Popular singer-actor Rowoon, known for his roles in hit K-dramas and as a former member of SF9, has officially postponed his military enlistment following the results of his pre-enlistment physical examination.
What was originally expected to be a routine enlistment on July 21, 2025, has now turned into an unexpected delay after the Military Manpower Administration issued him a Grade 7 re-examination notice, requiring further medical evaluation.
Initial Enlistment Plans and Sudden Delay
On July 17, Rowoon’s agency, FNC Entertainment, released a formal statement to update fans and the public regarding his revised enlistment status.
The actor was slated to begin his mandatory military service as an active-duty soldier, a standard route for healthy South Korean males fulfilling national duty.
However, new procedures introduced this July by the Military Manpower Administration now require all conscripts to undergo a pre-enlistment physical evaluation two weeks prior to enlistment.
During Rowoon’s assessment, he was unexpectedly issued a Grade 7, a classification that typically signals that the conscript is not yet eligible for military service due to uncertain medical conditions or the need for additional tests.
As a result, his enlistment has been delayed indefinitely pending a reassessment, which is currently scheduled for early August 2025.
Also Read: Is Rowoon’s Military Enlistment in Limbo? Fans Concerned After Sudden Delay
Agency Statement Clarifies the Situation
FNC Entertainment provided a candid explanation while respecting Rowoon’s privacy, stating:
“Rowoon was originally scheduled to enlist as an active-duty soldier on July 21.
However, starting this July, the Military Manpower Administration has been conducting pre-enlistment physical examinations two weeks prior to enlistment for all conscripts.
During this examination, Rowoon received a Grade 7 re-examination notice.”
The agency emphasized that Rowoon has already filed an appeal and is actively working toward a reassessment to clarify his physical eligibility for military duty. They noted:
“He hopes to confirm that there are no issues with fulfilling his mandatory service and to enlist as an active-duty soldier as soon as possible.”
However, FNC also noted that due to the personal and sensitive nature of the medical results, they are unable to disclose specific details regarding the reason behind the re-evaluation, requesting understanding from fans and the public.
What Does a Grade 7 Mean?
In the context of South Korea’s military service system, a Grade 7 result from a physical exam generally indicates that the applicant’s medical condition is unclear or requires further evaluation.
This does not necessarily mean disqualification. It may include issues that are temporary, borderline, or that require a second expert opinion or more tests before a final enlistment grade can be assigned.
The grading system in South Korea ranges from Grade 1 (fit for active duty) to Grade 6 (unfit for service due to serious health issues).
Grade 7 is an interim status, triggering a mandatory re-examination within a few weeks or months.
Based on the result of this reassessment, Rowoon could be cleared for active duty, alternative service, or exempted, depending on the medical findings.
Rowoon’s Commitment to Serve
Despite the delay, both Rowoon and his agency have made it clear that he remains committed to fulfilling his military obligations.
His proactive appeal for reassessment reflects his desire to clear any uncertainty and move forward with enlistment as soon as medically and administratively possible.
This delay comes at a time when Rowoon has been steadily building a strong reputation as both a versatile actor and a solo entertainer, following his departure from SF9 to focus on his acting career.
He has starred in several successful dramas, gaining acclaim for both his visual presence and his growing acting range.
Public Response and Fan Support
News of the enlistment delay has sparked a wave of public curiosity and concern, but fans have largely responded with support and understanding, appreciating the agency’s transparency and Rowoon’s intent to fulfill his duties honorably.
On social media platforms and fan forums, many have left messages encouraging him to prioritize his health, no matter the final outcome of the reassessment.
Fans have also praised his sense of responsibility, noting that his willingness to appeal for reevaluation reflects his commitment to national duty.
What’s Next?
All eyes will now be on the upcoming August reassessment, which will determine Rowoon’s final enlistment grade and ultimately his military path—whether as an active-duty soldier, a reservist, or under an alternative service program.
Until then, his enlistment remains on hold, and further updates are expected once the new evaluation is complete.
FNC Entertainment has promised to keep fans informed of any developments and reiterated that Rowoon’s health and privacy remain a top priority.
As the reassessment approaches, the entertainment industry and his loyal fanbase continue to watch with interest, offering both concern and support for a rising star navigating one of South Korea’s most important civic duties.
