Which EXO Members Are In The Military?

EXO's journey has had its share of ups and downs, and member departures definitely left a mark. Initially debuting with 12 members, the group saw three departures: Kris (Wu Yifan) in 2014, Luhan in 2014, and Tao in 2015. Each left due to contractual disputes and health concerns, which sparked massive debates among fans. It's wild how their exits reshaped EXO's dynamic—transitioning from 12 to 9 members, yet the group still dominated charts with bangers like 'Call Me Baby' and 'Monster.' Honestly, as someone who followed their early days, it felt like watching a phoenix rise from ashes. The remaining members carried forward with insane synergy, proving EXO's resilience. Even now, their OT9 performances hit differently, like a testament to sticking together through chaos. Those departures? Painful but oddly pivotal in their story.

The leader of GOT7, JB (also known as Jay B), enlisted on February 5, 2023. It was a bittersweet moment for fans, especially since he had been so active in the music scene right up until his enlistment. I remember following his solo work and collaborations closely—projects like his EP 'SOMO:FUME' and the track 'Switch It Up' with Sokodomo really showcased his versatility. His enlistment felt like a natural pause, but knowing how dedicated he is, I’m sure he’ll come back even stronger. The fandom rallied around him, sharing supportive messages and reminiscing about his leadership in GOT7, from their early days to their iconic performances. It’s wild how time flies; feels like just yesterday we were obsessing over 'Hard Carry' and now we’re counting down the days until he returns. Speaking of enlistments, it’s interesting how K-pop idols handle this phase. Some drop solo projects right before, like JB did, while others go quietly. GOT7’s members have been enlisting at different times, which keeps the fandom engaged—there’s always someone to celebrate or miss. Yugyeom’s been holding down the fort with his solo stuff, and Youngjae’s acting gigs are a fun distraction. But JB’s absence hits different because he’s the leader, you know? His energy on stage and in interviews is irreplaceable. I’ve been rewatching old GOT7 variety shows to fill the void—his chaotic humor in 'Real GOT7' never gets old.

EXO in 2023 is still one of those groups that feels like a warm hug to longtime fans, even with all the changes over the years. Right now, the active lineup includes Suho, Xiumin, Baekhyun, Chen, Chanyeol, D.O., Kai, and Sehun. It’s wild to think how far they’ve come since debut—I mean, Kai’s solo work slaps, and D.O.’s acting gigs? Chef’s kiss. The absence of Lay (Zhang Yixing) is noticeable since he’s been focusing on his solo career in China, but he’s still technically part of EXO under SM’s 'inactive but not departed' umbrella. Their group dynamic shifts a bit with military enlistments (looking at you, Baekhyun and Chanyeol), but the fandom’s loyalty is unshaken. I’ve got a soft spot for how they balance solo projects while keeping that EXO spirit alive. What’s cool is how each member brings something unique—Suho’s leadership, Chen’s vocals that could melt glaciers, Sehun’s chaotic energy. Even with fewer comebacks lately, their bond feels genuine, and that’s what keeps me invested. Plus, their discography? Timeless. I still loop 'Love Shot' like it dropped yesterday.

EXO has such a talented lineup, and it's no surprise several members have branched out into solo work! Chen was actually the first to debut solo back in 2019 with 'April, and a Flower.' His voice is pure magic—those ballads wreck me every time. Then there's Baekhyun, who dropped 'City Lights' the same year and totally owned the R&B scene. His later albums like 'Bambi' just solidified his status as a solo powerhouse. Lay (Zhang Yixing) has been killing it too, though his solo career started earlier in China with albums like 'Lose Control.' D.O. joined the solo squad in 2021 with 'Empathy,' and his warm, acoustic vibe feels like a hug. Kai brought the PERFORMANCE with his self-titled EP—those choreographies live in my mind rent-free. Suho went the rock route with 'Self-Portrait,' and Xiumin surprised everyone with 'Brand New' last year. Even Chanyeol's collaborated on solo tracks, though he hasn't released a full album yet. Honestly, watching them thrive individually while still reuniting as EXO? That's the dream.

EXO has been one of my favorite K-pop groups for years, and their members' real names are always fun to dig into because some stage names differ! The current lineup includes Suho (Kim Junmyeon), Xiumin (Kim Minseok), Lay (Zhang Yixing), Baekhyun (Byun Baekhyun), Chen (Kim Jongdae), Chanyeol (Park Chanyeol), D.O. (Do Kyungsoo), Kai (Kim Jongin), and Sehun (Oh Sehun). Former members like Kris (Wu Yifan), Luhan (Lu Han), and Tao (Huang Zitao) also had their unique stage names before leaving. What's interesting is how their real names reflect their personalities—like Kyungsoo's soft-spoken nature versus his powerful vocals, or Chanyeol's energetic vibe matching his given name. I love how their identities blend artistry and authenticity!

Oh, the EXO members' ages are something I've debated with fellow fans for hours! The youngest is definitely Sehun—our maknae who debuted at just 18 back in 2012. Watching him grow from that lanky kid in 'Mama' to the confident performer in 'Obsession' has been wild. He’s got this effortless coolness now, but I still crack up remembering his early variety show clumsiness. Fun fact: he’s actually older than some 4th-gen idols now, which makes me feel ancient! What’s fascinating is how Sehun’s role evolved. Initially just a sub-vocalist and main dancer, he’s now killing rap parts and even acted in dramas like 'Now We Are Breaking Up'. His solo song 'On Me' showed such mature vibes too. Makes you realize how time flies when you stan groups long-term—I still mentally categorize EXO as "new gen" sometimes before remembering they’re veterans.

Monsta X has had a few members enlist in the military over the past couple of years, and it's always bittersweet for fans. Shownu was the first to go—he enlisted back in July 2021 and completed his service in January 2023. Then Minhyuk followed, starting his mandatory service in November 2022. I remember watching their goodbye vlives and feeling so proud but also a little emotional. Kihyun enlisted in March 2023, and while I miss seeing him perform, I know he’ll come back even more amazing. The group’s been holding down the fort with the remaining members, and it’s been cool to see how they’ve adapted. Now, with Joohoney and I.M still active, Monbebes have gotten some great content to tide us over. It’s wild how time flies—soon enough, they’ll all be back together, and I can’t wait for that reunion stage. Until then, we’ve got their solo projects and older bops to keep us company.