EXO Xiumin's Advice For Kai About Military Service Is A Much-Needed Reminder

A K-Pop idol’s career is filled with trials and triumphs that fans experience alongside them. One of the most challenging moments for boy group stans, in particular, is sending off idols to the military.

In May 2019, Xiumin became the first EXO member to enlist in the military. Xiumin’s members sent him off with loving, supportive messages, wishing him happiness and good health.

Aren’t you handsome? Take care of yourself, don’t get hurt, and make sure not to skip any meals. Remembere to apply skincare and to take all your health supplements. Eat well, remember that taking care of your health is what is most important. Hyung, I love you. I’m really gonne miss you.

– Kai

Following Xiumin’s enlistment, D.O, Suho, Chen, Chanyeol, and Baekhyun also enlisted and completed their military service. Based on age, Kai was expected to be the next EXO member to enlist, followed by maknae Sehun, but his sudden enlistment announcement took fans, and Kai himself, by surprise.

Hello, this is SM Entertainment.

We are delivering sudden news regarding Kai’s enlistment date.

Although Kai had been preparing for EXO’s comeback later this year, due to recent changes in the law regarding military enlistment, Kai will be enlisting on May 11 to complete his basic training, after which he will begin working as a social worker.

To respect Kai’s wishes to quietly enlist, we are not revealing the place and time at which he will enlist. We also ask that fans understand that any scheduled events on that day will be canceled.

We will reveal details regarding EXO’s upcoming album as they are confirmed.

Thank you.

— SM Entertainment

Although the timing might not be ideal, EXO-Ls are encouraging fellow fans to stay positive.

Jongin was nothing but positive about the enlistment, he didn’t say anything bad, it was so positive the whole time and kept saying he’s ok and that we shouldn’t be sad too.

— Sgrissi 🐑 (@BasicallyMyeon) May 4, 2023

🐻: I only knew this today too so pls understand me tomorrow I will be smiling again!

Jongin i'll trust you! keep smiling and be happy 🥹💔

KAI WE WILL WAIT FOR YOU #카이 #KAI @weareoneEXO pic.twitter.com/HllzI6pFZ5

— duyung ୧⍤⃝ 🍒📌 (@llloooyeebabe) May 3, 2023

Xiumin’s past advice for Kai is also bringing much-needed comfort and reassurance during this time. Back in 2020, six days after Xiumin was discharged, Xiumin and Kai chatted about military service during a live broadcast.

The idea of serving in the military is daunting, but Xiumin took it all in stride. “Military service isn’t as bad as you think,” he said. In fact, it offered him great new experiences. “As I look back, I got to meet so many people, and experience a lot, and learn a lot.”

Although Kai felt nervous hearing this, plenty of time has passed since then. He now has not one but six members who have experienced military life to look to.

Kai was initially overwhelmed by the news of his enlistment, but he is now looking forward to spending time with EXO-L before the next exciting chapter of his life begins. He will enlist on May 11.