagram by posting a photo after cutting his hair short. Sitting on the floor in a black short-sleeved T-shirt, he saluted the camera, with a cake placed in front of him to mark the occasion. What especially caught fans’ attention was a heart shape made from his cut hair on the floor, with his name written inside it—an image widely praised for its warmth and “sense-filled” creativity.
The actor first revealed the news himself during his 20th debut anniversary Asia fan meeting tour “Blank Space.”
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
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