Jinjin, the main leader and rapper of the famous K-Pop Astro group, was officially exempted by the mandatory military service of South Korea due to health issues, his agency announced this week.
Fantagio, Astro’s Management Company, has released a declaration that confirms that Jinjin, whose real name is Park Jin-Woo, will not enlist after a recent medical evaluation by the military administration. The agency explained that Jinjin was diagnosed with an autoimmune condition which, although manageable in daily life, requires ongoing medical care and regular hospital visits.
“Jinjin’s health conditions make him difficult to participate in the municipal environment and physically demanding requested by military service,” said Fantagio. “We ask for your understanding and continuous support while Jinjin focuses on his health and future activities”.
The specific nature of Jinjin’s autoimmune condition has not been disclosed, in accordance with privacy considerations. The agency stressed that the daily life of idol and professional activities can continue as usual, but the unpredictable nature of its illness and the need for constant medical supervision have led to its exemption.
Jinjin, 29, made his debut with Astro in 2016 and quickly became in relief as the leader, rapper and songwriter of the group. The news of his exemption comes when other members of Astro, including CHA EUN-Woo, are preparing or are currently using their military duties.
Fans, known as Aroha, expressed conflicting emotions: the relief that Jinjin’s health is priority, but concern for the challenges he has to face. Many have climbed on social media to share support messages, using hashtags such as #staystrongjinjin and #Stro.
Fantagio concluded his announcement by thanking fans for their understanding and promising to provide updates on Jinjin’s activities and health, if necessary.
South Korea requires all men skilled to serve in the army for about 18-21 months, with exemptions granted only for specific medical or personal circumstances.
Jinjin will continue his activities with Astro and pursue solo projects as he manages his health.
The next Astro member to start his military service is Chage Eun-Woo: accepted in the military gang of the Army of the Republic of Korea and will begin his mandatory military service on July 28, 2025.
