Kyoungyoon, a former member of DKZ, has begun his mandatory military service.

On Monday, September 11, Kyoungyoon’s agency Dongyo Entertainment revealed that the singer had enlisted as an active-duty soldier in the army that same day.

According to the agency, it was Kyoungyoon’s personal wish to enlist quietly and diligently in the military. They then asked for the fans’ understanding for the lack of prior notice.

Moreover, Dongyo Entertainment also asked fans to send Kyoungyoon their warm support and wishes for good health as he fulfills his mandatory duties.

With this, the idol is expected to be discharged from the military in 2025.

Kyoungyoon leaving DKZ

Kyoungyoon’s military enlistment comes just a month after he left the group. 

At the start of the year, the former DKZ member received public criticism after being embroiled with the controversial JMS cult. Said cult was spotlighted in the 2023 Netflix documentary series In the Name of God: A Holy Betrayal.

The eight-part series released in March exposed four cult leaders and their dreadful practices. One of them was the JMS Church founded by its leader Jung Myung Seok.

As the series caused a stir online, viewers found out a long list of names and businesses allegedly run by JMS followers. One of the alleged affiliations include a cafe run by Kyoungyoon’s parents.

In response to the accusations, Kyoungyoon and his agency claimed that he was unaware of his parents’ ties with the infamous church. As per their statement, the family’s business immediately ceased operations following the controversy. Additionally, the family disclosed that they would not have any association with JMS in the future.

Following the controversy,  Dongyo Entertainment posted a notice in April to announce that Kyoungyoon will be taking a hiatus. Moreover, the agency explained that the idol is suffering from anxiety disorder and sociophobia. 

In August, Kyoungyoon returned with the sad news of him leaving the group. Through a handwritten letter, the singer opened up about his decision. 

“I spent time thinking a lot over the past five months. After thinking about the best choice for all the people I care about, I came to the conclusion that I should let DKZ‘s Kyoungyoon go.”

As he ended his message, he hoped the fans would understand his choice. He also wholeheartedly thanked them for loving and supporting his journey in the group. 

Featured image: Kyoungyoon updates fans with new photos. Credit: Instagram/Kyoungyoon