Lee Jae Wook is preparing to step away from the spotlight as he begins his mandatory military service later this month.

On May 4, his agency confirmed that the actor will enlist on May 18 as an active-duty soldier. He will first enter a training center before officially carrying out his national defense duties, marking a temporary pause in his rapidly rising career.

Despite his upcoming hiatus, fans won’t have to miss him for long. Lee Jae Wook has already completed filming for multiple projects scheduled to air soon. His new drama Doctor on the Edge is set to premiere on June 1, where he takes on the role of a public health doctor. In addition, he will appear in the Netflix mystery horror series Dead-End Job, alongside Go Min Si, Kim Min Ha, and Lee Hee Joon.

Since his debut in Memories of the Alhambra in 2018, Lee Jae Wook has steadily built a strong reputation through standout performances in hits like Extraordinary You and Alchemy of Souls. His versatility and screen presence have made him one of the most promising actors of his generation.

Alchemy of Souls
Alchemy of Souls

As he prepares to fulfill his duty, anticipation is already building for his return. With a solid lineup of pre-filmed works and a growing global fanbase, Lee Jae Wook’s absence may be temporary—but his impact is expected to last well beyond his military service.

Sources: Daum | 디스패치