South Korea's State of Emergency Sparks Concern Among K-Pop Fans for Idols in Military Service

Amid political unrest following the declaration of martial law, fans of K-pop idols currently serving in the military have expressed growing concern.

On December 3 at 10:24 PM, President Yoon Suk-yeol announced the martial law, citing threats from "North Korean communist forces" and the need to protect the nation's constitutional order. This has particularly worried fans of idols like BTS's V, Jimin, Jungkook, and RM, NCT's Jaehyun and Taeyong, MONSTA X's Kihyun, Joohoney, and Hyungwon, SEVENTEEN's Jeonghan, iKON's Bobby, and actors Kim Dong-hwi, Lee Do-hyun, Song Kang, and Kim Woo-seok—all actively serving in the military.

During a live broadcast on KBS Cool FM, MONSTA X's I.M shared his concerns about the martial law, noting its impact on his fellow members currently serving.

Under Article 77 of South Korea's Constitution, martial law can be declared during national emergencies, granting the military control over administrative and judicial affairs. Following the declaration, the Ministry of National Defense postponed all discharge dates for active-duty personnel and reinforced emergency protocols.

On December 4 at 4:00 AM, President Yoon announced the lifting of martial law after the National Assembly approved its termination, offering some relief to fans.