Explore the complete EXO military enlistment and discharge timeline. Get all updates on members like Xiumin, D.O., Suho, Baekhyun, Chanyeol, Kai, Chen, Sehun, and Lay in one detailed 2025 guide.
Introduction: EXO’s Journey Through Military Service
Since their debut in 2012, EXO has reigned as one of K-pop’s most legendary groups. With members excelling in music, acting, and variety, EXO’s influence transcends generations.
However, like every Korean male citizen, the group faced a natural pause — mandatory military enlistment.
Between 2019 and 2025, all Korean EXO members gradually enlisted and completed their duties, one after another. Their dedication, humility, and brotherhood turned this phase into a defining chapter of EXO’s story.
This article provides a complete EXO military enlistment and discharge timeline, highlighting each member’s service journey and what’s next for EXO in 2025.
Why Military Enlistment Matters in K-pop Culture
In South Korea, military service is mandatory for men aged 18–28. For idols, this often means stepping away from fame at their peak.
For EXO, enlistments symbolized duty, maturity, and transformation — both individually and as a group.
Fans, known as EXO-Ls, patiently supported each member, turning waiting periods into moments of unity. The experience deepened the bond between EXO and their fandom.
Overview: EXO’s Enlistment Timeline at a Glance
Here’s a quick summary of when each EXO member enlisted and was discharged:
| Member | Enlistment Date | Discharge Date | Status (as of 2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiumin | May 7, 2019 | Dec 6, 2020 | Active |
| D.O. | July 1, 2019 | Jan 25, 2021 | Active |
| Suho | May 14, 2020 | Feb 13, 2022 | Active |
| Chen | Oct 26, 2020 | Apr 25, 2022 | Active |
| Chanyeol | Mar 29, 2021 | Sept 28, 2022 | Active |
| Baekhyun | May 6, 2021 | Feb 5, 2023 | Active |
| Kai | May 11, 2023 | Expected Feb 2025 | Serving |
| Sehun | Dec 21, 2023 | Expected Sept 2025 | Serving |
| Lay Zhang | Not required (Chinese citizen) | — | Active in China |
Xiumin: The First Member to Enlist and the First to Return
Xiumin’s Enlistment Details and Service Role
As the eldest member, Xiumin (Kim Minseok) was the first to begin service on May 7, 2019.
He joined the active-duty army and even performed in military musicals, including Return: The Promise of the Day.
Discharge and Post-Military Activities
He was discharged on December 6, 2020, and immediately reconnected with fans through EXO-CBX and solo projects. His smooth transition set a strong example for other members to follow.
D.O. (Kyungsoo): Quietly Serving with Dedication
D.O.’s Decision to Enlist Early
D.O. surprised fans by enlisting earlier than expected on July 1, 2019, shortly after Xiumin. His choice reflected deep responsibility and foresight, ensuring he could return sooner for group activities.
His Discharge and Return to Acting and Music
Discharged on January 25, 2021, D.O. resumed acting in The Moon and released his first solo mini-album Empathy, proving his artistic versatility.
Suho: The Leader Who Enlisted During EXO’s Transition Era
Suho’s Military Timeline and Service Highlights
Suho enlisted on May 14, 2020, serving as a social service worker. Despite the pandemic, he frequently wrote heartfelt letters to fans, showing leadership even during his absence.
How Suho Reconnected with EXO-Ls After Service
After his February 13, 2022 discharge, Suho released Grey Suit — a reflective album symbolizing renewal and unity. His comeback embodied EXO’s emotional depth.
Chen: Balancing Fatherhood, Music, and Military Duty
Chen’s Enlistment Amid Public Scrutiny
In October 2020, Chen announced his enlistment shortly after revealing his marriage and fatherhood — surprising fans but earning respect for his honesty.
Discharge and Comeback as a Solo Artist
Chen completed service on April 25, 2022. His solo music, including Last Scene, showcased his maturity and emotional depth.
Baekhyun: Serving During EXO’s Hiatus Period
His Enlistment Process and Alternative Service
Baekhyun enlisted on May 6, 2021, as a public service worker due to health issues related to hypothyroidism.
Despite limitations, he communicated often with fans through letters and bubble updates.
Discharge Celebration and Musical Return
After being discharged on February 5, 2023, Baekhyun resumed activities with EXO’s “EXIST” album and solo concerts. His return reignited EXO’s group energy.
Chanyeol: The Rapper-Soldier Who Shined in Uniform
Enlistment Timeline and Army Achievements
Chanyeol enlisted on March 29, 2021, and completed service on September 28, 2022. He gained recognition as an exemplary soldier, performing in army events and showing unwavering discipline.
Chanyeol’s Discharge and Post-Service Projects
After discharge, Chanyeol returned with film projects and music releases, reflecting both maturity and artistic confidence.
Kai: The Unexpected Enlistment That Shocked EXO-Ls
Kai’s Sudden Draft Notice and Reaction
Kai’s enlistment on May 11, 2023, came unexpectedly, as fans were anticipating EXO’s comeback. His emotional livestream revealed his gratitude and sadness, touching millions.
Current Military Status (2025 Update)
As of November 2025, Kai continues his service as a social service worker and is expected to complete duties by February 2025. Fans await his full comeback eagerly.
Sehun: The Youngest Member’s Service Update
Enlistment Schedule and Duties
Sehun enlisted on December 21, 2023, serving as a social worker. His enlistment completed the group’s mandatory service lineup.
Predicted Discharge Date and Group Impact
Sehun’s expected discharge in September 2025 will mark the end of EXO’s military era. Fans anticipate a massive group reunion afterward.
Lay Zhang: The Chinese Member’s Situation
Why Lay Did Not Enlist Under Korean Law
As a Chinese citizen, Lay Zhang is not subject to South Korean military law. He continued his activities in China while supporting EXO’s enlistments.
His Support for EXO Members During Enlistments
Lay consistently sent public messages of encouragement and participated in group anniversaries remotely, maintaining unity across borders.
Complete EXO Military Service Timeline Chart (2025 Update)
| Member | Enlistment | Discharge | Service Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiumin | May 7, 2019 | Dec 6, 2020 | Active Duty |
| D.O. | Jul 1, 2019 | Jan 25, 2021 | Active Duty |
| Suho | May 14, 2020 | Feb 13, 2022 | Public Service |
| Chen | Oct 26, 2020 | Apr 25, 2022 | Active Duty |
| Chanyeol | Mar 29, 2021 | Sept 28, 2022 | Active Duty |
| Baekhyun | May 6, 2021 | Feb 5, 2023 | Public Service |
| Kai | May 11, 2023 | Feb 2025 (expected) | Public Service |
| Sehun | Dec 21, 2023 | Sept 2025 (expected) | Public Service |
| Lay | Not required | — | N/A |
How EXO Maintained Relevance During Enlistments
Even while members served, EXO’s brand stayed alive through:
- Sub-units like EXO-CBX and EXO-SC
- Solo releases from Suho, Baekhyun, and Kai
- Acting projects featuring D.O., Chanyeol, and Sehun
- EXO’s reality shows and anniversary messages
Their strong fan loyalty and diverse talents ensured EXO remained a top-tier group despite limited promotions.
The Impact of Military Service on EXO’s Future Comebacks
With nearly all members completing service, 2025–2026 will mark EXO’s true comeback era. Fans expect powerful music symbolizing renewal and maturity, echoing the group’s shared journey through service and sacrifice.
What EXO’s Full Group Activities Look Like After 2025
After Sehun and Kai’s discharge, EXO will likely return as a full 8-member group, combining solo strengths with their classic harmony.
Rumors suggest SM Entertainment is planning a grand reunion concert and new album for late 2025.
FAQs About EXO’s Military Enlistment and Discharge Dates
1. Who was the first EXO member to enlist?
Xiumin enlisted first on May 7, 2019.
2. Who was the first to be discharged?
Also Xiumin — he completed service in December 2020.
3. Who is still serving in the military (2025)?
Kai and Sehun are currently serving, expected to return by September 2025.
4. Did Lay serve in the Korean military?
No. Lay is a Chinese citizen and not required to enlist.
5. When will EXO be fully reunited?
After Sehun’s discharge in September 2025, EXO will be fully active again.
6. Did military service affect EXO’s popularity?
Not at all — their fandom remained strong, and solo work kept their name thriving.
Conclusion: The Brotherhood That Withstood Time and Duty
The EXO military enlistment and discharge timeline isn’t just a list of dates — it’s a story of loyalty, growth, and enduring brotherhood.
Each member fulfilled his duty with honor, proving that fame never overshadowed responsibility.
As 2025 marks the end of EXO’s military chapter, the group is ready to rise stronger than ever — reunited, refreshed, and ready to create new history for EXO-Ls around the world. 💫
External Source: Soompi – EXO Military Service Updates
