A major chapter has come to an end for NCT’s leader as he officially returns to civilian life and prepares to resume his music career. On the snowy morning of December 14, 2025, Lee Taeyong was discharged from the Republic of Korea Navy after successfully completing his mandatory military service.
The 30-year-old Kpop star enlisted on April 15, 2024, and served as a cultural promotion soldier with the Navy Military Band and Honor Guard Battalion. His discharge is especially meaningful as he becomes the first member of NCT’s 25-member lineup to complete military service.
While talking to fans and reporters, Taeyong reflected on the moment, saying, “I enlisted in the spring, and now I will be discharged on a snowy winter day.”
He also reassured fans by adding, “I’m preparing quickly so that we can meet again very soon. I hope you’ll look forward to it a lot.”
During his service, Taeyong was recognized for his commitment and perseverance. Despite having dealt with previous back injuries, he successfully applied for and was accepted into the prestigious Navy Military Band as a public relations singer soldier.
This allowed him to continue contributing musically while fulfilling his duties. Throughout his enlistment, he occasionally shared updates with fans and showed a healthy transformation during his time in the military.
Before beginning his military service, Taeyong gave fans a meaningful parting gift with his second solo mini album, “Tap,” which was released on February 26, 2024. The EP was clearly described as his final solo release before entering the military.
“Tap” includes six tracks, all written and co-composed by the idol himself, and highlights his signature mix of hip-hop, pop, and alternative R&B. The album reached number three on South Korea’s Circle chart and earned a Platinum certification after selling over 250,000 copies. It was his last artistic statement before he began his mandatory military service on April 15, 2024.
His solo career began earlier when he became the first NCT member to debut solo with his first mini album, “Shalala,” released on June 5, 2023.
With his return, Taeyong is expected to shift his full focus back to music and begin preparations for his comeback, both as a solo artist and as part of NCT. His discharge also marks the beginning of a new phase for the group as they enter their military era. Jaehyun, who enlisted in November 2024, along with Doyoung and Jungwoo, is currently serving.
Other Korean members, including Mark, Haechan, Jeno, and Jaemin, are expected to enlist by 2030. Meanwhile, members with foreign citizenship—such as Johnny from the United States, Yuta from Japan, Ten from Thailand, and most of the Chinese-line members—are not required to complete South Korean military service.
Taeyong’s successful return sets the tone for NCT’s future activities. He will now take part in the upcoming releases and the NCT U comeback, scheduled for 2026.
