'Listen to the trusted' MONSTA X member Kihyun has returned to fans after fulfilling his defense duties.
According to his agency, Starship Entertainment, Kihyun completed his military service of 1 year and 6 months and was discharged today (21st) before the end of his term. A separate discharge ceremony was not held.
Kihyun, who entered the training center on Aug. 22, 2023, received basic military training and has been serving diligently as an active-duty soldier in the army. With this, Kihyun has become the fourth MONSTA X member to complete military service, following Shownu, Minhyuk, and Jooheon.
Kihyun expressed his feelings through Starship Entertainment, saying, "Our Monbebe (official fan club name)! I really missed you. I hope you weren't going anywhere else, and although it was not a short time, I appreciate your waiting. I will work hard to show the wonderful images that Monbebe has wished for. I love you, Monbebe!"
He added, "I think I was able to go comfortably because there are active members. I am grateful to the members as well. I've been waiting for the day when all six of us can gather after my military hiatus, and it seems like it won't be long now, so I'm really looking forward to the future."
On the day of his discharge, Kihyun is expected to hold a live broadcast to celebrate his discharge at 6 p.m. through the official MONSTA X YouTube channel. He will greet the fans who have been waiting for him for a long time and share enjoyable moments with Monbebe.
As the main vocalist of MONSTA X, Kihyun has boasted unwavering live skills amidst his unique intense performances since his debut, earning him the title of 'K-pop vocal god' and the pride of MONSTA X and Monbebe. Kihyun has showcased his broad musical capabilities through dramas, such as 'Law School' and 'Police Station Next to Fire Station,' and the OST for the webtoon 'End of the World Apple Blossom Academy.' In 2022, he was recognized for his true worth as a 'solo artist' after releasing his first solo single 'Voyager' and mini-album 'Youth' seven years after his debut.
Known for his love for fans, Kihyun, who is affectionately called 'Monsujong X (MONSTA X + Choi Soo-jong)', stands out for his unique love for fans within the team. Just before his enlistment, he held an exhibition to share precious memories with fans, and during his military service, he posted a special cover video filmed just before his enlistment to commemorate the 9th anniversary of the official fan club, bringing great emotion to fans. With Kihyun's discharge, expectations for MONSTA X's full group activities have surged, and there is growing anticipation for Kihyun's journey as he creates new memories with Monbebe through various activities.
Meanwhile, Kihyun is scheduled to hold a live broadcast to celebrate his discharge and meet fans through the official MONSTA X YouTube channel at 6 p.m. on the 21st.
[OSEN = Reporter Jang Woo-young]