Astro’s Cha Eun-woo begins military service with Army band assignment

Cha Eun-woo, a member of K-pop group Astro and a popular actor, officially began his mandatory military service on July 28, entering a boot camp in Nonsan, South Chungcheong. After completing five weeks of basic military training, he will serve in the Republic of Korea Army’s band unit, according to his agency Fantagio.

On the day of his enlistment, a photo surfaced online showing Cha standing in formation with fellow recruits. It quickly circulated on social media, with one user humorously commenting, “I lost sight of my son for a second, and Cha Eun-woo appeared right in the frame.”

Dozens of fans gathered near the entrance of the training center to see Cha off. Local police, military personnel, and Nonsan city officials were on standby to manage the crowd and ensure safety. Cha arrived in a black van and entered the enlistment screening area without a public farewell event.

In a YouTube livestream held the night before, Cha spoke candidly to fans. “It feels surreal that this day has come,” he said. “This is the shortest my hair has been since I was two or three years old. I’ll serve well and return healthy. Wishing the best for everything you’re working on.”

Cha Eun-woo debuted with Astro in 2016 and rose to stardom with hits such as “Breathless” and “Confession”. In addition to his music career, he built a strong acting portfolio with roles in dramas including My ID is Gangnam Beauty and Wonderful World.

Under South Korean law, all able-bodied men must complete between 18 and 21 months of mandatory military service.

BY JEONG HYEJEONG   [jeong.hyejeong@joongang.co.kr]