Credit: Kim Jong Hyeon’s social media

Kim Jonghyeon, known by his stage name JR and formerly a member of the boy group NU’EST, is currently fulfilling his mandatory military service.

Kim Jonghyeon will enlist as an active-duty soldier today. He will undergo five weeks of basic military training before being assigned to his unit, where he will serve for 18 months. His expected discharge date is March 22, 2026.

On the 19th of last month, his agency, Evermore Entertainment, announced his enlistment, stating that he would enter the military privately for safety reasons. The agency requested warm encouragement and support for Kim Jonghyeon as he fulfills his duty and hopes to return to good health.

During a recent live broadcast, Kim Jonghyeon expressed his determination: “The most important thing is to stay safe so that I will return healthy.” He held a solo fan meeting on the 31st of last month at Sungshin Women’s University, where he bid farewell to his fans.

Debuting in 2012 as a member of NU’EST, Kim Jonghyeon gained immense popularity with numerous hit songs, including “Hello,” “OVERCOME,” “Love Paint,” “Bet Bet,” and “Love Me.”

In 2017, NU’EST suspended its activities, and four members—Kim Jonghyeon, Baekho, Minhyun, and Ren—participated in the Mnet idol audition program Produce 101 Season 2, while Aron did not.

During Produce 101 Season 2, Kim Jonghyeon ranked first multiple times among the trainees but did not make the debut lineup just before the final live broadcast. He later returned to NU’EST, which officially ended its activities in 2022 when its contract with the agency expired.

Since NU’EST’s disbandment, Kim Jonghyeon has become a solo artist and actor. Fans eagerly anticipate his return, expecting him to return even more impressive after completing his military service.

>> Exclusive Interview: Kim Jonghyeon Talks Life After NU’EST + ‘Brilliant Seasons’ Solo Album

The post NU’EST’s JR Says Goodbye to Fans as He Enlists in the Army appeared first on ZAPZEE – Premier Korean Entertainment Magazine.