Stray Kids' Lee Know is preparing to begin his mandatory military service in early 2027, becoming the first member of the group to announce plans to fulfill his military duties.
On November 5, JYP Entertainment released an official statement confirming that Lee Know is expected to begin his military service during the first quarter of 2027, between January and March.
The agency explained that his upcoming enlistment may affect some of Stray Kids' scheduled activities during that period.
*"Lee Know is scheduled to begin fulfilling his military obligations in the first quarter of 2027,"* JYP Entertainment stated.
*"As a result, Lee Know may be unable to participate in some activities scheduled for the first quarter of 2027. However, he plans to meet STAY through various content and individual activities before his enlistment,"* the agency added.
JYP Entertainment also acknowledged that the announcement might have surprised fans and asked for their understanding.
*"We ask for the understanding of STAY who may have been surprised by this sudden announcement. Additional details that are difficult to share at this time will be announced separately at a later date,"* the statement continued.
The agency concluded by asking fans to continue supporting Lee Know and Stray Kids throughout their upcoming activities.
Born in 1998, Lee Know will be the first Stray Kids member to begin his mandatory military service.
The announcement also brings renewed attention to comments he previously made about enlistment.
During a press event for Stray Kids' mini album *THIS & THAT* in August, Lee Know openly discussed his thoughts on fulfilling his military obligations.
*"I believe military service is a natural duty. When the time comes, I will sincerely carry out the responsibility given to me,"* he said.
He also reassured fans about the group's future, explaining that although the members had not discussed their post-enlistment plans in detail, he was confident they would reunite.
*"We haven't talked in detail about what will happen after our military service, but one thing I'm sure of is that we'll come together again,"* Lee Know shared.
He added, *"Please wait just a little. I'll be back before you know it."*
With his enlistment preparations now officially announced, attention is turning to Lee Know's remaining activities before he begins his service.
JYP Entertainment has not yet revealed his exact enlistment date or further details about how Stray Kids' group activities will be arranged during his absence.
For now, Lee Know is expected to continue connecting with STAY through various content and individual projects ahead of his military service in 2027.
